Ice axe vs ice pick vs mountaineering. What We Like: Its lightweight design reduces fatigue .
Ice axe vs ice pick vs mountaineering. It’s just a basic rundown of features and what to look for if you’re new to Jan 22, 2025 · 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 know about buying an ice axe. Ice axes are essential for mountaineering, ice climbing, and glacier travel. In this comparison review seven models go head to head. mixed alpine climbing, it's worth checking the ratings of both parts. Gear up for ice and alpine climbing with Black Diamond. Learn all there is to know about these essential mountaineering tools. Ice axe buyer’s guide. Learn how to choose an ice axe! Compare Ice AxesCompare Ice Axes Dec 23, 2015 · Basic axes are NOT strong enough for technical climbing! -Technical ice axes and ice/mixed climbing tools are designated with a T (technical) stamp. e. I have a 70cm general axe that has a serrated, but fairly dull pick. This can help you decide on the type of ice axe you need. In this update, we select 17 of the current market's best to hack away at waterfalls, chop steps, and practice our self-arrest techniques. These sturdy axes feature sharp, curved picks The UKC team looks at high performing ice axes from top brands such as Petzl, DMM, Black Diamond, Grivel and Edelrid. How we choose: The best ice tools highlighted here were selected based on 22 reviews of 17 products. These ratings apply separately to the shaft and pick of the axe, and whilst this is generally relevant to axes intended for technical climbing, eg. Feb 14, 2024 · Winter hill walking, classic mountaineering and many alpinism adventures usually involve the use of a single ice axe – sometimes referred to as a piolet. Find out how to choose the right ice axe for your intended use. I'm wondering is there a shift in thinking going on, and more are starting to use tools for general mountaineering? Feb 11, 2015 · The three big differences between an ice tool and a piolet are a curved shaft, a radically shorter length and a pick with a reverse curve (imagine, well, an upside-down rainbow). The main thing that has yet to be commented is that during a self-arrest, which is the main reason you should carry an ice axe, those ice tools (the climbing ones) can bury their handles into the snow due to their shape and pop the head out. Jun 21, 2024 · A full tutorial on ice axes and crampons for mountaineering. Our top picks are those that are readily-available in the United States and have received the highest overall ratings from reviewers. They provide a secure grip on icy and snowy surfaces, allowing for safe ascents and descents. Jan 17, 2024 · If you’re climbing or mountaineering, having the right tools is necessary for your success and safety. Apr 11, 2024 · The performance we seek from an ice axe varies widely depending on the day’s objective. Glisshop’s experts teach you how to pick the right ice tool for mountaineering or ice climbing as well as glacier hiking or ski touring. Broadly, ice axes can be classified under three different headings – walking axes, mountaineering axes and technical climbing tools – and come in a variety of lengths, materials, designs and strengths. 42 votes, 47 comments. Shop crampons, ice axes, ice screws, pick axes & more ice tools today. I’m typically never winter climbing, and summiting during the March - Sept mountaineering season. Shop for Ice Axes and Tools at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. A curved shaft ice axe can make it easier to self arrest (ie petzl summit). An ice axe is a must for mountaineering. Jul 25, 2025 · CAMP Corsa Ice Axe – 60cm What Is a Mountaineering Ice Axe and Why Is It Essential for Climbers? What Key Features Should You Consider When Selecting the Best Mountaineering Ice Axe? How Do Weight and Material Influence the Performance of a Mountaineering Ice Axe? Why Is Axe Length Crucial for Different Climbing Scenarios? May 15, 2025 · 1960s: Yvon Chouinard introduced a revolutionary ice axe design with a 55 cm shaft and dramatically curved pick, marking the beginning of modern ice axe design. Jan 29, 2015 · It seems like I'm noticing more people using ice tools for general mountaineering as opposed to the traditional ice axe. Ice Axes Developments in technology and design allow Petzl to offer tools for all disciplines. The Petzl Gully ice axe is a lightweight and strong tool designed for serious mountaineering and skiing. On technical ice tools, picks and shafts are rated separately. Its handle can be adjusted between “Dry” and “Ice” modes offering roughly the same clearance as the Petzl Ergonomic and Nomic, respectively. On other days, we may spend hours with one or two axes in use, perhaps climbing steps of ice or rock. It’s perfect for those who need a reliable ice axe without carrying extra weight. g. Ice axes are a mountaineering tool used for ascending snow slopes. While sliding, the additional leverage from a longer shaft can help control pressing the pick into harder surfaces. This is to say that I will be using an ice axe for both climbing steep slopes and as a hiking pole. Learn the nuances of gear selection for hiking, mountaineering, and technical climbs, and ensure your safety with our Mountain Logic recommendations. The shape and double handle offer multiple grip modes, as