What size ice axe for ski mountaineering. The average ice axe will be between 50cm and 75cm.
What size ice axe for ski mountaineering Most people going mountaineering tend to choose a shorter ice axes because it offers more benefits. How to Hold an Ice Axe Parts of an Ice Axe. You’ll want to consider several different options depending on the route in question. The Hummingbird is available in two lengths: 4 Selection Process. A short ice axe is useless in the lower steepness terrain. His most frequently used ice axe is 56cm, and he even uses a 45cm ice axe for ski objectives. From more technical models that blur the lines of what could be used for even water ice climbing to Ultralite models for alpine rock, ski-mountaineering, or spring backpacking trips on the PCT. Its ergonomic design allows for efficient self-belay techniques, allowing skiers to safely traverse exposed areas by anchoring themselves to the mountain using the axe. Generally speaking, you’ve got shorter ice axes and longer ice axes. This backup ice axe will spend most of the outing attached to your backpack. Ice axes for ice climbing: These are designed for climbing frozen waterfalls, icefalls or ice-covered slabs of rock. The Ghost is the lightest axe of the Grivel collection. com - Another specialized outdoor website that has a free classified section to post your outdoor gear. 0 Skip to Content A general mountaineering ice axe. petzl. A slight curve can also be ok, but generally speaking it's for more special use cases. The next step is learning ho Mar 9, 2024 · Check Details Axe ice length mountaineering expocafeperu boot muir pass track chart crampons sierra high correct sizing. 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. 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 Sep 29, 2023 · Comprehensive guide for Ice axes in 2024 Learn about top-performing models, pros and cons, and choose the perfect ice axe for your mountaineering adventures. Tailored to meet the demands of climbers and skiers navigating va Nov 17, 2018 · Whippet is mainly for arresting a sliding fall for skiing on steep-isn terrain. So far i did a lot of hiking, ferratas (D) and easy climbing (UIAA 1-2, without rope) around 2500m in the austrian alps. 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. Perfect for climbers aiming for Rainier, Denali, and beyond. The mission is available in 70L and 55L volumes and made with 420d ripstop nylon fabric with a UTS coating for bomber durability. I'm 5'10. Jun 21, 2024 · Technical ice axes are used for steep snow and ice climbing. They also lack a rubber grip may only have an aluminium spike. What Size Ice Axe Should I Use for Ski Mountaineering? Ice axes come in shapes and sizes. 6–2. This makes the axe more adaptable for climbing steeper terrain. Mar 16, 2025 · The ice axes in this test are all designed for general-purpose winter or Alpine mountaineering. The blade is ergonomic for better comfort while holding it. Price: $165-195. Ice axe length vs height sizing chart for ski touringBuyer’s guide: best ice axe for beginners in 2019 • climb tall peaks Axe ice length expocafeperu chartIce axe length for steel climbing rainier. Because low weight is the main design priority for ski mountaineering axes, their minimalist shaft is short and usually only ‘B’ rated. weight Ice Climbing: Ice axes are crucial for climbing frozen waterfalls and ice formations. Web learn how to choose the right ice axe for different types of terrain and climbing routes. Traverse or Ski Mountaineering Ice Axe. If you do slip and fall, you'll use your ice axe to stop your fall—this is called self-arrest. If member of ski party punches down into a hidden crevasse on flat terrain, having a whippet is not going to help that member to arrest -- that one is going down into the crack (hopefully with their fall arrested by the rope before they hit something protruding, or get tightly _wedged_ between the narrowing falls Sep 26, 2023 · Ice axe anatomy Pick: The “blade” of the axe, used to swing into ice or during a self-arrest maneuver. 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. Its blade is more curved and aggressive, making it ideal for vertical ice climbing. There are two main pick shapes available for ski axes. In this video, Reuben from Next Adventure shows you how 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. We recommend a model with a short, straight shaft. Cassin CAMP USA Neve Ice Axe. 3 days ago · Best Budget Ice Axe: 4. 7 to 31. Apr 7, 2021 · Mike Lewis carries the Blue Ice Akila ice axes into the Colorado Backcountry for a day of alpine ice climbing. 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. 5 ft). In ski touring and ski mountaineering, the ice axe is only used when necessary and is not central to your activity. 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 Feb 12, 2024 · Finding the best ice axe can be tricky. Learn the nuances of gear selection for hiking, mountaineering, and technical climbs, and ensure your safety with our Mountain Logic recommendations. Jan 14, 2017 · Also I would like to challenge the "shorter is better" claim based on my experience with ice axes from 66cm to 45cm at a body height of 1,80m. The most important factor of an ice axe is its length. A longer ice axe can still be used well in 45° terrain. The bottom line is you can buy a lighter axe for specific applications, but you can't buy a better do-everything performer for as many alpine-oriented tasks. 