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welcome!Sunday, 25 july 2003  
 
:Buyers guide · Flex & torsion
 

Flex and torsion are essential characteristics of a boot, different specifications of the midsole result in different essential characteristics of the boot depending upon its potential end use.
For example a mountain boot intended to be used with crampons will have a technical stiffness grade which means no midsole longitudinal flex and virtually no torsional flex.
BECK® feature four different grades of flex and torsion.


Grading system crampon compatibility
devised by Brian Hall equipment consultant and British Mountain Guide

The grading system is based on simplicity, and is designed as a guide to trained and experienced retail staff.
Boots are graded from B:0 to B:3 and crampons from C:1 to C:3. For example, B:1 boots are compatible to C:1 crampons only.


SOFT B:0

Not recommended for crampons.
Most walking boots are designed to flex for comfort and do not have sufficient lateral and longitudinal rigidity in their midsole. Additionally, the upper is often made of soft calf leather or a combination of suede/fabric which compresses easily under crampon straps causing discomfort and cold feet.

MEDIUM B:1

Boots suitable for the easiest snow and ice conditions found when hill walking.
Crampons used in an emergency or when crossing a short patch of snow or ice, rather than setting out for a full days walk using crampons. They will have a relatively stiff flexing sole and the upper should provide enough ankle and foot support for traversing relatively steep slopes.

CRAMPONS
C:1 A flexible walking crampon, attached with straps, with or without front points.
RIGID B:2

Boots designed for four season mountaineering, which can be used all day with crampons. Stiff flex boots with the equivalent of a three quarter or full shank mid-sole and a supportive upper made from 3 mm/+ thick leather. Easy alpine terrain can be covered.

CRAMPONS
C:2
Articulated, multi-purpose crampons with front points. Attached with multi-purpose all round straps or at the front, (ideally with a French ring system) and clip on heel.

VERY RIGID B:3

Technical mountaineering /climbing boots.
Usually a totally rigid boot both in midsole and upper. Used for mountaineering and ice climbing.

CRAMPONS
C:3
Articulated climbing or fully rigid technical crampon attached by full clip-on system of toe bar and heel clip.

From COLA NEWS n° 39 (U.K)

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