well as stable hand switching. You will also need to know how to use it properly. Jan 28, 2022 · Over the last 10 years, we've tested over 21 of the best ice axes on the market. An ice axe has a long, straight shaft and curved pick. You may pick up a few pointers that will make the mountaineering axe more of the right tool in some situations. Here's my list of favorite ice climbing gear for the big routes in the 49th state. Let’s start with an ice axe – this tool is designed to provide stability and safety when climbing on snow or ice-covered terrain. We’ve laid out some of our favorites for mountaineering below, but there’s enough variety to meet you wherever you are in your outdoor journey. Nov 15, 2024 · Our review of the Black Diamond Hydra found it swings just as good as the best of them. But when walking my dog they’ve occasionally shape-shifted into the form of a coyote or stray pit bull to charge us. As a new climber shopping around for my first set of climbing equipment, I came across ice axes and ice tools and wondered if they can be used interchangeably. Ice Tools Don't confuse an ice tool with an ice axe -- they are very different pieces of gear suitable for different environments. crampons, these two burliest traction devices offer many features you can use for any adventure in the burliest conditions. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 40+ mountaineering axes, ice tools, crampons, and other ice and snow gear. The ice axe is an essential tool in the world of mountaineering and ice climbing. Dec 8, 2022 · Ice axes are designed typically for a specific purpose, it's not just the angle of the pick, but the pick itself. Sep 29, 2023 · Comprehensive guide for Ice axes in 2024 Learn about top-performing models, pros and cons, and choose the perfect ice axe for your mountaineering adventures. Not only does it need to be suited for the terrain, but also sized correctly. Find the best ice axes from Black Diamond, Blue Ice, CAMP, DMM, Grivel, Petzl. DMM make a separate "mixed" pick for the Apex. What she is after is a single axe for alpine trips which can be paired with one of her technical tools for lower grade Scottish climbs. They feature a curved shaft, a rubber grip or hand rest, and a reverse-curve pick. Featuring a Aug 22, 2018 · The term 'ice tool' came to refer to axes more specialized to steep ice climbing, with curved and reverse curve picks, adze end variations such as hammers, and modular functionality. Our expert Mountaineering ice axes vs ice tool grades I'm looking to get into ice climbing but only have a straight shaft ice axe for mountaineering/ski touring. At what grade does an ice axe become mandatory, like WI3? WI4? Ice axes are an essential safety tool for travelling through winter mountains. Oct 31, 2009 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. An ultralight and technical ice tool for high-alpine skiing, officially approved for ski mountaineering competitions. From lightweight options perfect for technical routes to robust models designed for Aug 21, 2024 · Ice climbing is a challenging sport using specialized tools. With the Switch, DMM have created a tool that shares a similar geometry with well-established axes such as the May 28, 2025 · The unforgiving terrain of the Eiger demands impeccable equipment, and a climber’s ice axe represents a critical lifeline in such environments. Mar 9, 2024 · Here we selected and reviewed the best ice axes for hiking and general mountaineering in order to make your buying decision easier. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. Learn when and how to use it to stay in balance and self-arrest when you fall. Sep 29, 2013 · Ice Axes come in many shapes and sizes. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Jan 14, 2017 · Mountaineering ice axes serve a few simple functions: self-arrest, belay, and T-anchor. Jun 17, 2020 · The Quarks come equipped with the ICE picks but can be set up with several different picks, which range from their DRY picks that are a little beefier for cranking and abusing on mixed terrain, to their precise and supple ICE pick that tapers to a knife edge 3. So what are ice axes used for? Dec 6, 2016 · Hello everyone, I am interested in your thoughts on what is best for assisting on a goat hunt: ice axe, whippet, or just my plain trekking poles, specifically looking at Kodiak in the springtime if you have advice I would appreciate it. Feb 9, 2024 · Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe Range 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 decades. If you’ve read this far, you probably don’t want or need mixed tools. 