Let’s Talk About C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates
Winter mountaineering and ice climbing can be brutally unforgiving, and one of the most common, and infuriating, problems is snow balling up under your crampons. The C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates promise a solution to this icy dilemma. Manufactured by C.A.M.P., these plates are designed to prevent snow from sticking to your crampons, improving efficiency and safety on snow and ice.
I’ve spent years battling this issue, resorting to everything from cooking spray to elaborate duct tape contraptions. This led me to search for a reliable, purpose-built solution.
My first impression upon receiving the C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates was that they were surprisingly simple. The green color is… noticeable. Compared to using makeshift solutions, this product feels like a dedicated upgrade.
While there are other anti-balling solutions on the market, I chose the C.A.M.P. plates due to their reputation for durability and their claim of a superior “foul ice coefficient.” I passed on some competing models that seemed flimsier or had more complex attachment systems.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; I was excited to see if these plates could truly live up to the hype and eliminate the dreaded “snow shoes” effect on steep climbs.
Real-World Testing: Putting C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates on a late-season climb of Mount Washington’s Tuckerman Ravine. The conditions were classic spring mountaineering: a mix of hardpack snow, patches of ice, and softening snow at lower elevations. The temperatures hovered around freezing with occasional flurries.
The plates performed admirably in the hardpack and icy sections, preventing snow buildup as advertised. However, in the softer, wetter snow at lower elevations, I did experience some minor balling, although significantly less than without the plates. I did not need any time to get used to them, as they integrate seamlessly with compatible crampons.
The only initial issue was with the attachment system on one of the plates, which seemed a bit loose and required some on-the-fly adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, including several ice climbing trips and winter hikes, the C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates have proven to be reasonably durable. There are some minor scratches and abrasions from contact with rocks and ice, but no significant signs of wear or tear. They are relatively easy to clean; a simple rinse with water removes most debris.
Compared to my previous experiences with improvised anti-balling solutions, the C.A.M.P. plates are a vast improvement. The difference in performance is night and day. They outperform anything I’ve tried before, though they are not a perfect solution in all snow conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates
Specifications
The C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates are designed to prevent snow buildup under crampons. They achieve this by using a flexible material and strategically placed contours to shed snow. The plates feature a patent-pending attachment system that eliminates the need for metal spacers.
They are made of a durable plastic and are designed to be lightweight, adding minimal weight to your crampons. They are green, and the manufacturer is C.A.M.P. These specifications matter because they directly affect the plates’ effectiveness, durability, and ease of use.
Performance & Functionality
The C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates perform their primary function of reducing snow balling effectively in most conditions. While they aren’t foolproof in extremely wet snow, they significantly minimize the problem compared to using crampons without any anti-balling system. Their attachment is a minor area for improvement.
The plates excel in preventing dangerous snow buildup on steep terrain, enhancing safety and efficiency. The performance largely meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates is relatively simple and straightforward. The choice of durable plastic keeps the weight down. The plates do not impede movement and integrate seamlessly with compatible crampons.
The attachment system, while generally effective, could be improved for easier and more secure fitting. The design is user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment.
Durability & Maintenance
The plates are made from a robust plastic that can withstand repeated flexing and abrasion from snow, ice, and rocks. With proper care, they should last for several seasons of use. A quick rinse with water after each use is sufficient for maintenance.
Repairing damage is not really an option; replacement is the most practical approach.
Accessories and Customization Options
The C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates themselves do not have many accessories or customization options. Their primary function is as an add-on for crampons. Compatibility with various crampon models is an important consideration.
They work best with crampons designed to accommodate anti-balling plates, and may require some modification to fit older or incompatible models. No third party accessories exist that directly interact with the C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates.
Pros and Cons of C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates
Pros
- Significantly reduces snow balling under crampons, improving safety and efficiency.
- Lightweight design adds minimal weight to your gear.
- Relatively durable construction withstands abrasion and flexing.
- Easy to install and remove.
- Cost-effective solution compared to other anti-balling options.
Cons
- Not 100% effective in extremely wet snow conditions.
- Attachment system could be more secure and easier to adjust.
- Green color might not appeal to everyone.
Who Should Buy C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates?
The C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates are perfect for mountaineers, ice climbers, and winter hikers who frequently encounter snowy or icy conditions. They are particularly beneficial for those venturing into steep terrain where snow balling can be a serious safety hazard.
Those who primarily hike in dry or snow-free conditions, or those who only occasionally encounter snow, might not find these plates necessary. A secure attachment system is a must-have modification, and might require some improvisation.
Conclusion on C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates
Overall, the C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates are a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about winter mountaineering or ice climbing. While they aren’t perfect, they provide a significant improvement in performance and safety compared to using crampons without any anti-balling system. At $13.50, the price is justified by the increased safety and comfort they provide.
I would personally recommend these plates to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable anti-balling solution. Don’t let snow balling ruin your next winter adventure – give the C.A.M.P. Ascent Anti-Balling Plates a try and experience the difference.