Ice Axe Sizing Chart

Hybrid ice axes are more aggressive than a traditional mountaineering axe yet less technical than an ice tool.

Ice axe sizing chart.

Technical mountaineering ice axes. Performance models for difficult snow ice and mixed climbs. Axes used for technical ice climbing are actually called ice tools rather than ice axes. When you shop for an ice axe you ll need to know its basic components.

Long ice axes will get in the way of both of these things. Ice axe size by j4ever sun sep 25 2011 8 12 am 13 replies 12947 views last post by lcarreau tue sep 27 2011 8 56 pm size difference between ice axe and hammer. Parts of an ice axe. A longer axe though can be unwieldy to use during self arrest because the spike can catch in the snow and send you and your axe flying.

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. Performance ice axes with forged head and excellent anchoring qualities adapted to the multitude of configurations of alpine terrain. In this method of ice axe sizing you will stand up straight and allow the ice axe to hang from your hand. For steep mountaineering the above is absolutely true.

By drmanhattan tue dec 15 2015 10 40 am 7 replies 3074 views last post by seano fri dec. While many people use ice axe loosely to describe the tools used for both mountaineering and vertical ice mixed climbing they technically have different names. With the flat of the handle resting against your palm the head of the ice axe should reach the middle of your ankle. Axes in this category are effective for climbing steeper sections of ice and hard snow while still remaining useful on sections of less technical terrain.

However personal preference and the slopes you expect to typically encounter may shorten the length. The petzl sum tec is a best mountaineering ice axe that is a bit pricey but comes with a slider for a leash a pick that is good for ice climbing and an adze great for chopping. 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. The ice axe for many is a mountaineering symbol that evokes images of rugged glaciated peaks and above the cloud summits it s an essential safety tool for mountaineering adventures whether you use it to maintain balance or to self arrest and stop yourself from a fall.

The grivel air tech evolution ice axe is cheaper and lighter comes with a leash and is durable and sturdy for solid anchors on alpine ascents yet performs well on steep climbs. The biggest reason for the short length is dexterity at steep grades and during a self arrest. They feature a curved shaft a rubber grip or hand rest and a reverse curve pick. This method can be adjusted a few inches longer or shorter to compensate for personal taste.