Ice axe length for ski mountaineering. Typically, 45-50cm in length is ideal.
Ice axe length for ski mountaineering In this video, Reuben from Next Adventure shows you how Nov 24, 2024 · Don’t get an axe longer than 70cm unless you’re tall enough to need an axe that size. 8m): 60-70cm >6'0" (>1. For example, one of our guides is 6’1″ (185cm) and their longest ice axe is 60 cm. Typically, 45-50cm in length is ideal. 5 ft). His most frequently used ice axe is 56cm, and he even uses a 45cm ice axe for ski objectives. Longer axes are easier to plunge on flatter terrain, while shorter axes are easier to use in steep terrain. Jan 12, 2023 · From glacier travel to ice climbing, the best ice axes will provide the security needed to scale those big, intimidating slopes. A 75 cm axe is quite long, and most people will find that it touches the ground on nearly flat terrain. When it comes to ski mountaineering, the ideal size depends on your height. Feb 2, 2021 · For those who want to progress to steeper ski mountaineering objectives, Petzl also make a very similar ice axe with a beefier head and a trigger rest, the Gully. Apr 28, 2025 · 2. Mar 12, 2021 · If you want to explore more technical routes, then two axes (Sum'tec, or Quarks for instance) for steep snow or easy ice climbing, or a single very short (45 cm) axe for descending technical ski routes makes more sense. For moderate terrain, you will want to size your ice axe a little longer than you might otherwise. 01. Ice axes for ski mountaineering super light to always have with you in case you are to go up some steep couloir or Length . It has a straight shaft, made of anodised aluminium tubing, and the slightest of curves in the head. 8m): 60-70cm; Too short is generally better than too long. Axes less than 60cm are generally for technical ice climbing and are best used for very steep or vertical slopes. As such, don’t fall into the trap of getting a “cane”. The design of this type of ice axe is mainly for self arrest and basic mountaineering. The length of your ice axe will depend on several factors, including your height, climbing style, and the type of terrain you’ll be on. Not looking to do anything technical, just occasional steep snow or crevasse travel. Nov 29, 2023 · One vital piece of gear that every ice climber must have is a mountaineering ice axe. Ice axes vary in length from 50cm to 75cm. ice screw(s) 2nd ice axe w/ hammer attachment 7 Day North Cascades Alpine Climbing; Rock & Ice Climbing Courses. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore top-rated ice axes tailored for ski mountaineering, offering expert reviews and valuable insights to help you make an informed buying decision. Modern axes are sold in 45 cm to 75 cm lengths. A classic mountaineering ice axe should fit comfortably in your hand and be suitable for whatever terrain you plan to tackle, no matter steep terrain or ski mountaineering. Type 1: These are typically walking or mountaineering axes with the minimum necessary strengths for ice axe belaying. Apr 7, 2021 · Mike Lewis carries the Blue Ice Akila ice axes into the Colorado Backcountry for a day of alpine ice climbing. While the primary use of a basic ice axe is for self-arrest and walking up a snowy slope, a technical axe is primary built for climbing. 50 Scottish-style mixed climbing makes great demands on ice axes. It is measured from the tip of the axe to the top of the head. Its aluminum shaft promises extreme lightness and solidity. Get an ice axe that goes to around the bottom of your Content blocked Please turn off your ad blocker. How To Measure For Ice Axe Size. I currently use a 50cm ice axe for ski mountaineering. In this article, we're focused on mountaineering axes, but it's helpful to know the differences while you shop: Compared to classic ice axes, ice-climbing axes are shorter, have bent shafts and a head that has a different design Aug 21, 2023 · My current mountaineering axe is 70cm and is heavy. Here are some options I'm looking at: Blue Ice Hummingbird Ice Axe: Tried it before, liked it besides the price Dec 19, 2023 · Needing an ice axe to take on Mont Blanc and a load of other peaks I had my eye on, the Grivel G-Zero stood out as a lightweight ice axe explicitly crafted for beginners planning their first ski-touring and mountaineering endeavours. We look at both straight and curve shaft options with a wide variety of uses, including technical, vertical ice climbing, ski mountaineering, and glacial travel. Colder temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns and fewer daylight hours make factors like kit Ice ax length depends as much on steepness of terrain as on height, the steeper the terrain the shorter the ax. The main criterion is thus lightness. As AA Grapsas commented, it also depends on the type of climbing. That’s why many more advanced climbers prefer shorter axes - they just don’t need the ax until things are quite steep, they’re fine with ski poles or nothing until then, and on that steep terrain a shorter ax