Ice axe length An Ice Axe Fitting Guide. While they may not be as maneuverable as shorter axes, they offer significant advantages in certain situations: Jan 10, 2007 · Similarly, the correct length facilitates using the ice axe in self-arrest, or as a swing tool on steeper slopes, or when chopping hard snow and ice to create a tent or resting platform. Apr 2, 2008 · After falling down about 400 feet this winter hiking for turns I realized I might want to invest in an ice axe if I want to not re-hike for turns. Factors to Choose the Right Ice Axe Length. Partners Author Topic: Ice Axe Length (Read 6304 times) Quack. He wasn't happy Designed for classic mountaineering, the SUMMIT EVO ice axe is the tool of choice for all types of alpine trips. When I cycle in temp's in the 20's, I feel the wind/air on my arms and chest For your height, 50-60 cm is the recommended ice axe length. Multiply that by one-third of your body weight, then add Sep 29, 2013 · Choosing an Ice Axe Length: The length of an axe dictates where it’s useful. It should just barely touch the floor to be the correct length. For a vertical ice climb (which I doubt) you want a North Wall Hammer, which is considerably shorter. g. They usually come in more than one length and you should choose the length according to your height. It provides more stability on low angle snowy terrain than trekking poles at a fraction of the weight of a certified ice axe. Ice Axe Length. I’d recommend looking at used, since many people buy long, straight axes and then realize they want something more aggressive. Nov 5, 2010 · For a general purpose ice axe, you hold the axe head in your right hand and let the shaft extend to the floor. The longer the axe, the more effort it takes to lift it high enough to plunge into steep snow slopes. 99. This distance Feb 12, 2024 · Rumoured to be the lightest ice axe in the world, the CAMP Corsa Ice Axe only weighs 202g at its shortest length – less than half the weight of an average ice axe. Thinking of the Petzl Summit and wondering about length and whether 52 or 59 cm. Ice axes for climbing are generally shorter than those for walking. Thread starter marty; Start date Mar 13, 2008; Help Support vftt. When Auckland Museum produced ‘Sir Edmund Hillary: Everest and Beyond’ in 2003, the exhibition’s centre piece was the axe with which he summited Everest. Length: Ice axes for hiking and general mountaineering are longer than ice axes for climbing so that they can offer you support while walking on icy trails (like hiking poles). Length 50 cm. At 200g (in 45cm length), it is easy to forget that you even have an axe on/in your pack. Generally, ice axes for softer terrain should be longer, while those for ice climbing should be shorter. I can see the merits of each argument. They Hand to ankle is an absolute maximum, not a rule!! Best for snow sloggers over walking paths, but is a burden on anything graded. Lightweight and with a waterjet-formed tube, it offers a very comfortable grip under the head of the axe. 7. Sep 18, 2003 · The usual method for determining the proper ice axe length goes like this: Divide your femur length by the angle of your shoulder slope. 1 day ago · Best Budget Ice Axe: 4. Ice axes vary in length from 50cm to 75cm. Login Register search A A Oct 30, 2020 · Backcountry, snowy conditions will tend to a longer, lighter axe, while quick climbs and steep ascents will call for a shorter, sharper ice tool. 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. In this terrain, an ice ax is there to pro An ultralight ice axe for technical mountaineering and high-alpine skiing. Material: aluminium, rubber, polyester The TiCa Ice Tool is the lightest way to cross high country snow fields. Modern axes are sold in 45 cm to 75 cm lengths. Everything from simple glissading techniques and tips to get down a mountain while climbing or backpacking with ice axes and trekking poles. com So whatever axe length you train with is the right one for you! Two great ice axes on the market right now are the Petzl Sum’tec and Black Diamond Venom, with an adze rather than a hammer for general mountaineering. I am 6'1''. Mountaineering ice axes typically range from 60 to 75 centimeters, while technical This is to say that I will be using an ice axe for both climbing steep slopes and as a hiking pole. However, the head of the Petzl ride comes to a narrower taper, and the Ride has a wider adze. Amazon price $83. Oct 1, 2021 · Since most ice axes have a length expressed in centimeters, take this measurement in centimeters. The 7075-series aluminium also provides durability and dependability. Ice axe sizes state the distance from the tip of the axe to the top of its head; sizes are listed in centimeters because ice axes originated in Europe. However, personal preference and the slopes you expect to typically encounter may shorten the length. If your ice axe is too long on the other hand, it could prove unhelpful for use in self-arrest. 