WHICH BOOTS FOR WHICH CRAMPONS?

C1 CRAMPONS are for walking. They have eight to 10 points and no front points. Designed for B1 boots, they can be fitted to B2s and B3s, although they’re not ideal for steeper terrain.

B1 BOOTS are aimed more at walking and are generally 3-4 or 4-season boots. They are insulated and have stiffened flexible soles. If you want to walk in winter but aren’t intent on reaching the summits, these could be more comfortable and affordable than B2 or B3 boots.

C2 CRAMPONS are ideal for mountaineering. They usually have 12 points and can be fitted to B3 or B2 boots, but usually flex to match a B2.

B2 BOOTS are stiff but still allow a little flex for walking. They tend to be 4-season or mountaineering boots and are ideal for summer alpine, winter UK mountaineering and tougher winter walking.

C3 CRAMPONS are often rigid with 12 or more points and can only safely be fitted to B3 winter boots. More than the average hill walker needs.

B3 BOOTS are technical mountaineering boots for steep climbing that are highly insulated with rigid soles. They are more than what is required for hillwalking.