[alpinist75]

I’ve seen several videos from experienced Alpinists like Steve, Colin Haley, Kyle Dempster, etc wrapping their crampons (in a coat, Tyvek, bubble wrap, etc) and loading them inside their pack for the approach. Is there an advantage to this? Thanks

Topic

[Steve House]

Steve House on March 16, 2019 at 10:46 am #18485

The biggest advantage to me is the location of the weight. Crampons are pretty heavy and placing them on top of my pack, near my back makes for a much nicer carry. You can experiment; pack them close-inside and then pack than far away from my center of gravity. You can feel the difference.

A couple more advantages in no particular order:
I like to have a ‘clean pack’ nothing on the outside whenever possible. This has numerous advantages. I will even carry my ice tools in my hand or, if I have the space, I’ll put my ice tools inside my pack as well. The only time I use the ice axe carry straps on the outside is when I will need the ice tools really soon or the pack is just really full.

It protects other people and objects from the sharp points. Especially important in a cable car or your friend’s new car.

Cheers,
Steve

[alpinist75]

alpinist75 on March 16, 2019 at 10:51 am #18486

Have you had any problems with damaging your gear or pack? Thanks for the knowledge dump. I’m going to try tools and crampons inside the pack from now on.

[alpinist75]

alpinist75 on March 16, 2019 at 10:53 am #18489

And that is a lot of weight. I always carefully pack my load with the weight next to my back … then put the heaviest items (tools and crampons) the furthest possible from my back. Haha

[Anonymous]

Anonymous on March 16, 2019 at 4:47 pm #18527

My 2 cents (not new) is I put my crampons in one of those USPS mailing bags (not sure the exactly material but Tyvek-like) since they’re free and widely available. I then put it (fits for me) inside my helmet and usually something like gloves or a hat can fill the rest of the space to keep things from rattling. I’m yet to have equipment damage this way (though I don’t have years of experience).

[Steve House]

Steve House on March 19, 2019 at 9:24 am #18621

Honestly, I most often use a piece of clothing.

I don’t like to carry anything that has only one purpose.

The clothing doesn’t really get wet because if it’s cold enough to use crampons, the snow/ice can be brushed off. I’ve also used gloves (one on each side) in a sandwich.

I do usually use a regular crampon bag for actual travel. But when it comes time to go in the pack, i keep it as simple as possible.

Check out this video for more:

Steve House Packing for an Overnight Alpine Climb