3 mm) and versatile across different types of terrain: snow, ice, and mixed - Compatible with MASSELOTTES weights to modify the balance and improve the inertia of the ice axe; The ALPEN ADAPT system makes it completely modular: - Entirely modular head allows the technical aspects of the ice axe to be adjusted Since the most common ice axe length is 50cm that is the length we use for our weight filter. In Detectives On Everest, they describe a search directly below the cave on a sandy bench. Regular price Sale price $169. The biggest reason for the short length is dexterity at steep grades and during a self arrest. I've owned 4 pairs of Chouinard/BD ice tools, 4 pairs of Charlet-Moser/Petzl ice tools, one pair of Grivel Ice Tools, one SMC/REI ice axe, one SMC Himalayan North Wall Hammer, and one Grivel ice axe. I ce axes are not a new tool, in fact they have been around for hundreds of years. Climbers usually prefer shorter axes. The CEN standard for ice tools is EN13089, with the UIAA 152 safety label being broadly similar with a few additional requirements. An axe of the correct length should reach the Ice axes are meant to be used on the uphill side, which is already much higher. Even if you think to yourself, "But the item I want is only available in Japan. Aug 21, 2023 · My current mountaineering axe is 70cm and is heavy. It was insured at the time for $1million Air Tech Light Ice Axe + G-Slider. Oct 18, 2020 · How to mountain glissade safely. Am wondering what length ice axe you would recommend for non-technical (at least hopefully) winter trail hiking. Nov 25, 2020 · Length: The length of your ice axe is crucial for proper functionality and safety. This refers to the back of the ice axe head (opposite the pick). 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. ” My axe of choice for that route was a BD Raven Ultra in 55cm. 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. Nov 24, 2024 · How Long Should An Ice Axe Be? As you shop for your mountaineering ice axe, you’ll notice that the lengths range from 55 to 75 cm. Here’s how to find the correct size: Breaking down an Ice Axe. 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. Perfect for ski tours and freeriding. This is the Holy Grail for non-technical skimo axes; forget it ‘til you need it. It is perfect for technical rando races and Feb 19, 2007 · I love softshell (fabric that breathes but is not waterproof) materials. Banner in the Sierra Nevada. Glacier Linkin Trail Talk . Super light and a workable length. My take: no pockets so it's not a great alpine jacket. May 11, 2012 · Axe length is a topic that has been beat so much. - ICE pick is tapered at the tip (3. I'm 5'9" and my partner is 5'11". I'm considering buying one of those hybrid axes but after climbing for 20 years I still get by without. Normally ice tools that are meant for climbing are shorter, compared to models that were designed for mountaineering which are generally longer. It's the brainchild of the late Uli Steck (with influence from Kilian Journet and Colin Haley, and others) who wanted a lighter less technical ice tool that could perform the basic functionalities of an ice axe, without giving up a pick that offers a high level of technical performance. Oct 19, 2018 · In the late 19th century, the typical ice axe shaft measured 120–130 cm in length, more like a walking pole. Try several in the hand if possible: the head and grip of some are more comfortable to hold than others. There is a balance that you need to find, it shouldn’t be too long nor should it be too short. The CAMP Corsa Ice axe is ridiculously lightweight. Anything 30 degrees and under I feel like the chances of slipping are small, and don't need to plunge the ice axe as a self belay. Both climbing up and skiing down firm, steep snow can be harrowing and insecure. I could go a little shorter but I haven't found one close to the length of my old one. If you solely want it for steep couloirs I would roughly recommend something in the 55-60cm range (caveat, I don’t know how tall you are or the Trip Reports . 