Ice axe for hiking. Hiking on Spring Snow – Ice Axe Self-Arrest.

Ice axe for hiking Jul 2, 2003 · Trekking poles are no substitute for an ice axe when an ice axe is called for, which will depend on the steepness of the slope, the nature of the snow, and the consequence of a slip. Climbers usually prefer shorter axes. Be sure to get competent ice-axe instruction and thoroughly practice using an ice axe before relying on one in the field. 95. Oct 1, 2021 · When hiking across steep slopes covered in ice and snow, you will want to have an ice axe on hand. Try several in the hand if possible: the head and grip of some are more comfortable to hold than others. A strong and stable ice May 26, 2019 · On most backpacking routes, axes are needed only occasionally, usually to gain or descend a pass, or to contour across a steep snowfield or avalanche chute below a pass. The pick is classically neutral with ergonomic design that remains comfortable after hours of climbing. 5; Weight (ounces): 16. If you plan on any graded winter climbs then a T rated axe is a better choice than a B rated one. They are designed to be used singly rather than as a pair. Everything from simple glissading techniques and tips to get down a mountain while climbing or backpacking with ice axes and trekking poles. Follow me on Instagram @radishuprooted Want to get into mountaineering, winter backpacking, or thru hike the Pacific Crest Trail or Continental Divide Trail? Cart. 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. 8 oz (250 grams) in a size 60 cm length. You're hiking the CDT - the cream of the crop, as far as skill-challenges go. We highly recommend it for thru-hikers, or anyone covering serious mileage in the mountains. Shop a wide selection of Ice Axes & Tools at DICK’S Sporting Goods and order online for the finest quality products from the top brands you trust. Many ice-axe makers sell premade leashes that fit their tools perfectly. Regular price Sale price $169. Crunching up Snowdon's Pyg Track in crampons, with ice axes in hand and big hiking packs on our backs, we were glad we’d thought to take not only our winter hardware but also plenty of extra layers. The whippet takes the place of the long axe, but is lighter and more useful and comfortable in general. Whatever long axe you can afford will serve you well. It’s the lightest ice axe on the list at 7. Despite its lightweight, it is a fully functional UIAA-certified B ice ax capable of being used for self-rescue, glissading, and strong enough to be used as a belay anchor. The lighter axes are fine for backpacking and hillwalking. Jun 5, 2024 · For any mountaineer, the ice axe is an iconic and indispensable tool. You can also make your own leash from either 5mm to 7mm Perlon cord or 1" webbing. May 15, 2024 · The pick and spike corrosion resistant tip will have you using this ice axe for seasons to come. Length. ice climbing or mixed climbing) conditions. How is an ice axe used? An ice axe is used in various ways depending on the type of terrain and specific activity. Like all tools, ice axes come in different designs for different uses. Jan 29, 2021 · If you’re new to winter hiking and climbing, the first thing you need to understand is the difference between a regular, or basic ice axe, and a technical ice axe. Perfect for climbers aiming for Rainier, Denali, and beyond. Cassin CAMP USA Neve Ice Axe. More important than the brand name of the axe is buy Yvonn Chouinard's excellent book Climbing Ice. In case you should slip on icy surface, you lean on the pick and brake. I’m Dave Collins with cleverhiker. These multi-purpose hiking and climbing tools are used by mountaineers in both the ascent and descent of routes that involve snow, ice, or frozen conditions. Founded in 1981, DMM turns out some of the most highly regarded climbing hardware in the industry, which includes a selection of ice axes that range from highly technical ice tools to hill-friendly walking axes. When you are using your ice axe as a hiking stick, it doesn’t really matter if the adze or pick is facing the front. by Live For The Outdoors Team | Updated on 17th January 2025 at 12. Dec 10, 2024 · Overview of Ice Axes For Backpacking; Best Ice Axes For Backpacking – Reviewed. 0 (4) 4 total reviews Feb 14, 2025 · The test packs came with us on a blizzard-filled testing trip in Snowdonia. I’m solidly in the better to go a little shorter than a little longer camp when it comes to three season hiking ice axes. Additionally, the ice axe can have different types of grips and picks, adapting to various uses, from technical climbing to winter hiking. Ice Axe Loops. 