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 Ice Axe for Ski Touring. Climbing tight corners, rubbing the pack against the wall as it hangs from an anchor, even a short-haul up a cruxy section can produce a tremendous amount of wear and tear in terms of fabric abrasion. Content blocked Please turn off your ad blocker. For reference I'm 5'5", 135lb male. The trick is to choose the best tool for the activities you take part in. I know there isn't the perfect allround model but i still have to start somewhere. Feb 5, 2021 · Most mountaineering axes come with B ratings meaning they are lighter, cheaper and definitely not designed for belaying or mixed ice climbing – yet perfect for their intended uses of winter hiking, ski touring, glacier walking. Ice Axe Length Sizing Chart Vs Height For Ski Mountaineering Ice Axe Length For Ski Mountaineering Longer axes are easier to plunge on flatter terrain, while shorter axes are easier to use in steep terrain. it can also be a bit fiddly, and if it falls off, whoops. Dec 25, 2024 · Ski mountaineering axe. 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. It also has a bottom grip to improve control and precision. As with most gear, it's important to consider the weight of your ice axe and its size and shape. 1 oz (52 cm) Shaft Rating; T Head Rating: B. Most routes involve a lot more trekking where ski poles are handy and you only need an ice axe when the terrain gets steeper. The average ice axe will be between 50cm and 75cm. For Scottish mixed: DMM SWITCH £218. Moved Permanently. 2 Flag 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. General Mountaineering Ice Axes. Alpine Climbing: Ice axes are used for mixed climbing, which combines rock and ice climbing, and for traversing glaciers and snowfields. 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. I’m thinking about ice axes and crampons here, but even harnesses, helmets, and ropes don’t make much of an appearance outside the rock climbing world. 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 type of tool is suitable for glacier travel, ski mountaineering and winter walking where reduced weight is important. Jan 12, 2023 · From glacier travel to ice climbing, the best ice axes will provide the security needed to scale those big, intimidating slopes. What Length Ice Axe For Ski Touring Ice Axe Length Height Ice Axe Length Mountaineering Ice Axe Length Sizing Rhea Lowery Outdoor Gear February 01st, 2020 - 04:00:42 Outbackadventures. climbingthesevensummits. One thing to keep in mind is that your ice axe will most likely be on your backpack more than your hand. SEE MORE We are Blue Ice Ultralight at just 230g (50cm), the Hummingbird ice axe is ideal for technical mountaineering, high-alpine skiing or competitive ski mountaineering. The technical or ice climbing ice axe is shorter and lighter than the classic one. Feb 26, 2024 · When ski mountaineering, the ice axe is typically used in conjunction with crampons to navigate icy slopes and technical sections with greater confidence and safety. Web learn how to choose the right ice axe for your winter climbing needs, from walking to technical axes, with tips on length, shape, leashes and accessories. Generally, for an ice tool, you are going to be looking less at the length of the shaft, and more at the features of the tool. 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. They provide traction and allow climbers to anchor themselves to the ice. The axe’s teeth generally extend only partway up the pick from its tip. If you are taller than 5’8”, then try a 60-75cm ice axe. Feb 14, 2024 · Generally, we’d say that an axe between 55cm and 65cm / 21 and 25in is the most versatile option for hill walking and mountaineering. The top of the axe should reach your ankle or slightly above it. Petzl Sum-Tec Notes: The sliding trigrest is an interesting feature. Note that wrist leashes should be removed from your axe. 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. Jan 12, 2022 · Great tips on what to look for when buying your ice axe and why there are so many different ones for winter walking, winter climbing, mountaineering, ski-touring and ice climbing. The best way to estimate is to hold an axe by its head. officially approved for ski mountaineering competitions. As such, don’t fall into the trap of getting a “cane”. Dec 11, 2019 · Do You Need an Ice Axe. . It has a straight shaft, made of anodised aluminium tubing, and the slightest of curves in the head. These are your traditional, garden-variety mountaineering ice axes. Many ice axes are within the 50 to 75 cm range (1. Sep 26, 2022 · How do you select an ice axe for mountaineering? Gear Guide Presented by Climbing The Seven Summits www. Its aluminum shaft promises extreme lightness and solidity. The shaft is cut at the end to save weight and is primarily designed for ski mountaineering and light mountaineering. 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. A classic curved pick works best for self-arrest and snow climbing, while a sharp, recurved pick works best for steep ice and névé climbing but is less predictable in a self-arrest situation. 5 Sep 29, 2013 · Length/s: 43/52/59 cm Weight: 17. [Photo] Yaroslav Lototskyy. Some equipment like ropes and helmets shouldn't be donated, but your ice axe could find a second life if gifted to a local climbing club. com In this video I talk through a few different Petzl Ice axes and how to make better choices when buying your first tool or tools. 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 Jun 10, 2019 · How to Size an Ice Tool. Size Guide for Ice-Axes IceAxe Sizing Tool Europe Blue Ice EU. 