Snowshoes or Crampons?

If there is mountain equipment associated with snow, it consists of skis, snowshoes, crampons and ice ax. But what do we use on snowy terrain, snowshoes or crampons?

Difference between crampons and snowshoes

Crampons

The crampons go in complement with the ice ax. They are safety materials for your snowy mountain routes. The use of crampons is associated with steep slopes, hard snow or ice.

Some fundamental recommendations if you are going to use crampons are:

-Your crampons must adapt to your boot, so you should pay attention to the type of fixation (straps, semi-automatic or automatic)

-To avoid the accumulation and caking of snow on the sole of the foot, get some good antibots

-Adjust the straps to your boots well. Do it before you find yourself in a dangerous area

-For greater stability use the ice ax

Snow rackets or snowshoes

It is important to note that snowshoes are only suitable for moderate slopes and soft or powder snow. Some snowshoes have metal tips to provide an anti-slip system for icy areas. It is suitable for use with walking sticks.

On slopes of 30 degrees or more, the rackets can be not very functional.

Some fundamental recommendations if you are going to use snowshoes are:

-Your rackets must adapt to your boot, so you should pay attention to the type of attachment (strap or automatic racket)

-Adjust them well to your boot

Remember that, whatever material you choose, you must have knowledge of snow routes and follow the relevant safety recommendations for your route. Always check the weather forecast and don’t go alone.

For more information, here is our blog article on mountain safety provided by FEDME.