MOUNTAINEERING CRAMPONS - MAKALU, MONOCÉROS, CAÏMAN, VAMPIRE

Simond crampons are asymmetric, do not switch the left and the right foot.
To help, there are markings on the crampons and the fastening buckle of the straps will always be on the outer side of the foot.

Adjust the size with the rapido system by lifting the bright-coloured metal lever.

When the length of the crampon fits correctly, it should hold your shoe without doing up the fasteners.
The brake bar should not exceed more than 10 mm further than the heel.

Shoe size ranges: the Vampire and Makalu models have two shoe size ranges, the transition from one to the other is made by engaging the bar of the clamp in the reduction bridge. For the Caïman and Monocéros models, screws are provided for shortening.

Check there is a good hold of the crampon under the shoe. It should not be able to move at all.
Check before use: Try the crampon in a harmless place, the crampon should stay in place on the shoe in every situation.

For shoes with toe and heel welts:

1- Engage the front edge of the shoe under the front thread.
2- Place the heel of the shoe into the heel of the crampon (the stoppers should be in contact with the sole) Check that the screwing knob is upright. Adjust with the micrometre screw and engage the heel piece.
3- Then fasten and tighten the strap.

For shoes with heel welts:

1- Place the tip of the shoe under the soft front attachment.
2- Place the heel of the shoe into the heel of the crampon (the stoppers should be in contact with the sole). Adjust with the micrometre screw and engage the heel piece.
3- Thread the strap through the front soft attachment.
4- Fasten and tighten the strap.

For shoes without welts:

1- Place the tip of the shoe under the front soft attachment.
2- Place the heel of the shoe in the heel of the crampon. The crampon should be adjusted so that it holds the heel itself on the shoe.
3- Thread the strap through the front soft attachment then through the back strap and then through the buckle tightener. Tightening the strap.

Mounting Vampire point(s):

1- Insert the first screw/spacer system into the rear hole of the tip(s), then fit the nut.
2- Slide the screw/spacer system into the rear slot of the spike retainer.
3- Insert the 2nd screw/spacer/nut system
4- tighten the screw

Changing Monocéros points:

1- Unscrew the screw and remove the point
2- Install the new point
3- Put in the screw
4- Tighten the screw

Before, during and after every use, check that your crampons are in a good state;
- Check the metal parts for cracks.
- Check the integrity of the binding systems and the straps (for burns and/or cuts).
- Check there is a good sharpening. If the points have been made blunt, make sure that the length of them remains sufficient (20 mm minimum from the tip to the snowshoe).
- Check the oxidation on the metal parts and the legibility of the markings on the product. Check the oxidation on the metal parts and the legibility of the markings on the product.

Metal parts: the lifespan is not down to time, the crampon can be used as long as it satisfies the inspection requirements.

Plastic parts and straps: the lifespan is ten years after the first use, subject to meeting the inspection requirements.
This lifespan can be reduced due to a single case where there is a hard impact, i.e. a fall. If there is any doubt about the integrity of the equipment, dispose of it. Any repair or modification is prohibited. The safety of the user is linked to maintaining the efficiency and strength of this equipment.

SIMOND has a 2-year guarantee after the date of purchase for all manufacturing defaults. Normal wear and tear as well as any damage resulting from misuse or modification of the product are excluded from the warranty.

Rinse the crampons with clean water and then wipe dry to remove any moisture.
Rub the metal parts with an oiled cloth to prevent corrosion on exposed the metal parts.
Wipe off excess product, especially on the plastic parts.
Once the crampons are properly dried and oiled, store in a dry and ventilated place.
If the straps are wet, dry them without exposing them to a heat source.
Avoid contact with chemicals (acid, bleach, oil, petrol, diesel, solvents, etc.) as this may permanently damage the product.
The same applies if the crampons are exposed to a very strong heat source.

Sharpen with a soft file, never use a grinding wheel as it can heat up and damage the heat treatment of the crampon.
Never attempt to straighten a bent spike, as this may create cracks in the metal that will reduce its strength.
Always sharpen the edges of the points, never the flat parts.
To check the sharpness of the points, touch them with your finger, the point should be pointed without being sharp.