Crampons are ancient tools that were originally worn by early inhabitants of the Caucasus more than 2,000 years ago. Over the years, crampon design has gone from simple iron spiked plates to a four-point crampon in the 19th century to 10-point crampon in the early 1900s to 12-point crampons in the mid 1930s. Today, many crampons still carry the 12-point desi… read more
Crampons are an amazing technology that enables mountaineers and ice climbers to reach remote peaks and scale vertical ice pitches. The design of crampons has improved over the decades, from a simple four point design to today's standard 12 point design. There are three types of crampons used today for mountaineering and ice climbing. Which kind you choose d… read more
Once you've used your crampons several times, they can get worn down. Using your crampons on mixed terrain with rocks, dirt and ice can wear down the original sharpness of your points. Sharpening your points can help keep your points even, ready for climbing and prolong use. Sharpening is a simple process that anyone can do at home with a hand file. read more
Crampons are essentially metal spikes on a frame that may be completely rigid or semi-flexible. The most common crampon configuration has 12 spikes or points, 10 of them facing down, spaced around the foot, and two pointed forward. You either strap or buckle crampons on over your boots to provide traction and grip on ice or hard-packed snow. Do not confuse c… read more
Crampons are devices that attach to the bottom of a shoe to gain more traction in snow and icy conditions. Crampons are used in a variety of sports such as ice climbing, winter hiking and mountaineering. read more
Mountaineering is one of the most challenging and rewarding of backcountry experiences. The inhospitable conditions, difficult terrain and sheer altitude of the mountain environment make summiting a peak a great personal achievement.… read more
The practice of climbing on rock, ice and sometimes snow on the same route is known as mixed climbing. Alpinists often encounter conditions on peaks that call for both rock and ice climbing skills, sometimes within the same pitch. This… read more
If you are a person who likes to backpack and also has an interest in mountaineering, then you may be deciding between hiking and mountaineering boots for a trip that includes a little of both. There are several differences to be consi… read more
Over the past few decades, changes in outdoor equipment have made it possible to travel safely to countless destinations. The summits of peaks like Mount Rainier and Mount Whitney were once reached by only a few climbers. Today, hundre… read more
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People use snowshoes mainly for backcountry exploration, and hiking through deep snow and ice covered regions. Proper snowshoes are needed to be able to pass through powder and packed snow without falling through or getting hung up on… read more
The Osprey Luna 85 backpack is a women's-specific pack designed for multiday backpacking trips. Weighing 6 lbs. 13 oz. with a capacity of 85 liters or 5,100 cubic inches, you will have plenty of room to carry everything you need. The b… read more
Ice climbing is a great way to enjoy the winter season, but it also requires some very specific gear. There is plenty of climbing gear that you can re-purpose if you are already a rock climber, but this list is designed to give you the… read more
The OR Expedition Gaiters are designed for strenuous mountaineering conditions and epic ice climbing adventures. At only 12.1 ounces for the pair, they add extra protection over your boots and pants without a lot of extra weight. Const… read more
Snowshoeing is a fun and exciting way to get around in the snow. Once made out of wood, animal hide and sinew, modern snowshoes are made from an array of materials that have made them lighter and stronger. read more
While snowshoeing is commonly done with pack books like Sorels, or with hiking boots, it is possible to use ski boots, especially more flexible ski boots such as telemark boots, with snowshoes. Using alpine boots can also be done, and… read more
You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
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