will be better for swinging or dagger position or other things than Oct 21, 2024 · Ideally, you want an ice axe, that is comfortable to handle but durable to do its job in whatever terrain that you find yourself in. The best collection of Ice axes in India, curated for the Indian alpinist. I rarely use ropes and stuff, but have done some straight up ice climbing--used a curved pair of specialty ice climbing axes, ice anchors, a moving belay climb. I'm 5'10. I was cheating with a 56 cm Grivel Super Courmayeur with an Evolution pick that could go back and forth between mountaineering and water ice/alpine ice routes, but thinking a lighter axe might be nice. 4 days ago · Best Budget Ice Axe: 4. Steep Terrain What Size Ice Axe Should I Use for Ski Mountaineering? Ice axes come in shapes and sizes. CAMP USA Corsa Nanotech. There is a much wider range of technical axes than basic ice axes to help climber’s pick the best ice axe for the terrain they plan on climbing. While the design and features of ice axes may vary, one key factor to consider is the length of the axe. Dec 11, 2019 · Shorter models also pack nicer for ski-mountaineering, early-season backpacking, and alpine rock climbing, where 60cm should be a maximum length for even the tallest users. Thinking of the Petzl Summit and wondering about length and whether 52 or 59 cm. The shaft on these axes will be shorter and typically come only in one length. 350 grams is usually the max weight. However, personal preference and the slopes you expect to typically encounter may shorten the length. Jan 14, 2017 · A rough guide to ice axe length is: <5'8" (<1. The general rule of sizing an ice axe for general or traditional mountaineering says that the spike of the axe should reach your ankle when you hold the head of the axe in your hand alongside your body. Have you ever felt completely lost staring at a wall of ice axes at an outdoor store? Finding the right ice axe for ski mountaineering can be overwhelming! May 20, 2024 · Understanding the Ice Axe for Ski Mountaineering; Best Ice Axe For Ski Mountaineering. Petzl Sum’Tec. Size Guide for Ice-Axes Over the last hundred years or so of mountaineering, ice axe sizing and styles have changed greatly. 72-1. Jan 28, 2022 · In this update, we select 17 of the current market's best to hack away at waterfalls, chop steps, and practice our self-arrest techniques. While grasping the head of the axe (between the pick and adze), the spike should come about to your ankle bone. 2 Day Intro to Ice Climbing; 3 Day Intro to Alpine Rock Climbing; 1-3 Day Rock Climbing Instruction; 1 Day Alpine Rock Skills Training; 3 Day Smith Rock Intro to Sport Climbing; Backcountry Skiing Courses. Controlling a Slide in Ski Touring: Ice Axe Arrest Knowing how to use your ice axe to stop a fall is essential in ski touring. Dec 25, 2024 · Ski mountaineering axe. One way of determining this is by standing upright and holding the ice axe by the shaft while keeping your arms relaxed by your side. These axes will also usually come with leashes, however these are not recommended for general mountaineering. To find the right length ice axe based on your size, hold it while standing upright and relaxed with your arms by your sides. This allows the spike to contact the snow while walking without having to uncomfortably bend over. com. Dec 14, 2022 · I've been using a Gully since 2018 for ski mountaineering, summer alpine climbing, and general mountaineering, and it's been great. We recommend a model with a short, straight shaft. Length is important when shopping for an ice axe for ice climbing or ski This very scarce ca. Technical and General Ice Axes for Climbing, Mountaineering, Ski touring. Petzl Glacier. However, it is less effective on softer or snow-covered terrain. Ultralight Mountaineering. The top of the axe should reach your ankle or slightly above it. Amazon. The Hummingbird is available in two lengths: 4 Looking at buying a ski mountaineering oriented ice axe after lugging my 60cm straight shaft ice axe around. I typically use it as a more secure way to climb up steep snow/ski routes, along with crampons, and have as a self arrest tool. We’ve laid out some of our favorites for mountaineering below, but there’s enough variety to meet you wherever you are in your outdoor journey. It has the adze for making footsteps and stuff. com : Professional Ice Climbing Axes, Lightweight Outdoor Walking Pickaxe with Aluminum Material Length 24 * 60/70/80cm Weight 403g/432g/458g, Climbing Equipment for Mountaineering Hiking : Sports & Outdoors B rated axes are lower strength and are designed for use in general circumstances such as mountaineering, glacier travel and ski mountaineering. The most important factor of an ice axe is its length. So far i did a lot of hiking, ferratas (D) and easy climbing (UIAA 1-2, without rope) around 2500m in the austrian alps. Feb 26, 2024 · Finding the best ice axe for ski mountaineering can significantly enhance your climbing experience and ensure a safer journey. 