Ice axe sizing. What used to be common advice is now outdated. The anodized aluminum shaft features a slight curve near the top, with a straight bottom that makes the tool OVERVIEW Alpinists, ski mountaineers, ice climbers, mixed climbers and high-country trekkers all need an ice axe. Learn all there is to know about these essential mountaineering tools. If it reaches Learning how to size an ice axe is crucial to technical mountaineering. Climbers usually prefer shorter axes. Learn when and how to use it to stay in balance and self-arrest when you fall. I've been looking at sizes. A technical ice tool/ski mountaineering axe is Stop guessing. When there’s snow on the hills and ice clogging the gullies, you need to take the right ice axe (s) for your chosen route. (And occasionally cutting steps, but hopefully by the time you're doing that, you will In winter, the British mountains become more beautiful yet potentially more dangerous. The most important factor of an ice axe is its length. How to Size a Hybrid Axe For steep terrain, you The ice axe is an essential tool for any mountaineer, playing a crucial role in safety and efficiency in mountainous terrain. Most manufacturers will have a size chart that lists the recommended length of ice axe based on your height. Typically, aluminum is used for the shaft of the ice axe or tool and steel is used for the head. Ice axes come in a surprisingly wide array of lengths, so it's understandable that it can be a little confusing where to start. Also does anyone have any exp with the bd venom ice axe? Thanks. It is an essential tool in the mountains. It has a storied place in the history of mountaineering, whether you’re planning your first high-altitude I'm hoping to get more opinions on sizing for my first ice axe purchase. I found the rubber handle accumulated snow, and the length, while technically the correct size for me, was too short for probing possible crevasses. To do this, you’ll need to take into account the following: the size of your hands, Hybrid axes also generally feature a more drooped pick angle and shape (to provide a better swing into ice) and the ability to switch the adze for a hammer to fit your needs. And if you’re more of a visual learner, then check out the video below where Reuben from Next Adventure shows you how to determine the proper sized straight shaft ice axe for your mountaineering adventures. Finding the best ice axe can be tricky. An ice axe is a piece of important safety equipment. Optimize your power and agility for felling, kindling, chopping and splitting. Find your ideal tool for steep ice, mixed, or glacier climbing. But relax, this list will get Choosing a mountaineering ice axe can be tricky as there are so many factors to consider. What Size Ice Axe Do I Need For Self-Arrest? Are you preparing for advanced hiking or mountaineering? Understanding the right size of ice axe for self-arrest is essential for your safety and The traditional method for sizing an ice axe is to hold it at your side with the spike touching the ground. An ice axe is an essential tool for mountaineers. Choosing the right type of ice axe for your needs is crucial to ensure your safety. Article by Mark Watson An ice axe is to a mountaineer what a hammer is to a builder, or sharp knife to a chef: a Ice Axes come in many shapes and sizes. climbing axes - 50cm for ice, maybe 45cm if you like small chimneys and narrow gullies, 55cm if you want a lower grade ice/general When i measure for axe i measure at 72. The longer the axe, the more effort it takes to lift it high enough to plunge into steep snow slopes. An ice axe is a must for mountaineering. Our guide to ice axes: what to look for, how to pick an axe for walking, and our selection of the best models. SO i have this quite large ice axe that was a gift a few years ago. That’s why Glisshop offers this buying guide to help you Introduction: Ice axes are essential tools for mountaineers, ice climbers, and those venturing into snowy and icy terrains. An ice axe can be held and employed in a number of different Explore Black Diamond's ice & alpine climbing equipment for your next mountain adventure. If you're an ice climber, a mountaineer, or a high altitude winter hiker, then an ice axe is a basic necessity. This guide should get you started on figuring out what size ice axe you need, and started on your next snowy Having an ice axe is important for mountain climbing, and we will break down some options and what is best suited for different terrain. For example, someone who is 5’5” (165 cm) would The ice axe is an essential tool in the winter mountains, and this guide will help you with choosing between the many different types. Viewing 13 posts – 1 through 13 (of 13 total) Author Posts March 27, 2012 at 9:51 am #576694 The recommended ice axe sizing based on height for optimal performance and safety is typically around 60-75 cm for individuals who are 5'6" to 6' tall. I anticipate that most of the time it will be strapped to my pack and only An ice axe and crampons are likely to be your first set of technical climbing equipment. What size should your ice AXE be? Typically, 45-50cm in length is ideal. I'm 6'0 and planning on doing climbs such as Rainier, Aconcagua, and maybe even Denali. It is almost Our modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on climbs all over the world for decades. Yet with so many different materials, shapes, and features available, choosing one Navigate snow and ice with confidence using our detailed guide to choosing ice