Best ice axe climbing kit We compare features, uses, and value. Jan 8, 2023 · Crampons. Try several in the hand if possible: the head and grip of some are more comfortable to hold than others. 6; Aluminum shaft; Both Stainless steel head and spike; Modular head; Slightly curved shaft; Check Petzl Sum'Tec Adze prices:- Backcountry, REI, Amazon, Moosejaw May 1, 2025 · The right axe gives better grip and control. The most important factor of an ice axe is its length. A hybrid mountaineering ice axe of 50-59 cm is required. Feb 12, 2024 · Finding the best ice axe can be tricky. There are several types of axes, ranging from those intended as a winter hillwalking aid through to aggressive models designed for climbing. Hybrid Ice Axe. It also keeps you safe on technical climbs. It is measured from the tip of the axe to the top of the head. Full winter conditions in the hills and mountains present an added challenge for even the most experienced hill walker or mountaineer. Oct 22, 2023 · Climbing gear isn’t cheap, and winter climbing requires a lot of it. To find the right length ice axe based on your size, hold it while standing upright and relaxed with your arms by your sides. Jan 17, 2024 · Best Mountaineering Axe: Petzl Summit Evo Ice Axe; Best Value Technical Ice Tool: Trango Raptor Ice Axe; Best Value Mountaineering Axe: Grivel G1 Ice Axe; Best Size Range in Mountaineering Axes 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. Climbing alpine ice, though, can also include walking flat-footed with crampons and a single ice axe. Here are the five essential pieces of gear you must have for an ice climbing adventure: 1. Best for versatility: Petzl Summit Evo Ice Axe. Black Diamond Hydra Ice Tool ($310) Scarpa Phantom Tech HD ($899) Trango Kestrel Ice Tool ($500) Patagonia M10 Hardshell Pants ($279) Petzl Sitta Harness ($175) Blue Ice Harfang Tech Crampons ($230) How to Choose Ice Climbing Gear; How We Test; Meet Our Testers Jan 22, 2025 · What are the best ice axes of 2025? Best in Test: Petzl Glacier Adze Ice Axe. Amazon price $77. Now, they come in all forms of permutations Ice and Alpine Climbing - Black Diamond Equipment Dec 25, 2024 · Choosing an ice axe. 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. Ideal models include the Petzl Sum-Tec, and Black Diamond Venom. Best beginner ice axe: Grivel G-Zero Ice Axe. Colder temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns and fewer daylight hours make factors like kit Jan 2, 2025 · Ice tools have morphed from shorter versions of glacier travel axes to highly specialized tools for ice and mixed climbing. Jan 10, 2025 · Climbing Mount Peak requires a wide range of specialized gear and equipment, including crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and ropes. Specifications: All aluminum construction optimized for snow travel Ten points (with dual front points) assure traction on icy terrain Very lightweight 360 gm/12 ounces for pair CORD-TECH optimizes volume when packed in their included bag Tool free adjustment assures secure fit Binding system suitable for use with hiking and approach shoes, without heel or toe welts Boot sizes 36-46 EU/6-12 US Ice Axe. In this guide, we list the best ice axes for ice climbing. The average ice axe will be between 50cm and 75cm. PETZL Sum'Tec Ice Axe. Similarly to ice tools, the crampons best suited to ice climbing are different from those used for mountaineering. To choose an ice axe, you will first need a clear idea of what terrain you will mostly be on. Getting Started Climbing Ice. Jan 29, 2025 · The right gear helps you navigate treacherous ice surfaces while providing stability and protection. A general mountaineering ice axe. Heights 5'4” and under should use a 52 cm axe, 5'5'' to 6’0'' use a 59 cm axe, above 6'0'' use a 66 cm axe. With so many types out there, choosing the best one is hard. . At A Glance. Some work best on vertical ice, others on mixed terrain. Jan 3, 2025 · Essential Ice Climbing Equipment: A Complete Guide Feb 14, 2024 · The best icy outdoor adventures demand the best ice axes. Some are great for beginners, others for pros. Ice climbing typically brings to mind frozen waterfalls. Note that wrist leashes should be removed from your axe. Climbers should also be prepared with a first aid kit, emergency shelter, and communication devices. Jan 28, 2025 · Those are the pieces below: the best new ice climbing gear for 2025. 14; Best for ice climbing and technical mountaineering; Length (inches): 21. Best Value: DMM Spire Ice Axe. Ice Axes An ice axe is one of the fundamental tools for ice climbing, providing the support and stability you need to ascend vertical ice surfaces. Here, a climber works their way up vertical ice with two axes, crampons toe-in to the ice. But transitioning from your standard rock climbing kit to ice climbing requires a lot more thought. If you are just starting out and already own mountaineering crampons, you may be able to use your existing crampons for ice climbing, but as you progress, you may want something more suited to climbing on steep ice. Too short is preferable to too long, and models larger than 59 cm will catch on ropes and rocks. Rock season is easy to gear up for; rope, rack, harness, shoes, chalk bag, and you’re ready to go. We recommend the following size as a general guideline to follow. 7; Weight (ounces): 16. When in doubt, a shorter ice axe is better than a longer axe. For example, if you are into steep mountaineering, a long walking axe is not the best idea. The Sum'tec is the brainchild of the late Ueli Steck (along 3 days ago · Best Modular Ice Axe: 5. Shafts used to be straight. mzmlos psti ufxsaqb jyvxt qoza obefg cscwig abpsi pjeu jsodahlrr