1970s: Technical ice tools emerged, designed specifically for waterfall ice climbing. The reviews posted here reflect the real-world experiences of outdoor enthusiasts just Mar 16, 2025 · Our expert gear testing team gets to the point reviewing the best ice axes, an essential tool for managing risk in snowy mountains. There may be snow conditions where the longer ice axe pick can penetrate deeper, providing more friction during the arrest. An ice tool is a specialized form of ice axe that’s used for vertical ice climbing. But its modularity is where it really shines. Feb 11, 2015 · The curves on the shaft and pick are more wicked, the handles are beefier and the people that use them effectively are the demi-gods of the climbing world. Feb 12, 2022 · Website DescriptionWinter and Alpine Hardware Review – Part 2: Technical Ice Tools and Crampons Saturday 12th February 2022 By Bruce Goodlad In the second part of this two-part review, we look at equipment suitable for harder winter climbing and Alpine routes. All the picks are T-rated, regardless of ice/mixed/dry. pure water ice vs. This axe features a unique adze (a curved blade) for efficient ice cutting and snow work. An ice axe is an essential tool for mountaineering. Shop crampons, ice axes, ice screws, harnesses, carabiners, ropes, and more essential equipment for your next mountain adventure. They can perform the functions of a traditional mountaineering ax in a pinch, but nowhere near as effectively. Ice Axe vs Crampon Features When it comes to the battle of ice axe vs. But did you know that there are different types of ice axes depending on their use? In addition, there are several factors to take into account when choosing the right one. From glacier travel, to pushing the limits of modern ice and mixed climbing. When paired with a nice ice climbing pick the Sum’tec feels like a technical ice tool and can easily dispatch pitches of technical ice. Feb 2, 2021 · Scottish-style mixed climbing makes great demands on ice axes. Its PUR’ICE pick allows efficient placement in a variety of types of ice. A conventional ice axe, on the contrary, offers a larger pick and a stronger shaft, which increases the chance of self-arresting. After years of renting, I’m finally ready to purchase my own ice axe for summits in the area (Adams, Hood, Helens, Rainier). Our focus was on their general feel and swing, weight and balance, handle and shaft design, picks and feature set, and overall value for money. Here are the best ice axes for your next adventure. From ice axes to crampons, ice protection, and dry-tooling, each aspect plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and successful ascents. Before you go shopping for your ice axe, it is important to first learn more about its different uses. These sturdy axes feature sharp, curved Jun 14, 2019 · Definitely a testament to the ice climbing pedigree of the tool. Dec 14, 2022 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. This thing helps me with aura effects and damage vs unholy and undead. Reviews, ratings, and price comparisons covering 10+ mountaineering axes/piolets. It might be tempting to just pick out the most rugged-looking axe you can find (check out our guide to the best ice axes you can buy) but knowing how to choose an ice axe is important to make sure you end up with the right type – and length – for your Feb 16, 2018 · Whether it's for Scottish mixed, Continental ice or drytooling, a pair of technical axes are your key weapons. The classic mountaineering tool - Outdoor Blueprint teaches you about the history and uses of ice axes, and assist in finding the perfect ice axes for your next big mountain climb. 3 millimeters for the most fragile ice. I'm wondering is there a shift in thinking going on, and more are starting to use tools for general mountaineering? Jan 1, 2023 · There is some overlap between technical axes (like the north machine or quark for example) and ice climbing, but if you'll still end up with something not good most of the time, having the right tool for the job makes a huge difference. The Outdoor Gear Exchange has a large selection of ice climbing and mountaineering tools from Petzl, Black Diamond, CAMP, and Grivel. Let's talk about actual use of a Whippet and what situations you are likely to be in. Jan 2, 2025 · I've been chasing frozen formations in Alaska for decades. Most resources for ice axes focus on general mountaineering. As mentioned above the hammer on the Sum’tec is set a very poor angle for accurately striking anything but the side of a building. The grip is comfortable, with an ergonomic handle and adjustable GRIPREST handrest. Feb 28, 2024 · Shop the best ice axes! Compare the X-Light Ice Axe, Trango Altum, and Salewa North-X. Jan 14, 2022 · If you’re hiking or mountaineering at high altitude, your outdoor kit will probably include items like crampons and even an ice axe. Don’t let the “all-around” title confuse you; these are meant for ice climbing. Some days, all we need our axe to do is disappear in our pack, perhaps to come out in a steep or firm moment. See every climbing brand, compare every detail, and find the best price. How we test: Trailspace is powered entirely by our community of readers. Petzl and Singing Rock both make separate "dry" picks (i. Ice axe 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 and descent of routes that involve snow or ice covered (e. The grip makes plunging hard if not impossible so you lose security in non technical terrain (ie petzl nomic). Dec 10, 2017 · My girlfriend has recently discovered alpine mountaineering and am looking for ice axe advise. A hybrid tool has a straight shaft and a technical pick but for moderate mountaineering it’s Ice axe is an essential tool in mountaineering, indispensable for climbing ice and snow covered peaks, traversing glaciers, and ensuring safety on steep and frozen terrain. Preparing for a climb? 