Flex
and torsion are essential characteristics of
a boot, different specifications of the midsole
result in different essential characteristics
of the boot depending upon its potential end
use.
For example a mountain boot intended to be used
with crampons will have a technical stiffness
grade which means no midsole longitudinal flex
and virtually no torsional flex.
BECK® feature four different grades of flex
and torsion.
Grading
system crampon compatibility devised by Brian Hall equipment
consultant and British Mountain Guide
The grading system is based on simplicity,
and is designed as a guide to trained and
experienced retail staff.
Boots are graded from B:0 to B:3 and crampons
from C:1 to C:3. For example, B:1 boots are
compatible to C:1 crampons only.
SOFT
B:0
Not
recommended for crampons.
Most walking boots are designed to flex
for comfort and do not have sufficient lateral
and longitudinal rigidity in their midsole.
Additionally, the upper is often made of
soft calf leather or a combination of suede/fabric
which compresses easily under crampon straps
causing discomfort and cold feet.
MEDIUM
B:1
Boots
suitable for the easiest snow and ice conditions
found when hill walking.
Crampons used in an emergency or when crossing
a short patch of snow or ice, rather than
setting out for a full days walk using crampons.
They will have a relatively stiff flexing
sole and the upper should provide enough
ankle and foot support for traversing relatively
steep slopes. CRAMPONS C:1 A flexible walking
crampon, attached with straps, with or without
front points.
RIGID
B:2
Boots
designed for four season mountaineering,
which can be used all day with crampons.
Stiff flex boots with the equivalent of
a three quarter or full shank mid-sole and
a supportive upper made from 3 mm/+ thick
leather. Easy alpine terrain can be covered. CRAMPONS
C:2 Articulated, multi-purpose
crampons with front points. Attached with
multi-purpose all round straps or at the
front, (ideally with a French ring system)
and clip on heel.
VERY
RIGID B:3
Technical
mountaineering /climbing boots.
Usually a totally rigid boot both in midsole
and upper. Used for mountaineering and
ice climbing. CRAMPONS
C:3 Articulated climbing or fully
rigid technical crampon attached by full
clip-on system of toe bar and heel clip.
Flex
and torsion are essential characteristics of
a boot, different specifications of the midsole
result in different essential characteristics
of the boot depending upon its potential end
use. 
Not
recommended for crampons. 
Boots
suitable for the easiest snow and ice conditions
found when hill walking.
Boots
designed for four season mountaineering,
which can be used all day with crampons.
Stiff flex boots with the equivalent of
a three quarter or full shank mid-sole and
a supportive upper made from 3 mm/+ thick
leather. Easy alpine terrain can be covered.
Technical
mountaineering /climbing boots.
