When planning your trip to Iceland, you might come across the term crampons and wonder whether you need to buy them or if they’ll be provided. It all comes down to the type of tour you're taking. This guide explains the difference between glacier crampons and ice spikes, helping you understand when each is necessary, whether they’ll be provided, and when purchasing them makes sense for your trip.
Glacier crampons are specialized traction devices designed for walking safely on icy glacier surfaces. They have sharp metal spikes that provide secure footing on steep, frozen terrain. At Arctic Adventures, we provide glacier crampons for all our tours where you'll be walking directly on a glacier—whether it’s a glacier hike, ice climbing, or ice cave tour.
You’ll usually see them listed under the Included section on the tour page. They’re handed out before the glacier portion of the trip. Since they’re designed specifically for technical glacier surfaces, they need to be returned at the end of the tour.
Ice spikes, sometimes called ice grip spikes, are lightweight traction devices designed for everyday winter walking. These devices can also be referred to as crampons or lightweight crampons. They’re perfect for sightseeing at places like waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic craters where paths can get icy. These spikes provide extra grip on non-technical terrain, making them a great option for staying steady during winter exploring.
You can purchase ice spikes (referred to as crampons in the booking process), and they’re yours to keep—ideal for future winter adventures or even navigating icy city streets. Sizes available include medium (EU 41-43 or smaller) and large (EU 44-46 or larger).
Iceland’s winters can be icy, especially between mid-October and mid-April. Countryside attractions like waterfalls and craters often get slippery during this time. Locals frequently use ice spikes to stay safe on winter walks, as they provide extra grip on frozen paths. Wearing ice spikes helps prevent slips and makes sightseeing more comfortable, so you can focus on enjoying the views.
We do not offer crampons or ice spikes for rent. Ice spikes are available for a one-time purchase during booking (ISK 4,900) and can be kept for future use. Glacier crampons are provided for glacier tours such as hiking, walking, ice climbing, and ice cave visits but must be returned after use.
Knowing when to use each can help you prepare better for your tour:
Glacier Hiking Tours (e.g., Glacier Wonders, Blue Ice Glacier Hike & Ice Climbing): Glacier crampons are provided for the glacier portion of the tour and must be returned afterward.
Sightseeing Tours (e.g., Golden Circle, South Coast): Ice spikes are recommended for the entire tour and can be purchased during booking.
Mixed Tours (e.g., South Coast & Glacier Hike): Glacier crampons will be provided for the hike, and ice spikes for sightseeing are recommended to be purchased during booking.
Snorkeling and Other Exceptions (e.g., Silfra Fissure, Snowmobiling): Neither required.
Use this guide to determine what traction gear suits your tour:
Going on a glacier tour with us? No need to worry—your guide will provide glacier crampons for the glacier part of the tour.
Sightseeing in winter? We recommend purchasing lightweight ice spikes during booking to stay safe on icy paths.
Joining a mixed tour with both glacier hiking and sightseeing? Glacier crampons will be provided for the glacier hike, and ice spikes are recommended for the sightseeing stops—available for purchase during booking.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about choosing the right traction gear for your Iceland adventure!