7. And well prepared. People absolutely get away with it - but it doesn't mean that those choices are smart or responsible. Jan 3, 2019 · The axes reviewed weigh between 245 and 650 grams. They are for attaching ice axes and other objects with sharp edges. FREE delivery Fri, Jun 6 . Hiking on Spring Snow – Ice Axe Self-Arrest. As you can see in the video, it depends on how smoothly you can get your ice axe from the walking position to the self-arrest position. Apr 10, 2019 · What is an ice axe? An ice axe is a multi-purpose tool which among other things can be used for arresting a fall. 95 $ 109. The Corsa isn’t as burly or aggressive as some traditional ice axes, but it has an ideal balance of weight and strength. Ice axe 1 – pick 2 – head 3 – adze 4 – leash 5 – leash stop 6 – shaft with rubber grip 7 – spike. 23pm Unless you start late and hike fast, you should not plan to hike the CDT without an ice axe and the practice using it. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee A number of years ago I switched from a longer axe (older BD Raven) to a short axe (Petzl Summit Evo) and a BD Whippet (trekking pole with an ice axe head). Ice axes of all types and brands in our online store. To learn how to use an ice axe, see Episode 16 – Crossing Snow – Ice Axe – Self Arrest of our Essential Trail Skills Video Shop for Ice Axes at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. This is a B-rated/Type 1 axe that would make a great first ice axe for someone venturing into their first winter adventures. They’re much shorter than a regular ice axe, tend to have picks that are oriented at a much more acute Feb 12, 2024 · An ice axe is a multi-purpose hiking and climbing tool that is comprised of a head (with a pick and adze) and a shaft (with a spike). Mar 20, 2021 · I’ve been looking for information on a whippet versus an ice ax for a while. May 2, 2025 · Ready to take your hiking beyond the dirt trail? For technical snow and ice travel on tall peaks, lingering snow on high passes, or glacier travel, an ice axe is a crucial piece of gear. Even if you’re not planning a winter backcountry trip, you may still have to deal with crossing snowfields on the trail. The Pick: The Jan 22, 2025 · There’s only one manufacturer still making ice axes right here in the UK, and that’s DMM. The $120 axe has a straight shaft and comes in lengths of 50, 60, and 70 cm. The head has two main components: the pick and adze. Not only do you have to be fit and healthy to summit, you need to be prepared. I recognize that it’s difficult to justify a ~$100 expense and 12 ounces of extra pack weight for an item that you infrequently need. Be up to the challenge - get an ice axe, and Navigate snow and ice with confidence using our detailed guide to choosing ice axes and crampons. Climbs ice better than expected, and performs great as a ice tool. Regular price $169. Black Diamond Raven 50 cm; 2. Full winter conditions in the hills and mountains present an added challenge for even the most experienced hill walker or mountaineer. That said, I sometimes use one pole on my down hill side and an axe on my uphill side. 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. Ice axes from classic mountaineering, technical mountaineering, ice climbing and drytooling and ice axes from hiking on glaciers and ski mountaineering. Breaking down an Ice Axe. 6 out of 5 stars Dec 25, 2024 · Choosing an ice axe. Oct 14, 2023 · This article on how to use an ice axe was first published in 2016. The correct length for an ice axe is debatable. In summary, if you're someone who hikes and climbs in moderate terrain and are looking for a lightweight, simple, yet reliable ice axe, then the Petzl Glacier, according to many online reviews, would be a strong contender. Before using your ice axe, you'll need to know its basic components: Pick: This is the sharp, pointed bottom end of the ice Oct 21, 2024 · This is a gear review of the Best Ice Axes for Hiking, Mountaineering, Backpacking, and Thru-Hiking. Ice Axes. Amazon price $84. An important function of a walking axe is to provide extra stability when walking on snow and ice, to help prevent slips and trips. Grivel Air Tech Light 50 cm; 4. It was seriously cold, even when working hard. An Ice Axe provides both safety and security when climbing, hiking, and mountaineering in icy conditions. We have all the brands: Petzl, Grivel, Cassin, CAMP and others. Petzl Snaggletooth Ice Axe 55 cm; 3. However, I have seen that some of them have a slight curvature and some don't. A new generation of walking axe. The head of the Venom ice axe is a little heavier than the heads of more hiking-oriented ice axes and therefore it provides better functionality on steep slopes when the ice axe is held at the shaft and used for hooking into snow and ice. 2 oz / 204 g and has an all-aluminum construction. PETZL Glacier Ice Axe - Lightweight Performance Ice Axe for Mountaineering and Glacier Travel. com 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. Though designed primarily for technical mountaineering, it also shines in hiking and glacial travel. How to Hold an Ice Axe Parts of an Ice Axe. They can be used to prevent slips and falls, maintain balance on slippery slopes, create a path by cutting steps in snow, probe for hidden hazards, aid in technical ice climbing, and construct emergency shelters. Shop for Ice Axes and Tools at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. 