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Boot and crampon matcher
Pick the B rating of your boots. The matcher shows which crampon ratings suit them, how each one attaches and what the pairing is typically used for.
In short
B0 boots are not for crampons. B1 takes C1 only. B2 takes C1 or C2. B3 takes C1, C2 or C3. A crampon should never be stiffer than the boot.
Match your boots
B1: Stiffened boot
Stiffened sole, no welts. Winter hill walking on snowy paths and easy slopes.
C1Suits
Flexible crampon
Strap bindings over the toe and round the ankle.
Typical use: winter walking
C2Not suited
Semi-rigid crampon
Semi-automatic: toe strap or cradle with a heel clip.
Typical use: winter mountaineering
C3Not suited
Rigid crampon
Automatic step-in: toe bail with a heel clip.
Typical use: technical climbing
Ratings are a retailer and maker convention, not a formal standard. Check the boot maker's crampon guidance.
The B and C ratings at a glance
| Boot | What it is | Crampons |
|---|---|---|
| B0 | Flexible walking boot | None |
| B1 | Stiffened boot | C1 |
| B2 | Stiff boot with heel welt | C1 or C2 |
| B3 | Fully rigid boot, toe and heel welts | C1, C2 or C3 |