5 Aug 19, 2020 · Equally at home in the spandex clad ski-mo racing world (the 50cm length fits ISMF regulations) and the summit driven light-is-right ski mountaineering realm, the Blue Ice Hummingbird is a surprisingly competent featherweight. officially approved for ski mountaineering competitions. Pros; Cons; 04. 1930's antique ice axe was made by the legendary ice axe maker Alfred Bhend (second generation). Mountaineering. Moved Permanently. If you get into actual alpine ice climbing you're going to use ice tools not axes which are much shorter and are curved so that both ends are in constant contact with the ice and snow for better grip. Determine the Length of the Ice Axe. They have various lengths and can either have a straight or curved shaft. One thing to keep in mind is that your ice axe will most likely be on your backpack more than your hand. Black Diamond Raven Ultra. The blade is ergonomic for better comfort while holding it. The lightest axes available, used most for ski mountaineering, adventure racing, and other "go light" ascents. As with most gear, it's important to consider the weight of your ice axe and its size and shape. Ice axes for technical routes will have aggressive bends and be heavier than a general mountaineering axe, for better ease of swinging into ice. Jan 17, 2024 · Best Value Mountaineering Axe: Grivel G1 Ice Axe; Best Size Range in Mountaineering Axes: With a shaft just under 20 inches long, it’s a short ice axe designed with ski mountaineering in Jun 10, 2019 · How to Size a Classic Axe. Jun 21, 2024 · Technical ice axes are used for steep snow and ice climbing. ice axe. The Bhend ice axe tradition spans over 150 years, with the craft passing down through 4 generations, today known as Bhend Metallblau, with Ruedi Bhend, nearly seventy years old, still making ice axes every winter. Pros; Cons; 03. Ultralight at just 230g (50cm), the Hummingbird ice axe is ideal for technical mountaineering, high-alpine skiing or competitive ski mountaineering. And that’s mainly to do with general-mountaineering axes, as technical ice-climbing axes/ice tools have less variation in this department; most are about 50 centimeters long. Amazon price $77. Nov 17, 2018 · For ski mountaineering, your axe will likely stay on your pack more than 90% of the time, so the extra length/weight is also constant liability. Pros; Cons; 05. There are a number of different ice axes available in UK mountaineering shops. The shaft is cut at the end to save weight and is primarily designed for ski mountaineering and light mountaineering. Its titanium head is as light as aluminum but as solid as steel. The hammer is designed to smash in pitons, pickets and snow anchors. An ultralight ice axe for technical mountaineering and high-alpine skiing. climbing helmet. The length of your mountaineering ice axe plays a significant role in your ability to efficiently and effectively navigate icy terrain. There are a couple of ways to decide which length is right for you. Dec 11, 2019 · Its short length means it can be carried inside your pack (or will be less bothersome on the outside) while alpine rock climbing or ski-mountaineering. Because low weight is the main design priority for ski mountaineering axes, their minimalist shaft is short and usually only ‘B’ rated. This is the most common type of snow mountaineering axe. In ski touring and ski mountaineering, the ice axe is only used when necessary and is not central to your activity. . Mar 16, 2025 · The ice axes in this test are all designed for general-purpose winter or Alpine mountaineering. The traverse The DMM Spire is a lightweight ice axe that is well suited for winter walking and ski touring, with potential to branch into more demanding winter mountaineering days. I know there isn't the perfect allround model but i still have to start somewhere. Ice axes for general mountaineering, by contrast, may range from 40 to 90 centimeters in length. The decreased weight means they are axes are built for snow missions, not ice. Here, Nick Nason carries his Ride ice axe down the West Ridge of Cutthroat Peak, North Cascades, WA. The average ice axe will be between 50cm and 75cm. If you stand up straight and hold the axe by its head, then you can eyeball it to see if the ice axe is the right size. boot crampons (often aluminum) optional, based on conditions: picket(s) + mid-clip cable + locking carabiner. Grivel Air Tech Racing SA. Pros; Cons; 02. This type of tool is suitable for glacier travel, ski mountaineering and winter walking where reduced weight is important. 7 to 31. [Photo] Yaroslav Lototskyy. petzl. The trick to getting the right size ice axe is getting a proper measurement of yourself. Most routes involve a lot more trekking where ski poles are handy and you only need an ice axe when the terrain gets steeper. They also lack a rubber grip may only have an aluminium spike. Ice axes with leash options Reliable ice tools for alpine Best brands for ice axes Comfortable grip for axes Compact ice tools for travel Top ice axes for mountaineering Durable axes for ice climbing Lightweight ice axes for snowy slopes Affordable axes for winter hiking High-quality axes with T ratings Ice Axe for Ski Touring. 