3 mm) and versatile across different types of terrain: snow, ice, and mixed - Compatible with MASSELOTTES weights to modify the balance and improve the inertia of the ice axe; The ALPEN ADAPT system makes it completely modular: - Entirely modular head allows the technical aspects of the ice axe to be adjusted 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. Mar 20, 2019 · The Petzl Sum'Tec is a true hybrid of a traditional ice axe and an ice tool. Old timers may remember when ice axes were about waist high, as shown in the photo below from 1970 of a party ascending Mt. org: Since invention of the ice axe the length and methods how to determine appropriate length of ice axe have been constantly changing. A shorter axe is lighter and better for swinging than a longer axe. 7 to 31. But I’ve seen hiking groups sit down and take 20 minutes to struggle into crampons to cross a 20-foot ice patch and then sit down again to take them all off. 94; Best for ice hiking, general mountaineering; Length (inches): 19. Knowing all the parts of an ice axe is a good first step to buying one: The Head: Composed of the pick, a carabiner hole, and an adze (or a hammer). Technical ice tools are typically the same length, measuring 50cm. Balancing technical prowess, rugged durability, lightweight, and an approachable price point, the Nov 12, 2007 · Hi I wish to buy an ice axe (a Grivel Munro) to be used mainly for walking but am confused by the advice on choosing the correct length. 5cm Made in Switzerland EUR USD CAD INR GBP AUD JPY Length is important when shopping for an ice axe for ice climbing or ski touring. I think people often treat ice axes as walking sticks on moderately steep slopes. com Ice Axe Length. 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. For walkers I think axes that reach the ankle bone when held at the side are best as these can be used for support on gentle slopes without having to stoop, and are easier to thrust into the snow below you during descents. Mar 16, 2025 · The recommended ice axe length for optimal safety and performance in mountaineering activities is typically around 60-75 cm for a person of average height. In the past, it was very long and used mostly as a walking cane. Apr 25, 2006 · Brian Wilkins, a mountaineer from New Zealand, has some thoughts about the history of climbing equipment, and especially ice axe length. If you will be doing a lot of hiking and using your ice axe only occasionally, to reduce weight, it is generally safe to purchase an ice axe that is up to 10 centimeters shorter than your ideal length. Designed for classic mountaineering, the SUMMIT EVO ice axe is the tool of choice for all types of alpine trips. Jan 17, 2024 · The Petzl Summit Evo is a versatile mountaineering axe for alpine climbing. ∙ 3h ago. The technical design of the curved shaft provides the necessary clearance on steep, icy terrain. My rule of thumb, is that if you need a shorter ice axe length due to terrain steepness, then you probably would not be able to self arrest anyways and therefore need to practice, not slipping, not slipping, not slipping, and not - ICE pick is tapered at the tip (3. I'd love to find another axe of the same length but new and made with a lighter tube. General Mountaineering Ice Axes. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee yeah, but in a jong's defense, it's not very intuitive to have to search on only "length" to get ice axe info. Apr 1, 2022 · VIDEO DESCRIPTION: Another educational video, this one discussing the style and length of ice axe to pick for yourself when contemplating said purchase. 5. The tool was developed in the Backpackinglight forums and is built in Toronto, Canada. LENGTH: ICE AXE VS. Brian Wilkin's comments and illustrations follow (Photos Ultra-light ice axe: 280 g; Very technical and efficient: - ice axe with steel head and banana-shaped pick that is tapered to 3 mm for efficient penetration and easy unhooking - minimalist adze and hammer for cleaning holds or hammering a piton back in Jan 28, 2015 · Choosing your ice axe. 0 (4) 4 total reviews The appropriate length of an ice axe is typically determined by your height and the type of terrain. Length. ice climbing or mixed climbing) conditions. Shaft Diameter There are two main types of shaft diameters for ice axes, classic and performance. Ice axe review Ice axes for general mountaineering, by contrast, may range from 40 to 90 centimeters in length. Though we’ve listed out all the above as ice axes, there is a technical distinction between ice axes and ice tools. 