Ski Crampons

Hi H.W.Stockman

Hi,

Basically ski crampons are meant to be used as an adjunct to skins,
on breakable crust that has a smooth icy surface that denies grip to
skins, yet is not thick enough to permit walking. It can be used in a
number of other ways, subject to experience.

Keep in mind that generally they are made out of aluminium, bend
easily and cannot penetrate hard ice, something better left to walking
crampons and ice axe. Sometimes one can get away with using ski
crampons on hard frozen snow, without skins, but in such circumstances
they have the disconcerting habit of every now and then getting stuck
and throwing one off balance.

All in all, I prefer not to use them and leave them behind on most
tours (heavy junk), but readily admit that under certain circumstances
they are very handy indeed.

Cheers and Compliments of the Season to All
Craig