Join ACMG guide Brian Shannon as he discusses footwear and crampon pairings for summer alpine climbing objectives.
Want to learn more? Read our comprehensive article on Mountain Footwear and Crampon Pairings. This detailed article will explore the factors to consider when choosing footwear and how to pair it with suitable crampons.
With a wide range of footwear options, from fast and light shoes to rigid mountaineering boots and matching crampons, Brian walks us through several pairing options to suit different objectives.
The Scarpa Crux with Black Diamond Distance Spikes
A classic approach shoe suited for rock climbing and scrambling, paired with a super lightweight, low-profile spike/crampon system. This pairing is ideal for routes dominated by rock climbing, with small patches of snow or ice on approaches or descents. Add the Distance Gaiter from Black Diamond for increased protection from snow and water.
The La Sportiva TX4 Mid with Petzl Leopard
Beefier than a regular approach shoe and ideal for carrying loads or travelling through scree or talus fields, this shoe is paired with Petzl’s lightweight aluminum crampon. This pairing is lightweight and perfect for longer approaches followed by climbing objectives with only simple snow crossings and basic glaciated terrain. Add the Talus Gaiter from Black Diamond to keep your feet drier.
The Scarpa Zodiac Tech with Petzl Irvis Hybrid
A full mountaineering boot that offers more support and waterproofing than approach shoes, paired with a lightweight half-aluminum, half-steel crampon that performs better in steep snow and ice, as well as the occasional rock move or front-pointing technique. This setup is suited for a wide range of classic, bigger mountain objectives on the coast and in the Rockies.
The Scarpa Ribelle Tech with Petzl Sarken
A full technical mountaineering boot for more serious objectives, paired with a steel crampon. This pairing is rigid, warm, and dry, with vertical front points for more technical ice and rock.
Build your own crampon and boot combination
When pairing a crampon with a shoe or boot, match the flexibility of the crampon with the softness of the boot/shoe. As the terrain becomes steeper and more technically challenging, a rigid boot will perform better with a more rigid crampon attached.
Drop by the store to see all our boot and crampon options. If you are looking for private instruction or guiding, you can contact Brian at www.brianshannonguiding.com.
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