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. The right ice axe for your climb is selected based on intended use, weight, and length. You need not be able to use your ice axe as a walking stick on flat ground. Petzl says Ultra-light and very compact, the RIDE ice axe go's everywhere with you… Apr 26, 2017 · Having the 400 yards out, we need to go back 250 yards to get to the ice axe: This puts the ice axe well east of the cave. For It means the length an ice axe should be to walk with, and this is how that style of ice axe is measured. Oct 6, 2015 · This length offers the best compromise of balance and appropriate length for use on steep snow slopes". Full Member; Posts: 137; Ice Axe Length « on: 19:32:55, 11/08/10 NORTH COULOIR is a technical ice axe with fully modular head for adapting the ice axe to all the various activities. Long ice axes will get in the way of both of these things. Weight. We both use identical axes in a 58cm length and have never wished for anything longer. However, your axe is also there to aid the arrest of a slip, slide or fall. Think of it like sledding on your butt without the sled. Additionally, the head size should fit comfortably in your hand and provide enough leverage for easy use. Partners Jan 13, 2025 · The first-ever ice axe was the alpenstock, a long wooden pole with an iron spike tip, that was used by shepherds for travel on snowfields and glaciers in the Alps hundreds of years ago. Most straight handled pure-walking axes are made at that length (BD raven etc) Jun 10, 2019 · In addition to use during glacial travel, an axe like Petzl’s Glacier Ice Axe provides lightweight performance with a steel pick and an adze for chopping tent platforms or building a snow anchor. Your correct length depends on your height, personal preference and the terrain you’ll encounter. Feb 16, 2011 · Steep slopes/technical ice = substantially shorter to lower swing weight and length of the shaft needed for self belay. So, choosing the right ice axe length is important, but the good news is, it’s also quite easy. However if you will be using the axe often then heavier ones are better for step cutting and the extra weight can make them feel more secure. Dec 14, 2020 · If so, you have probably encountered firm conditions in steep terrain. ” He was right. The SUM’TEC ice axe is extremely versatile: it adapts easily to different mountaineering activities, from classic to technical. For moderate terrain, you will want to size your ice axe a little longer than you might otherwise. Tip: Ice axe sizes state the distance from the tip of the axe to the top of its head. Or better still, if you get the chance to try it out, the difference between your shoulder height and arm length. Petzl. The Pick: The Technical Mountaineering Ice Axes. I'm 5'10. These ice axes were all tested during the winter 2020/21 season during Lucy’s work as a Winter Mountain Leader and play (when she was locked down on Ice ax length depends as much on steepness of terrain as on height, the steeper the terrain the shorter the ax. Choosing the Right Ice-Axe Length. Standard and additional The Single Spring Light Plus from Grivel is designed so that the tool is not lost during use. Weight is an important factor, especially if you will be carrying the ice axe during Compatible with Petzl accessories (not included): Pur'Ice, Mini Marteau and Masselotte weights to modify the balance and improve the inertia of the ice axe; Handrest is height adjustable without tools and folds in easily for planting the ice axe in snow; connection hole is compatible with V-LINK elasticated loss-prevention webbing Related Searches. Though designed primarily for technical mountaineering, it also shines in hiking and glacial travel. Most people that advocate for longer ice axes claim you need then extension in order to get leverage when self arresting. For example, if you are into steep mountaineering, a long walking axe is not the best idea. – Aug 16, 2018 · PETZL - Gully, Ultralight Ice Axe for Technical Mountaineering and Skiing, Adze. Qty: Add to Cart. Feb 14, 2024 · As its name suggests, this is an axe primarily intended for glacier travel. Feb 9, 2025 · Related Searches. The hood is not helmet compatible (dag!). you can throw on a Ice axe standards and ratings. Tools for more technical climbing are designed with shorter, bent shafts and more aggressive picks. A mountaineering ice axe provides useful support when walking. Insertion into the ice axe is done via a simple toggle that is blocked by a rubber (without the help of a