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. Over the last hundred years or so of mountaineering, ice axe sizing and styles have changed greatly. Ultralight at just 230g (50cm), the Hummingbird ice tool is ideal for technical mountaineering, high-alpine skiing or competitive ski mountaineering. A super light ice axe may make a good emergency tool for ski tourers. When in doubt, a shorter ice axe is better than a longer axe. Navigate snow and ice with confidence using our detailed guide to choosing ice axes and crampons. 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. 54; Best for ice hiking, general mountaineering; Length (inches): 19. Choosing the right size ice axe can be a critical part of having a successful ski touring or mountaineering experience. Classic mountaineering style, at least 50cm long, up to 75cm. Mountaineering: Ice axes are essential for Light and minimal ice axe for ski touring and light mountaineering, with G-bone shaft, adze version. We recommend the following size as a general guideline to follow. They’re typically straight-shafted, boast a fairly level and straight-edged adze, and have positive-curve pick with a 65- to 70-degree hooking angle. 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. 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. I currently use a 50cm ice axe for ski mountaineering. When it comes to ski mountaineering, the ideal size depends on your height. When you're mountaineering, you'll build snow anchors for added protection when traveling on a glacier, crossing steep slopes, or to aid in crevasse rescues. We carefully considered every model in this review after considering every possible option available in North America. The design of this type of ice axe is mainly for self arrest and basic mountaineering. The traverse Choosing The Right Size Ice Axe. The main criterion is thus lightness. 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. An ultralight ice axe for technical mountaineering and high-alpine skiing. Ice and snow climbing and glacier travel tend to be a bit nicer to fabric. Dec 14, 2022 · For ski mountaineering I use a Grivel Air Tech Racing, which is relatively lightweight, a lot stronger and more grippable, a “real“ ice axe compared with the Raven. Generally, if you are under 5’8” tall, you’ll want a 50-60cm long ice axe. Nov 24, 2024 · Tip: Ice axe sizes state the distance from the tip of the axe to the top of its head. However, personal preference and the slopes you expect to typically encounter may shorten the length. 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 For example, one of our guides is 6’1″ (185cm) and their longest ice axe is 60 cm. Snow anchors can be built using a variety of objects, such as an ice axe or ski, but a snow picket is the standard piece of equipment that many mountaineers carry. May 15, 2025 · Many hikers carry ice axes for early season trips in alpine regions or when trail conditions may include lingering snow patches. Nov 7, 2019 · Ice Axe. Reasons to choose a shorter ice axe: it weighs less; you’re going to be on steep terrain I'm currently looking into getting my first ice axe that fits my future endeavours best. They have various lengths and can either have a straight or curved shaft. 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. How do you choose the best ice axe for your needs? Whether you are looking for an ultralight model for ski mountaineering, one with a modular head for steeper snow routes and complex glacier climbs, or a solid all-arounder to handle the full gambit of routes and conditions, we highlight some key factors to consider below. What to do with old ice axes. Different picks for the medium you will be climbing (water ice, alpine ice, mixed, or rock). Its titanium head is as light as aluminum but as solid as steel. The following information focuses solely on choosing a mountaineering ice Don't wait until you're standing on an exposed slope to have your axe in hand. More info at: www. Find out how to size a classic, hybrid, or ice tool axe and. Type 1: These are typically walking or mountaineering axes with the minimum necessary strengths for ice axe belaying. 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 Aug 12, 2022 · Mountaineering requires a few pieces of gear that are somewhat exclusive to the sport. The ice axe should barely skim the ground. Amazon price $77. com. However, it is less effective on softer or snow-covered terrain. Thinking of the Petzl Summit and wondering about length and whether 52 or 59 cm. Heights 5'4” and under should use a 52 cm axe, 5'5'' to 6’0'' use a 59 cm axe, above 6'0'' use a 66 cm axe. or lightweight aluminium based ski mountaineering crampons for optimum size vs. May 13, 2021 · Routes with technical rock climbing are harsh on a pack's outer fabric. Before using your ice axe, you'll need to know its basic components: Pick: This is the sharp, pointed bottom end of the ice Harness, helmet, classic mountaineering ice axe, 12 point crampons, 1x sling, 1x prussic, 1x belay device, 2x screw gate karabiners. If you dip into various winter activities you are likely to need various tools. A metal dogbone ice tool attachment provides a secure attachment for technical ice tools and mountaineering axes, while a tuck-away rope strap secures even more gear to the outside. Jan 28, 2022 · The biggest thing worth noting is that if you're primarily using your ice axe for early season backpacking or ski mountaineering, or less technical terrain, a lighter axe will do the trick. It won’t be efficient when climbing steep ice. The document has moved here. Get an ice axe that goes to around the bottom of your Aug 21, 2023 · My current mountaineering axe is 70cm and is heavy. jasybpii wjdkd xqp avertr ewoq wkktmmr hbrf ory gxqn hmxrjo