The Petzl Leopard FL is a super lightweight crampon designed specifically for snow approaches. With the crampons themselves being made entirely of aluminium, a pair of Leopard FLs weighs just 360g. Roughly speaking, 360g is equivalent to two adult hamsters. Now while hamsters might not be anywhere near as impressive, or as ferocious, as leopards we do think this nugget of information perfectly illustrates just how easy it is to lug these things up and down the mountain.

Another aspect of this product’s design that we find to be particularly useful is the CORD-TEC flexible linking system. This feature, where two extremely tough ropes link the two ends of the crampon together, helps to minimise bulk when the crampons are packed away; something you’ll be especially grateful for when your backpack is bursting at the seams as you struggle to make all of your other mountaineering gear fit.

“They might only be as heavy as a pair of hamsters, but the Leopard FLs really do pack a punch.”

While we’re on the subject of the Leopard FL’s compactibility, you’ll be glad to know that the product comes with its own private bag to help keep things tidy. This means you won’t have to worry about your crampons stabbing the life out of your possessions as they move about inside your backpack, or your hand as you reach in there to to grab something.

The FLEX-LOCK binding system is well-suited for use with hiking and approach shoes, without heel or toe welts, and gets the seal of approval for its simplicity and general usability. The Leopard FL can also be used with snowboard boots.