carabiner). Ergonomic, easy to manipulate ice axes that allow multiple grips and have very high anchoring qualities in ice. Handles on the bottom of shaft greatly compromise your ability to plunge the ice axe into snow. The Shaft: Made of steel, aluminum, or carbon fiber. How to Size a Classic Axe. FWIW, I have a 70 cm, 60 cm and 50cm axes/ice tools for the above conditions and I am 5’9″. CAMP USA. Regular price $169. The Petzl Ride Ice Axe, and the Camp Corsa Alpine Ice Axe possess a lot of similarities. Shop for Ice Axes. As others have said, your ice axe is for self arrest and not a walking stick. I have the Hondini jacket for running and cycling. Login Register search A A Aug 22, 2018 · In the early 1960's Hamish MacInnes and Benjamin and Steven Massey started production of the first ice axes made entirely of metal called the MacInnes Massey ice axe. But there are many different types of ice axes out there, and they are all designed for various aspects of climbing. if going for a 2nd axe, i would highly recommend something with interchangeable picks like the venom or sum'tec. 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. ICE TOOL. Mar 21, 2019 · At 7. 5 Mar 12, 2021 · i find that my 57cm BD venom gets pulled out way more than my 65cm straight shaft raven on anything remotely technical. Apr 27, 2011 · They are axes meant for climbing steep snow and ice slopes, not walking sticks. Seems to be a lost art today. G. The lighter axes are fine for backpacking and hillwalking. For ice axes/piolets, the Petzl Summit Evo is the nicest axe I have owned. The Ride is an ultra-light and compact ice axe that can fit in just about every rucksack thanks to it's short 45cm length. The weight, curvature, and material of the shaft all influence what activity the ice axe is best for. A wooden shaft ice axe from the 1970s. May 24, 2009 · Brian Wilkins, a mountaineer from New Zealand, has some thoughts about the history of climbing equipment, and especially ice axe length. It is not clear if they went as far east as where I place the ice axe: From the Apr 16, 2009 · A technical ice tool/ski mountaineering axe is typically shorter, anywhere from 10-20 cm. Oscar Eckstein a British climber, started the trend toward shorter ice axes with a lighter model measuring 85–86 cm. X-Light Axe. – See full list on outdoorgearlab. 0 / 5. 2 4 get one - but that's not what an ice axe is for. the problem is that with search function here, you can't search for words less than 4 letters, "ice" and "axe" both being the case. Generally, a shorter ice axe is preferable as it increases balance and stability in steeper terrain. A 75 cm axe is quite long, and most people will find that it touches the ground on nearly flat terrain. Referred to as “ice tools” for vertical ice (>60° slopes), used in pairs. May 25, 2022 · According to Grivel, the first genuine ice axe was created around the 1840s. $229. These ice axes were infinitely more durable than the wooden axes that came before, and were less prone to snap under pressure or if stored at incorrect temperature or humidity. No model is as much of a blend between a traditional ice axe and an ice tool than the Petzl Sum'tec, and that's a good thing. Then manufactures started to produce shorter ice axes with suggestions that ice axe should be of the length to touch the ground with the arm Trail Talk . In 1786, Jacques Balmat and Michel-Gabriel Paccard made the first ascent of Mont Blanc using an alpenstock and small axe. This as a standard, is a little old fashioned. I've been told that one way is to hold the axe and the point should be about 3 inches from the ground but I want to buy online and am unable to do this. The hammer is designed to smash in pitons, pickets and snow anchors. Grivel. Thanks, marty Ice axe 1 – pick 2 – head 3 – adze 4 – leash 5 – leash stop 6 – shaft with rubber grip 7 – spike. A good ice axe ought to be a trusty companion on winter adventures, your pointy metal pal on snow and ice-covered hills. Agree with this. An ice axe is a multi-purpose hiking and climbing tool used by mountaineers in both the ascent and descent of routes that involve snow or ice covered (e. Photo: iStock LENGTH. Here's how to find your correct axe size for a classic mountaineering axe: Jan 14, 2022 · If your ice axe is too short, it could actually pose a risk as the head could end up too close to your vital organs during self-arrest. Blade Length ‎50 Centimeters : Blade Edge ‎Straight : Head Weight ‎4E+1 Grams : Mar 10, 2022 · Lengths. Jan 3, 2019 · 7. Performance models for difficult snow, ice and mixed climbs. 