What size ice axe do i need. And they’re sold in 5cm increments. A too-small axe can be difficult to control and may not provide enough purchase in the snow, while a too-large axe can be cumbersome to carry and may get in the way when you need to use it. Find out how to choose the right ice axe for your intended use. not ice climbing, I'm 6'0 and have been told I want a shorter rather an long axe. How Long Should An Ice Axe Be? As you shop for your mountaineering ice axe, you’ll notice that the lengths range from 55 to 75 cm. Mar 12, 2021 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. So how do you know what size ice axe is right for you? Oct 6, 2015 · Hi I'm looking at buying my first Ice axe nothing special just for safety general cutting steps etc. Surely, this has some value, but it doesn't address the question of how long an ice axe should be to serve its intended purpose, and do so as efficiently and as safely as possible See full list on mountainhouse. For really steep, snowy terrain, you probably want a general mountaineering ice axe that's on the shorter side. com Nov 24, 2024 · But which size of ice axe do you need? Well, that depends on a few factors, so let us help you determine which size ice axe is best for your needs. Ice axes aren’t all created equal. What used to be common advice is now outdated. To do this, you’ll need to take into account the following: the size of your hands, the length of your arms, and your overall height. Axe length also needs to be factored into the buying decision. She aims to spark a love for the outdoors in every reader. Yet with so many different materials, shapes, and features available, choosing one is anything but basic. In this video, Reuben from Next Adventure shows you how to determine the proper sized straight May 25, 2022 · How to attach an ice axe to a backpack The ice axe accessories What is an ice axe? The Mountaineers, one of the most prominent alpine clubs globally, described an ice axe as “a multi-purpose hiking and climbing tool used by mountaineers in both the ascent and descent of routes that involve snow, ice, or frozen conditions”. What Size Ice Axe Do I Need For Skiing? When it comes to skiing, having the right equipment can greatly impact your experience on the slopes. As with most gear, the array of choices can be overwhelming, so we are going to break down some of the options and what is best suited for different terrain. Not only does it need to be suited for the terrain you will be encountering on a given peak, but it also needs to be sized correctly. I did a course last year on winter skills but can't remember the size I used any help welcome. Over the last hundred years or so of mountaineering, ice axe sizing and styles have changed greatly. Apr 17, 2025 · 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. However, personal preference and the slopes you expect to typically encounter may shorten the length. While some are made for technical ice climbing, others are best suited to mountaineering trips. You can get hybrids which it what your photo shows that can do easy climbs. What Size Ice Axe Do You Need Written by Sophie Anderson A lifelong adventurer, Sophie has treaded every terrain from rocky cliffs to forest trails. Nov 25, 2022 · The size of your ice axe is important for two reasons: safety and efficiency. 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. The Basics When we talk about ice axes . a walking axe or a climbing axe. Try different holds on the axe and go with what feels natural. An ice axe is a versatile tool that could save your life in alpine regions, so choosing the right one is crucial. Learning how to size an ice axe is crucial to technical mountaineering. Moderate Terrain For moderate terrain (think the Sep 13, 2021 · Do I need 1 or 2 ice axes? Generally, hybrid axes are sized between 50-59cm, with a preference toward being too short rather than too long. What type of ice axe do you need? Jun 10, 2019 · An ice axe is a critical piece of mountain equipment. In this informa If you're an ice climber, a mountaineer, or a high altitude winter hiker, then an ice axe is a basic necessity. You'll also have different axes for different activities i. Jan 14, 2017 · I think considering an ice axe on its merits as a walking pole is probably the wrong idea. Learn how to size your ice axe, the parts of an ice axe and key features to consider. So you'll need to fit it to the intended activity too. Since it might make the difference between life or death, you want to make sure you choose the right ice axe for your purposes. 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. Jan 14, 2022 · An ice axe is an important protection device that helps you maintain balance, test terrain, climb snow and ice-covered slopes and even stop yourself from sliding downhill if you fall (known as “self-arrest”). Nov 22, 2021 · 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. e. Keep reading to learn about different types of ice axes, the activities they're best for, and how to choose one that's right for you. swgbqqwz qeosc ajdokx hnvet ukc grzir jvhuqx gnsehg mdo vxyxxf
26th Apr 2024