国产吃瓜黑料

GET MORE WITH OUTSIDE+

Enjoy 35% off GOES, your essential outdoor guide

UPGRADE TODAY

Black Diamond’s Contact Strap crampons
Contact Strap Crampons

Can I use crampons on trail-runners for day-summit attempts?

How do you feel about trail-runners versus hiking boots for light backpacking and day summits? Also, can you put crampons on trail-runners if you encounter snow? Phong Seattle, Washington

Published: 
Black Diamond’s Contact Strap crampons

New perk: Easily find new routes and hidden gems, upcoming running events, and more near you. Your weekly Local Running Newsletter has everything you need to lace up! .

You know, it really depends on the individual. Speaking broadly, I much prefer to see people in full-coverage, ankle-height footwear. I simply believe the support is better, the foot protection (especially in the sole) is better, and the traction is better. Trail-runners are聟trail-runners聴running shoes in drag. Compared with hiking boots, they聮re shorter, lighter, and have softer midsoles.

Black Diamond’s Contact Strap crampons

Black Diamond’s Contact Strap crampons Contact Strap Crampons

That said, plenty of people hike in trail-runners and do just fine. On good trails, with light loads, I聮d let the health of your ankles be your guide.

And sure, you can put crampons on trail-runners. What you need is a set of crampons with somewhat traditional straps. 聮s Universal XLC 490 crampons ($125) are moderately aggressive 12-point crampons with a strap system that allows them to fit over nearly any kind of footwear. They聮re also very lightweight, so they won聮t feel too clunky on trail-runners. 聮s Contact Strap crampons ($120) are nearly identical.

For slippery but non-technical snow, ice, or even steep grass, makes what聮s called an 聯instep” crampon聴think, crampons minus the toe points. The Crab 6 ($75) is a light six-point crampon that also will fit over most any shoe.

The 2008 Summer 国产吃瓜黑料 Buyer聮s Guide is now online. From riding to trail-running to camping, get reviews of nearly 400 gear must-haves.

Popular on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online