83m, and perhaps ideally 60cm would have suited me better, I do find this shortest length of the Spire a decent size for winter walking. Photo Galleries; My Photo Gallery; Latest Photos; Weekly Top 10; Videos; Latest Videos; Categories; Hashtags; Athletes; Search Jan 29, 2021 · Another use for the long handled general ice axe is chopping steps with the adze. But actually, its versatile design makes it one of the best all-round hill walking and mountaineering ice axes on the market, thanks to a surprisingly capable pick and adze, a comfortable and streamlined head shape and a lightweight but sturdy build that ensures it is both easy to carry and nice to use. Dec 25, 2024 · Choosing an ice axe. In the past the standard way to choose a walking axe was to hold the axe head in your hand, and hang your arm by your side. Is Saved Content. The length. Length of shaft: 52 cm: 52 cm Dec 20, 2013 · "Ice axe length has fairly little relevance to your height" I think with tech axes you are right, but for walking / alpine axes where typically the axe is used more in Cane position than anything else (and where having a longer axe is less of a problem as the climbing is easy) then the correct length of axe does have relevance to the users height. Brian Frankle started Ula Equipment shortly after he through-hiked the PCT. Heads designed differently from classic ice axes. For ice axes, adze's are (by far) the most common. Additionally, the shaft of the Petzl Ride has a more significant curve. fyi it's better to use google to search TGR: ice axe site:tetongravity. The TiCa Ice Apr 5, 2025 · Does anybody know how to size oneself for ice axe length? Is it personal preference? I'm 5'8" (175 cm), and would mostly use it for traversing The new DMM axe range is the result of 30 years of technical knowledge combined with valuable feedback from a broad range of climbers. I think this is too short. I have seen there is a wide variety of ice axes, mainly I assume I am interested in a more general purpose one such as the Petzl Summit or the BD Raven Grip. Aug 19, 2020 · Two things are immediately apparent when in the presence of this axe: its minimal weight and fine craftsmanship. The length you opt to select will be based primarily on the use and your comfort on varying steep terrain. Mar 15, 2012 · The length of my current "old" axe is pretty good. 95. $159. It was inspired by traditional hill walking axes, but built with modern ultralight materials. When available, we list the weight for each length on each individual Mar 9, 2024 · The head of an ice axe is always made of steel for better durability. Ice axes are often bigger and sport a more classic look. General mountaineering axes are lightweight with a long shaft. Dark Machine X Ice Axe. For general mountaineering, you want an axe that offers a good balance between length and weight, giving you the necessary stability, without being big, heavy and cumbersome. 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 Jan 6, 2025 · Remember, you can always adjust the length of your ice axe by using the pick extension feature (if available) or by rapping the head of the ice axe on a hard surface. When it comes to sizing an ice axe, the key metric is your height. Why you might need a shorter ice axe. Nov 29, 2023 · Long Length Ice Axes. Login Register search A A Jan 12, 2023 · An ice axe is a tool that is used by mountaineers to scale steep slopes that are covered with snow and ice. And when you say you used your friend’s ice axe, was it a straight-shafted axe or a hybrid or an ice tool? I can see how you might think it’s short if you used it for hiking and climbing support. The Sum'tec is the brainchild of the late Ueli Steck (along Jan 1, 2017 · The axes reviewed weigh between 280 and 650g. The ideal sizing will depend on personal preference and the type of axe you’re using. I never really bought into this classic measurement of ice axe length. –B. Ice axe sizes are measured from the tip to the top of the head, listed in centimeters. ". 