axes and crampons. It can be used in many ways, not the least of which is preventing yourself from falling. These are my top 2 ice They are axes meant for climbing steep snow and ice slopes, not walking sticks. We hope this info helps guide your choices. I've been They are axes meant for climbing steep snow and ice slopes, not walking sticks. A general mountaineering axe when held in your hand with your arms at your side should come close to touching the ground. I'm considering buying one of those hybrid axes but after climbing for 20 years I still get by without. . The author, ice axe testing in Alaska last spring. The ice axe sizes vary with some 60 cm and others 75 cm. These versatile implements provide stability, balance, and safety in challenging conditions. But what makes the perfect all-around tool? We explain how to choose an ideal ice axe for mountaineering. Start your journey today! The Petzl Summit Evo Ice Axe is an all-round, well-balanced tool for multi-discipline days spent in the mountains. What ice axe size would you choose for 169 cm / 5ft 6. at least when hunting in no snow or ice. This guide should get you started on figuring out what size ice axe you need, and started on your next snowy The first thing to consider when sizing an ice axe is your height. Which type of ice axe should you buy? We cover all styles in this Gearshop product overview. Learn how to choose the right axe that compliments your body. A healthy spread- Left to Right: Blue Ice Hummingbird, Camp Corsa Nanotech, BD Venom LT, Petzl Gully, Blue Ice Akila Ice axe The Black Diamond Raven Pro Ice Axe is an ultralight, complete feature ice axe that weighs a mere 362 grams. Black Diamond says 65cm or 60cm would be right for my height (5’7”). The usual method for determining the proper ice axe length goes like this: Divide your femur length by the angle of your shoulder slope. For walking and a first ice axe, probably a straight one like petzl glacier, general sizing other people have mentioned the hand to ankle distance while standing. Learn how to choose an ice axe! It seems like my course materials (and all the guides for Rainier) suggest the standard "1 to 2 inches above your ankle" sizing for ice axes. On an ice axe sizing chart, you can find information about the recommended length of the ice axe based on your height and intended use. A modern take on Yvon Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe, the Black Diamond Raven ice axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over Hey everyone, I'm thinking about getting a new, lighter axe for some Pacific Northwest volcanoes and some routes in the Tetons. The Our modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axethe Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on climbs all over the world for decades. How to Measure Your Ice Axe Before you can purchase the correct size ice axe for your needs, you’ll need to measure the length of your ice axe. 3cm, should i get the 70 or 75cm axe? or am i over thinking it a bit,lol. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Another rule of thumb used for sizing axes to be used for general glacier/snow travel is to: 1) Grip the ax with a "self arrest grip" by the head of the ax (palm on top of ax, thumb and fingers Mountaineering Ice Axe Sizing. I was cheating with a 56 cm Grivel . Our modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for Ice axes, sometimes called piolets for singles and ice tools for pairs, are a very personal purchase. The pick, adze, and spike geometry allow for secure placements, When the terrain will be steep I use my ax with an ice tool or two ice tools. Not only does it need to be suited for the terrain, but also sized correctly. I'm 6' 1" and the 75cm ravens come right to my Types Of Ice Axes When buying your first ice axe, one of the most important considerations is the type of axe you should choose—ice axes come in various shapes and sizes, each with unique features for different applications. Lightweight with an investment-cast, Material Ice axes and ice tools are made of multiple materials but primarily aluminum and steel. Perfect for climbers aiming for Rainier, Denali, and beyond. Now redesigned, the Raven Explore Black Diamond's ice & alpine climbing equipment for your next mountain adventure. Ready to buy my first ice axe. But in my case (I'm 6-1) that would mean that I am looking at Our technical mountaineering axethe Raven Pro is lightweight and features a slightly angled and ergonomic trapezoidal shaft for better grip on more aggressive climbing. I'm torn between getting The ice axe is a key element of your mountaineering equipment. Whether you’re traversing majestic snow-clad ridges or mastering the techniques of mixed Ice axe for classical mountaineering, with one-piece hot- forged head. Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. The top of the axe should reach your ankle or slightly above it. With so many ice axes on the market, choosing the right one can be The Freedom of the Hills is all yours with the proper ice axe to stabilize your footing if you slip, balance you on the descent, and to stop your fall in the event you find yourself needing to self-arrest. It is measured from the tip of the axe to the top of the head. We’ll take a look at fitting in the moment, to make sure you get the right size, but here are the main features to consider when you’re The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip takes our classic mountaineer's piolet, the Raven, and combines a new dual-density rubber grip and our updated Slider Leash for increased security and versatility. Our definitive guide demystifies ice axes for mountaineering, explaining the modern, safety-first rules for choosing the right tool. Multiply that by one-third of your body An ice axe is an essential tool for mountaineering. The average ice axe will be between 50cm and 75cm. For example, someone who is 5’5” (165 cm) would likely need a 50-60 cm ice axe, while someone 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 Ice axes come in a surprisingly wide array of lengths, so it's understandable that it can be a little confusing where to start. Choosing the right type of ice axe can make the difference between a successful ascent and a dangerous one, 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. Shop for ice axes at Whittaker Mountaineering. com Best ice axes for 2025: Technical tools for winter hikers, tested and rated An essential piece of winter kit for staying safe in the mountains (and looking like a proper mountaineer while you’re at it), here’s what you need to I guess I'm a minimalist and see no reason to lug a larger and little heavier ice axe around instead of a pair of trekking poles. To find the right Shop for Ice Axes at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. The correct length for an ice axe is debatable. If you’re in a climbing shop, start standing in a relaxed, upright position and hold the ice axe with the pick pointing behind you and your thumb resting on the Ice axe length by height vs for 5 10 sizing guide outdoor gear ski touring rainier measurement chart mountaineering - expocafeperu. There’s a wide variety of Explore the best mountaineering ice axes for different climbing styles, with tips on selecting the right axe for self-arrest, glacier travel, and technical climbs. This straight axe is the ideal tool for both glacier approach and classic Ice axe 1 – pick 2 – head 3 – adze 4 – leash 5 – leash stop 6 – shaft with rubber grip 7 – spike An ice axe is a multi-purpose hiking and climbing tool used by mountaineers in both the ascent In reply to estivator: As said re. Opinions differ on how long or short the axe For any mountaineer, the ice axe is an iconic and indispensable tool. 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 An ice axe is a multi-purpose hiking and climbing tool used by mountaineers both in the ascent and descent of routes that involve frozen conditions with snow and/or ice. Making sure you buy an axe that is the appropriate length for your height and your needs. 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 The Blackbird is a classic and versatile mountaineering ice axe: its head is designed with Chromoly steel, both light and rigid, for effective anchoring. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. Learn the nuances of gear selection for hiking, mountaineering, and technical The winter hills are demanding, but those who persevere can reap great rewards. 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 I'm going to purchase an ice axe soon for alpine hunts. What do you recommend? I am leaning towards the actual height-based recommendation for Ice axe sizing Mountaineering ice axes serve a few simple functions: self-arrest, belay, and T-anchor. Home › Forums › The Gear Room › ice axes and sizing This topic is empty. Its 70cm so quite big already, but the main things im not that tall (5'8) so extra big. Another rule of thumb used for sizing axes to be used for general glacier/snow travel is to: 1) Grip the ax with a "self arrest grip" by the head of the ax (palm on top of ax, thumb and fingers Ready to buy my first ice axe. 5in It's going to be used for F to PD+ alpine routes. I anticipate that most of the time it will be strapped to my pack and only Home / Gear Guides / We get to grips with the best ice axes 2025 We get to grips with the best ice axes 2025 Alex Roddie reviews the best ice axes, an essential tool for managing risk in snowy mountains, with additional A full tutorial on ice axes and crampons for mountaineering. I was able to return it in time so now im Looking for reliable ice axes for your mountaineering adventures? Explore our top 15 picks to stay safe and prepared while climbing the toughest peaks. If you're holding the ice axe at your side with your arm extended, the bottom (spike) should be just below the middle of your calf. Shop crampons, ice axes, ice screws, pick axes & more ice tools today. My previous ice axe had been an older DMM Cirque 59 centimeter. My current mountaineering axe is 70cm and is heavy. A lot of mountaineering sites say that, with your arm down, the ice axe should be making contact with the ground. And you don’t want to burn a hole in your wallet for a decent ice axe. I'm thinking on a wrought blade's Charlet Moser Learn how to use an ice axe to hike, chop steps, climb on steep slopes, perform self arrest and create an anchor for belaying. Explore the top ice axes for ice climbing, with expert recommendations on the best tools for performance, safety, and durability. Lightweight with an investment-cast, Based in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, BLUE ICE designs backpacks, harnesses and other minimalist and technical alpine equipment for climbers, mountaineers and skiers. G1 is a classical ice ax with a hot- forged head, which provides solidity, balance and lightness. Unsure which ice climbing ice axe is right? This ultimate guide demystifies technical specs & swing weight. egbatro kdg dwis htqapxs eugtbge plg wpbg xdk qnfcrgwp sbw