5. If you do decide to bring an ice axe on your next hiking trip it is good to know that you can buy a very decent one for less than 100 bucks. Your ice axe is a key tool in effective and efficient movement. An ice axe is a multi-purpose tool that consists of a shaft and a head with a pick and an adze attached. This may be so, but the other main function of the axe is to provide a means of self arresting in the event of a slip or Oct 18, 2020 · How to mountain glissade safely. . The CAMP USA Corsa was the most-commonly found ice axe on the Pacific Crest Trail this year. 1 to 22. On snowy or glacial terrain, it is employed to provide stability and traction while walking. 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). GZERO a very light ice axe for classical alpinism that still has all the characteristics of a Grivel ice axe including, head that provides maximum strength and minimal weight. A perfect choice for the scrambler who wants a more climbing oriented axe, an alpinist looking for a tool to get across glaciers, snow, neve, and alpine ice, or the jack of all trades axe that can do it all. Jan 17, 2025 · Find out what an ice axe is for, how to perform and basic ice axe arrest, and how to carry an ice axe safely with our expert guide. Don't wait until you're standing on an exposed slope to have your axe in hand. 0 out of 5 stars 7 2 offers from $7999 $ 79 99 Additionally, the ice axe can have different types of grips and picks, adapting to various uses, from technical climbing to winter hiking. See full list on outdoorgearlab. Quick overview: Ice axes are a vital tool for hikers venturing into Australia's alpine regions, providing safety and navigation in snow and ice conditions. If your trek has you crossing snowpack or glaciers in the mountains, an ice axe is indispensable, but awkward to carry when you aren't using it. Climbing axes are T rated, which means they are stronger than B rated axes and suitable for hard usage on rock and ice and for use as belays. You should try out the various positions with both your hands and figure out what works 8) A shorter ice axe with an ergonomic shaft curve and good pick will self-arrest as well as a longer straight shafted axe. Price, product page $109. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. This is to say that I will be using an ice axe for both climbing steep slopes and as a hiking pole. The Shaft: Made of steel, aluminum, or carbon fiber. Full Specifications Lengths: 58cm, 66cm, 74cm / B-rated / 4 colours: black, pink, blue, green / steel head and aluminium shaft / adjustable leash with a rubber tip / plastic blade cover. Important: Reading this article does not make you a mountaineer. 1; Aluminum shaft; Stainless steel head and spike; Fixed head; Straight shafts; See Camp Neve Ice Axe prices on Backcountry: 57 cm, 65 cm and prices on Amazon: 57 cm and 65 cm Mar 9, 2024 · The shaft of the ice axe is made of aluminum while the head is made of steel. DMM Fly 50 cm Ice Axe; Why Do People Need to Buy Ice Axes for Backpacking? User Experiences and Testimonials; Maintenance and Care Dec 19, 2021 · To take your hiking into winter conditions, you’ll need to invest in the holy trinity of winter equipment: winter boots, crampons and an ice axe. ), the black raven diamond ice axe is the way to go. 65; Best for ice hiking, general mountaineering; Length (inches): 19. 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. Jun 21, 2024 · Technical ice axes are used for steep snow and ice climbing. A hiking ice axe consists of a shaft and the head. 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. Filter We stock ice axes from the leading outdoor brands, including Petzl, Grivel, and Black Diamond, so you can ensure the products are high quality and reliable. Ice axes can be used in a cane Dec 11, 2019 · Do You Need an Ice Axe. Colder temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns and fewer daylight hours make factors like kit Awesome multi purpose ice axe/tool hybrid. If you've ever wondered what the thin backpack loops on the bottom rear of a backpack are for, then wonder no more. Longer axes will facilitate descending and downclimbing. Technical ice axes are used almost exclusively for climbing high angle ice. Michael Covington is on the cover climbing Mt Kilimanjaro I believe. Jan 22, 2025 · Think of an ice axe as T-shaped, the axe head is the horizontal top of the ‘T’. Let’s take a further look at how to use an ice axe to keep you confident and safe. 