5 cmFull head length: 30. Apr 9, 2004 · Hi all - My recent internet research has unveiled some debate between longer and shorter lengths for ice axes. I was just wondering what length of an ice axe should I get? I don't (and probably never will) ice climb and i am 6'3 out of boots. Shaft length. I currently use a 50cm ice axe for ski mountaineering. Jan 22, 2025 · Back in 1958 mountaineer Godfrey Francis wrote: “Buying an axe should be the beginning of a long partnership. Any advice would be great, any harassment will be enjoyed Oct 21, 2024 · The length of the ice axe that you choose is quite important. As a mountaineer, having a set of ice axes in your climbing arsenal is definitely a sound idea. AnswerBot. Lands /History. Nov 29, 2023 · Medium length ice axes, typically ranging from 60 to 70 centimeters, strike a balance between maneuverability and versatility. This length of ice axe has a few problems. Generally speaking, you’ve got shorter ice axes and longer ice axes. But here's the thing--if you fall on a steep section where your only hope is self arrest good luck stopping yourself. There have been a few seasons of change in ice axe development, starting in the mid 1800s with the traditional Alpenstock (a long pole with a metal spike on the end that has been in use since the 1750s) being adapted to feature a forward facing pick. 4 ounces for the 50cm length, this is the lightest CEN-B rated ice axe in the world. The CEN standard has two categories, based on the strength of the shaft and pick. They offer a range of benefits that make them a popular choice for a wide range of climbers and climbing styles: Versatility: Medium length ice axes are well-suited for a variety of terrain and climbing techniques. If you’re set on a “walking” ice axe, 60cm is the absolute limit for vertical progression— any longer is just too cumbersome. Jan 11, 2025 · Length 80cm Head length 28cm. The Spire is available in a number of lengths: 55cm; 60cm; 65cm; 75cm; I've been using the 55cm version, and while I'm relatively tall at 1. Factors to consider when selecting the right mountaineering ice-axe length include your height—taller folks generally go for longer axes, for obvious reasons—but also what kind of high-country recreation you intend to be pursuing. The shaft length should be from your nose to the floor when standing up straight. Jan 12, 2022 · What length do I need? As we mentioned at the start, an ice axes’ job is to help reduce the chance of slips and trips while crossing snow and ice so you would expect a longer shaft to be a good thing. To aid in those situations, and to eliminate the need to bring an ice axe on your objective, a few manufacturers produce poles that also feature ice picks to help increase purchase in firm snow. The shaft was maintained with linseed oil about 25 years ago. Ice axes - Recommended ice axe length is significantly shorter. Original Vintage Fritsch and Co Ice Axe This Ice axe is in great condition! Marked “Fritsch and Co. Rhea Lowery Outdoor Gear February 01st, 2020 - 04:05:09. What length ice axe should I choose? Ice axe length is measured from the top of the head to the tip of the spike. Dec 3, 2016 · I do have the Petzl Summit Evo, and it is a fantastically gorgeous tool. There are a couple of ways to decide which length is right for you. The next step is learning ho Straight handle, no rubber grip, and ankle bone length is my preference for a basic ax, others may have different preferences. Gear /Food /Photo Apr 11, 2012 · It is customary to recommend an ice ax length that is 1-2" above the ground when held loosely in the hand. Add to Wish List Add to Compare. The underlying requirement was to make a set of tools that offer exceptional performance and are built to withstand the rigours of modern climbing by being ‘bombproof’ - sturdy, strong and dependable. May 24, 2022 · None of the axes have any handle like you can find on technical axes with the exception of The Petzl Gully Ice axe which has an adjustable trigger rest. However, I have seen that some of them have a slight curvature and some don't. Figure out the terrain you'll be on, then see what length feels most secure and comfortable for you with the ice axe positions (probably cane) you'll be using the most. Different Types of Ice Axe and their Uses. Mar 16, 2025 · Lucy Wallace reviewed axes with picks in the ‘Alpine’ style – gently curved and well suited to walking terrain and ice axe arrest. The correct length for an ice axe is debatable. Remember that the ice axe is not a walking stick, it is a tool for cutting steps in ice, and saving your life during a fall. I'm about 180cm and I prefer ~ 53 cm semi-curved axes with sharp picks. Longer axes are easier to plunge on flatter terrain, while shorter axes are easier to use in steep terrain. In steeper terrain shorter bent shaft ice axes are much easier to plunge or to use in the dagger position. The length of the ice axe should be proportional to your height and the activity you plan to undertake. a shorter axe climbs steep