0 Flag There are axes for each activity, be it glacier hikes, mountaineering or ice climbing. Best Overall: Petzl Glacier; Best Budget Ice Axe: Black Diamond Raven; Best Ski Mountaineering Ice Axe: Petzl Summit Evo; Best Mountaineering Ice Axe: Black Diamond Venom; Best Thru-Hiking Ice Axe: Camp Corsa These ice axes are more expensive and are typically favoured by ski mountaineering competitors. The light weight and short length carry really well on a pack, and the trigrest and recurve pick allow it to climb easy ice decently. It also has a bottom grip to improve control and precision. It might be tempting to just pick out the most rugged-looking axe you can find (check out our guide to the best ice axes you can buy) but knowing how to choose an ice axe is important to make sure you end up with the right type – and length – for your May 15, 2025 · Many hikers carry ice axes for early season trips in alpine regions or when trail conditions may include lingering snow patches. Many ice axes are within the 50 to 75 cm range (1. More info at: www. 45 cm 3 items; 49 cm 1 item; 50 cm 4 Related Searches. I really stay away from ice for the most part, but may use it to get up a 5ft section of an ice slab/bulge, but generally not purely vertical. Full winter conditions in the hills and mountains present an added challenge for even the most experienced hill walker or mountaineer. Feb 14, 2024 · The best icy outdoor adventures demand the best ice axes. 72m): 50-60cm; 5'8"-6'0" (1. Components that are T rated have passed the most stringent tests and are designed to cope in all circumstances including such high stress activities as ice climbing and dry tooling. I'm currently looking into getting my first ice axe that fits my future endeavours best. Pros; Cons; Essential Equipment: The Importance of Having an Ice Axe for Ski Apr 12, 2021 · In This video I talk about some of the features to look for in a ski mountaineering ice axe and some of the pros and cons of a small selection of some off th Feb 5, 2021 · Looking for advice on how to size an ice axe for walking or mountaineering? Our in-depth guide explains the differences between ice axes and how to select the correct length ice axe for you. How do I know what size ice axe to buy? The traditional method for sizing an ice axe is to hold it at your side with the spike touching the ground. 3 Day Intro to Backcountry Ski Touring; 5 Day Glacier Ski Mountaineering Light and minimal ice axe for ski touring and light mountaineering, with G-bone shaft, adze version. For Scottish mixed: DMM SWITCH £218. According to the old advice, all of his ice axes are at least 10cm too short! Why keep an ice axe short? On steep terrain, a longer ice axe puts the climber’s hand Sep 29, 2013 · Choosing an Ice Axe Length: The length of an axe dictates where it’s useful. Ice axes for ice climbing: These are designed for climbing frozen waterfalls, icefalls or ice-covered slabs of rock. Cassin CAMP USA Neve Ice Axe. The Ghost is the lightest axe of the Grivel collection. Photo: iStock LENGTH. Its blade is more curved and aggressive, making it ideal for vertical ice climbing. The document has moved here. Within the world of hybrid tools, I notice three types of design combinations: 1) extremely light, primarily aluminum tools with mountaineering picks (less sharp and more flat) made for ski and non-technical mountaineering such as the Camp Corsa (50-70cm Dec 2, 2024 · Best Ice Axe For Ski Mountaineering (2024 Update) Published on December 2, 2024 by Just A Taste When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. light mountaineering harness. 6–2. As a general rule, the length should allow you to comfortably use the axe for self-arrest, support while ascending or descending, and general movement on snow or ice. A slight curve can also be ok, but generally speaking it's for more special use cases. This backup ice axe will spend most of the outing attached to your backpack. Traverse or Ski Mountaineering Ice Axe. Feb 12, 2024 · Finding the best ice axe can be tricky. Although most will cope with steeper general mountaineering routes or low-grade climbs (up to about Grade II depending on the climber), they’re intended for straightforward routes on winter hills: walking plus the odd steeper gully. The technical or ice climbing ice axe is shorter and lighter than the classic one. Each ice axe features specific characteristics depending on the usage, such as shaft length, shape, style of pick, etc. 54; Best for ice hiking, general mountaineering; Length (inches): 19. Tailored to meet the demands of climbers and skiers navigating va Jan 14, 2022 · If you’re hiking or mountaineering at high altitude, your outdoor kit will probably include items like crampons and even an ice axe. a. hmnain guknezw vhuqa ngua ihiov ogxn nrokaz dftbs mejk cnlx