Crampons for hiking in Australia’s alpine regions

Crampons are essential gear for hiking in Australia’s alpine regions, especially during the winter months. Crampons are specialised traction devices worn on footwear, typically used for walking on snow and ice. They are commonly employed in mountaineering, ice climbing, glacier travel, and winter hiking, preventing slips and falls that could lead to serious injury.

Types of crampons

There are two main types of crampons: mountaineering crampons and microspikes. Mountaineering crampons are designed for technical climbing and alpine mountaineering. They have long, sharp spikes that are ideal for hard ice and steep terrain. Microspikes, on the other hand, are designed for hiking on snow and ice. They have shorter spikes that are less aggressive than mountaineering crampons, but they are still effective for providing traction on moderate terrain.

When to use crampons

You should always carry crampons with you when hiking in Australia’s alpine regions, even if you are not planning on doing any technical climbing. The weather in the mountains can change quickly, and you may find yourself on snow or ice unexpectedly. It is better to be prepared than to be caught off guard.

Here’s some general guidelines for when to use crampons:

Icy or Snowy Terrain: Use crampons when walking on icy or snowy terrain where regular footwear lacks traction. Crampons are particularly useful on frozen surfaces, steep slopes, and hard-packed snow.
Steep Inclines: When navigating steep slopes or inclines covered in ice or hard-packed snow, crampons provide added stability and prevent slipping.
Glacier Travel: Crampons are essential for glacier travel, where the surface can be icy and crevasses may be present. They help you traverse uneven and slippery glacier terrain safely.
Ice Climbing: Crampons are a crucial tool for ice climbers. They provide the necessary grip on vertical or near-vertical ice surfaces. Specialised ice climbing crampons have front points designed for penetrating ice.
Mixed Terrain: If your route involves a mix of snow, ice, and rock, and the snow or ice sections are significant, wearing crampons can enhance your overall safety and efficiency.
Alpine Climbing: In alpine environments where conditions can vary, carrying crampons and using them when necessary is a prudent choice.
Winter Mountaineering: Crampons are commonly used in winter mountaineering when traveling over snow-covered or icy terrain at higher altitudes.
Hardened Snow: When the snow has hardened due to temperature changes or melting and refreezing, crampons can be essential for maintaining traction.

How to use crampons

To use crampons, you will need to attach them to your hiking boots. There are two main types of crampon attachments: strap-on and step-in. Strap-on crampons are more affordable and easier to use, but they are not as secure as step-in crampons. Step-in crampons are more expensive and difficult to use, but they provide a more secure fit.

Once you have attached your crampons to your boots, you are ready to start hiking. When walking on snow or ice, be sure to take short, slow steps and plant your feet firmly on the ground. Be careful not to kick your crampons into other hikers or yourself.

Safety tips for using crampons

Always prioritise safety. If the terrain is uncertain, and there’s a risk of slipping or falling, it’s better to use crampons for added stability.
Always wear crampons with a helmet and ice axe.
Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for hidden hazards.
Take breaks often to avoid fatigue.
Do not attempt to climb anything that is too steep or icy for your crampons.

Training and experience

Ensure that your crampons fit securely on your footwear. A proper fit is crucial for effective use and safety. Adequate training and experience are important when using crampons, especially in more technical terrain. Understanding proper technique and practicing with them in a controlled environment can enhance your safety and efficiency. Remember that using crampons requires a certain level of skill and experience. If you’re new to crampons or uncertain about the conditions, consider seeking guidance from experienced climbers or mountaineers.

Crampons are an essential piece of gear for hiking in Australia’s alpine regions. They can help you to stay safe and enjoy yourhike.