Table of Contents
How do you pick an ice axe?
The trick to figuring out which length axe you need for mountaineering is to stand up straight and hold the axe by its head. If the spike falls below your ankle, then the axe is too long for you. Ideally, the spike should be somewhere between the bottom half of your calf and the top of your ankle.
What size ice ax should I get?
Measure by height…
| HEIGHT | LENGTH NEEDED (APPROXIMATELY) |
|---|---|
| 5’8″ or less | 50 cm to 60 cm |
| 5’8 to 6’0 | 60 cm to 70 cm |
| Greater than 6’0″ | 60 cm to 75 cm |
How do I choose an ice tool?
How to Choose an Ice Axe
- Classic length (sized from the base of the thumb to the ankle)
- Straight aluminum shaft; or a curved shaft if routes involve lots of steep terrain.
- Comfortable grip is a plus.
- Steel head with a classic-curve pick.
Do I need 1 or 2 ice axes?
Steep to Vertical Terrain When getting into very steep or vertical terrain, the route may require the use of two axes – generally one hybrid axe, and one ice tool; or potentially two ice tools for truly vertical terrain and beyond.
Do I need an ice axe?
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.
Do ice axes come in pairs?
Technical ice tools often come in pairs with a pick on one side and a hammer on the other. Buying both together often give one a bit of a discount.
What is the best ice axe?
Given its low weight, the Corsa ice axe does not perform well for chopping steps, pounding ice or climbing in steep terrain. However, if you want the lightest option for self-arrest in moderately steep terrain combined with snow anchor options and securing a traverse, the Camp USA Corsa is the best lightweight ice axe.
What’s a good length for an ice axe?
How long should an ice axe be? In general, technical ice tools are only available in one length (which can vary by brand/model, but is typically around 50 cm). But mountaineering ice axes are available in several lengths, usually from 55 to 75 cm (normally sold in 5 cm increments).
What do you use an ice axe for?
Ice axe. An ice axe is not only used as an aid to climbing, but also as a means of self-arrest in the event of a downhill slip. Most ice axes meet design and manufacturing standards of organizations such as the Union Internationale des Associations d’Alpinisme ( UIAA ) or European Committee for Standardization .
How to use an ice ax?
Provide support and balance when walking over snow or ice. It will act as the equivalent of a hiking stick..