The Grivel G10 New-Matic Evo crampons offer an excellent balance of simplicity and performance.

The Grivel G10 New-Matic Evo crampons, the only 10-point model in this review, are squarely aimed at winter walking, but will stray onto steeper stuff if needed. The two front points are more than functional enough for kicking into steep snow, and the secondary points are angled more downward than forward, optimising grip on horizontal surfaces rather than vertical ones.

Lucy Wallace recommends

For a premium brand, these crampons are surprisingly affordable, offering high quality at a price accessible to entry-level users and experienced walkers alike.
Pros
  • great value
  • compact
  • robust
  • excellent anti-balling plates
Cons
  • 10 points provide less traction
  • relatively heavy
Quick specs
Price£130
Weight858g
MaterialsSteel (Nickel- Chrome Molybdenum Steel), plastic, nylon strap
FeaturesAnti-balling plates, adjustable heel clip, strap with quick-lock buckle fastening
No. of points10
Compatibility ratingC2 (Grivel make a C1 version called the New-Classic Evo)
Fits sizes approxEU 35 – 46, UK 3-12.5 (long bars available)
grivel.com

I tested the New-Matic binding, which includes a heel clip compatible with B2 boots with heel welts and a classic plastic basket system at the front. These crampons are compact and easy to adjust to a wide range of sizes, particularly at the smaller end, where other models fall short.

The heel clip can be adjusted through three settings to fine-tune the tension, snapping securely onto the back of the boot. The adjustments are straightforward and can be done without tools, although moving the heel clip requires some effort. Grivel crampons are known for their durability, and the G10s are no exception.

The crampons offer an excellent balance of simplicity and performance. While not as aggressive as some models, they are user-friendly and easy to get used to. While more technical 12-point models may perform better in a mountaineering setting, the G-10’s provide reliable traction on snow, rimed rock, and ice, and are robust enough for easier mixed terrain and icy scrambles.

The anti-balling plates deserve special mention for shedding snow better than any other model I tested. For a premium brand, these crampons are surprisingly affordable, offering high quality at a price accessible to entry-level users and experienced walkers alike.

Testing Conditions

Testing took place during the winter 2023-24 season in the west of Scotland, Munro-bagging and teaching winter skills as part of Lucy’s work as a Mountain Leader. Weights supplied were obtained using her home digital scales. This review was first published in the January 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors magazine. To compare other options, read our guide to the best crampons you can buy.