snow better and lets you move through short ice sections just fine, especially when paired with a more technical axe. Most climbers use an ice axe and most backpackers use poles to maintain control. $449. Both are designed to work well in low angle glacial terrain, but also perform on steep snow and ice up to about 75 degrees 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. budget-friendly ice axe for mountaineering ergonomic design ice axe for snow and ice chromoly steel ice axe for durability lightweight ice axe for easy handling ice axe with secure touring leash self-arrest ice axe for safety versatile ice axe for all-around use ice axe with multiple length options high strength-to-weight ratio ice axe easy-to-use ice axe for beginners ice It has the adze for making footsteps and stuff. Sure it makes some sacrifices in its functionality and versatility but performs well so long as conditions aren't too firm. The Mountaineering Council of Scotland: The Length of your Ice Axe? In a past edition of Scottish Mountaineer (SM6, December 2000) an article giving information and advice about winter mountaineering elicited many comments regarding what was considered to be the best length of an ice axe for climbing and for general mountaineering. Long length ice axes, typically ranging from 70 to 80 centimeters or longer, are primarily used in specific mountaineering scenarios where stability and leverage are paramount. Cassin CAMP USA Neve Ice Axe. If I need a hiking stick I'm just using hiking sticks, and I'll switch to the axe when a short axe is what I need, that is, when I'm into steeper terrain. Length The correct length for an ice axe is debatable. Technical Ice Axes From Cwm Idwal to classic alpine ice climbs in Chamonix a more technical axe is a necessity. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. 50 cm, 57 cm, 65 cm, 73 cm : Head Details Head Details. Feb 27, 2012 · I'll admit I have started becoming a much larger fan of 75+cm ice axes + trekking pole. They provide some much-needed traction and stability, and depending on the style, they can be used on routes that range from “easy” to “technical. Jan 28, 2022 · The number of different modular-headed ice axes has increased in the past few years, and manufacturers are responding to this rapidly growing hybrid category. Jan 22, 2025 · What is the best length for an ice axe? Ice axes are made in sizes usually between 45cm and 75cm, but can be longer. . When the terrain will be steep I use my ax with an ice tool or two ice tools. Zooming in, we can see the bench that was searched. Especially for moderate. Jan 14, 2017 · For steep mountaineering the above is absolutely true. Long pants - We require participants to wear long pants at all times on the glacier (abrasion and UV protection, cold protection in a crevasse fall). Mar 1, 2012 · The ice axe has seen a dramatic evolution in use and design over the past 100 years, by Ross Miller Surely, if one piece of equipment encapsulates the spirit of the mountaineer it is the ice axe. Their lengths tend to be between 50cm-60cm which is considered a compromise to permit an easier swing when climbing but has enough length to be used whilst hill walking. 1 color. To choose an ice axe, you will first need a clear idea of what terrain you will mostly be on. It is the full aluminium construction that gives the ice axe its low weight. The best length for an ice axe has made for great debate over the years. Black Diamond Raven ice axe reviews Best ice axe for steep icy couloirs Lightweight ice axe for mountaineering Durable stainless steel ice axe head Aluminum shaft ice axe for better grip Versatile ice axe for traversing glaciers Classic design ice axe with modern updates Ice axe with investment-cast head technology Secure placement ice axe for climbing Ice axe length options There are a number of different ice axes available in UK mountaineering shops. They have a similar weight, and both axes have a steel head and aluminum shaft. Lightweight elastic leash for ice axe length: 70 cm weight: 23 g polyester, rubber, aluminium. And they’re sold in 5cm increments. The best advice is probably to figure it out for yourself. They are designed to be used singly rather than as a pair. Why? The majority of travel on glaciers and other terrain when holding an ice ax will be on relatively low-angle slopes. Shop for Ice Axes at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. Zurich" Ice axe length: 80. rgzgo pclp zmaz biuu prmctd zymm uhe nnyrroc dfiz azcpi ahz yjxq tevi hqjmc yhytdr