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. It is commonly taken hiking and mountaineering, useful for support, balance, digging, and probing. The ice axe’s most important safety feature is its ability to stop someone from free-falling down a slippery slope. I took my first mountaineering course with IME (International Mountain Equipment) a “while ago” and I’ve used it ever since. Ice axes serve numerous purposes, from providing stability on snowy ascents to arresting a slide in the case of a fall. Most climbers use an ice axe and most backpackers use poles to maintain control. Ordinarily, heads have cold-rolled or hot-forged steel, though lightweight axes use aluminium, which isn’t as strong and blunts quicker. Think of it like sledding on your butt without the sled. com and in this episode we’re going to take a look at hiking on snow during spring and summer backpacking trips. Camp Corsa Nanotech 50 cm; 5. An axe allows you to balance, dig, cut, support and probe in this challenging environment, as well as providing a hand hold in tricky situations. What kind of ice axe do I need? For walking. Mar 19, 2024 · The CAMP-USA Corsa Ice Axe is quite possibly the lightest weight ice ax in the world, weighing just 8. In his podcast on snow travel, Ned talked about the benefit of having a self-arrest hiking pole, like the Black Diamond Whippet over an ice ax. If you are a hiker who uses an ice axe only occasionally, your needs won’t be the same as someone who summits snow- and ice-covered peaks on a regular basis. While hiking, an ice axe is held at the head (with the pick pointing to the rear) and used like a trekking pole. Logic suggests a long shaft is best for this. Traveling on ice requires specialized skills, and therefore, specialized tools, which you need to be ready to use at any moment should things start to go wrong. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Oct 2, 2020 · You know that summiting mountains in the dead of winter, or even high icy peaks in the summer, is no small task. Mar 24, 2023 · Most Common PCT Ice Axes. To choose an ice axe, you will first need a clear idea of what terrain you will mostly be on. Jan 17, 2024 · The Petzl Summit Evo is a versatile mountaineering axe for alpine climbing. 1. 7 to 31. If you do slip and fall, you'll use your ice axe to stop your fall—this is called self-arrest. Feb 14, 2024 · The best icy outdoor adventures demand the best ice axes. Jan 1, 2017 · Most walking axes are B rated. Your cart is empty. The weight, curvature, and material of the shaft all influence what activity the ice axe is best for. This is my opinion and shouldn’t be taken as definitive advice. It has a storied place in the history of mountaineering, whether you’re planning your first high-altitude expedition or adding to your existing gear, selecting the right ice axe is a critical decision that can impact your safety and performance in challenging environments. g. Learn the nuances of gear selection for hiking, mountaineering, and technical climbs, and ensure your safety with our Mountain Logic recommendations. 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. It gives stability and security with a range of techniques in skilled and practised hands. If you are a regular hiker (no mountaineering, ice climbing, etc. 6. For example, if you are into steep mountaineering, a long walking axe is not the best idea. Best Seller in Mountaineering & Ice Climbing Ice Axes Outdoor Camping Ice Axe Walking Pick for Camping Aluminum Alloy Mountaineering Axe Glacier Climbing Tool Lightweight Design,70 Cm (Blue) 3. Traveling on ice requires specialized skills, hence you will need specialized equipment. 95. It's inspirational as well as instructive. Mar 9, 2024 · The shaft of the ice axe is made of aluminum while the head is made of steel. Jan 30, 2024 · The best way to learn how to use an ice axe for winter hiking and mountaineering is to take a class with one of the mountain guiding services in North Conway (NH). I’d been thinking of getting a Whippet for my JMT thru-hike this summer. 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 3 days ago · 4. Weight The axes reviewed weigh between 280 and 650g. 0 / 5. An ultralight ice axe for technical mountaineering and high-alpine skiing. Aug 19, 2024 · Ad&sons Axe, Viking Axe, Custom Gifts, Handmade Carbon Steel Camping Axe, Ashwood Handle Bearded Axe Camping Hatchet with Sheath, 19 Inches - Ax 5. enolq ohzjms vxa xwi elcc awxgpkhj yquhmpc vyti ogdmjku ktsjps