Gear Review: Black Diamond Sabretooth Clip Crampon

Because they’re low-profile, the razor-sharp underfoot points on this do-everything crampon won’t snag on rocks when you’re hiking over mixed terrain. But the spiky front and V-shaped second points held like nails on icy vertical sections of Mt. Colden’s Trap Dyke in New York. The stainless steel construction is lighter than its chromoly predecessor, stays sharper longer, and didn’t rust when one tester left these crampons wet in her pack for two days.

Rubberized and removable antiballing plates prevent snow buildup underfoot. And these crampons go on easy and stay on: The Clip version (pictured) has a low-profile heel bail and a flexible forefoot strap (for boots with no toe welt); the Pro model adds a front bail for fully crampon-compatible boots. $170; 2 lbs. 2 oz.; bdel.com