Jim... the crampons listed are not technical climbing crampons - they can be used with flexible soled boots... don't require a rigid mountaineering boot.

But Trailrunner and Pika are correct, crampons are part of a system that includes an ice-axe and training in self-arrest techniques. They are generally used for glacier travel and higher angle (compacted) snow travel. Crampons with front points are notorious for causing cuts in the ankle area, and they also tend to 'catch', which can lead to some nasty injuries from falls.

MNS