2 days ago · Looking for reliable ice axes for your mountaineering adventures? Explore our top 15 picks to stay safe and prepared while climbing the toughest peaks. And in steeper winter mountaineering routes Nov 5, 2017 · The axes I've looked at (DMM Apex, Petzl Quark, Singing Rock Bandit) all come with "ice" picks. It’s a popular choice among experienced climbers and skiers. What We Like: Its lightweight design reduces fatigue Sep 11, 2018 · Choosing the right ice climbing axe or mountaineering axe for you in 2020 can be really hard!In this alpine climbing vlog episode I will touch the difference Jan 10, 2019 · This review focuses on very lightweight mountaineering axes, the type of axe you'd want for ski mountaineering, approaching alpine rock routes, etc. And a classic straight ice axe will always be better for glacier travel and self arrest. Grivel, a renowned manufacturer, crafts axes with distinct designs, influencing the performance characteristics of the axes pick head. (And occasionally cutting steps, but hopefully by the time you're doing that, you will already know what you like. Sep 26, 2023 · An ice axe, in the context of modern technical skiing, is a different beast relative to mountaineering axes of years past. The NOMIC ice axe sets the standard for ice climbing. Jan 12, 2023 · From glacier travel to ice climbing, the best ice axes will provide the security needed to scale those big, intimidating slopes. But what makes the perfect all-around tool? We explain how to choose an ideal ice axe for mountaineering. As with all equipment there is a variety of designs for use in different terrains and for different purposes. Perfectly balanced and equipped with weights, it provides an exceptional swing. They provide support on steep slopes, help in self-arrest (stopping a fall), and are useful for cutting steps in snow or ice. May 13, 2013 · For general mountaineering, the common length was 70 cm and for climbing ice, the common length was 50 or 60 cm and the pick was curved downwards a bit more. com : Bobillow Outdoor Camping Ice Axe Walking Pick for Camping Aluminum Alloy Mountaineering Axe Glacier Climbing Tool Lightweight Design,70 Cm (Blue) : Sports & OutdoorsIce axes are essential tools for mountaineers, ice climbers, and winter hikers. Start your journey today! Dec 25, 2024 · The ice axe is an essential tool in the winter mountains, and this guide will help you with choosing between the many different types. Navigate snow and ice with confidence using our detailed guide to choosing ice axes and crampons. Jan 22, 2025 · What is the difference between an ice pick and an ice axe? Ice picks are smaller and used for breaking or shaping ice, while ice axes are for climbing or trekking. The straight shaft of the ice axe is much better at staying out of the way and burying the pick straight down into the snow/ice during a fall. May 13, 2013 · Many people use ice tools well; many others carry them to "look cool. An ice tool is shorter, and has a curved shaft and a reverse curved pick. Mar 6, 2025 · We evaluated these axes based on how well they suit Scottish winter climbing, where mixed terrain, including ice on rock, turfy ledges, and torquing in cracks, is common. May 1, 2025 · Explore the top ice axes for ice climbing, with expert recommendations on the best tools for performance, safety, and durability. They provide stability, enable you to cut steps in hard snow or test the depth of a snow drift. This isn’t meant to be a comprehensive review of individual ice axes or technique. Find your perfect tool for alpine climbing and mountaineering. Hybrid ice axes are more aggressive than a traditional mountaineering axe, yet less technical than an ice tool. Proper technique, taught by experienced mountaineers, maximizes the effectiveness of the axes pick head in icy Feb 12, 2024 · When looking for a climbing axe for your next adventure, be sure to consult our detailed assessment of the best ice axe. As everyone starts to gear up for thru hikes and early season snow travel, I thought I’d write an overview on ice axes. The wendigos have stopped calling my name in familiar voices. Perfect for climbers aiming for Rainier, Denali, and beyond. Some are applicable to hikers, some are not. We look at both straight and curve shaft options with a wide variety of uses, including technical, vertical ice climbing, ski mountaineering, and glacial travel. These come in a range of different lengths and styles, from the classic long, straight-shafted hill walking axe to slightly more technical curved mountaineering axes. So I did some quick research and here’s what I found. Trying to self-belay There is some overlap between technical axes (like the north machine or quark for example) and ice climbing, but if you'll still end up with something not good most of the time, having the right tool for the job makes a huge difference. Technical Axes/Tools As we Amazon. The next step is learning ho Jun 14, 2006 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Jan 20, 2025 · In this article, we delve into the best ice climbing ice axes currently on the market, providing detailed reviews to help you make an informed decision. Professional Ice Climbing Axes, Lightweight Outdoor Walking Pickaxe with Aluminum Material Length 24 * 60/70/80cm Weight 403g/432g/458g, Climbing Equipment for Mountaineering Hiking In this video I talk through a few different Petzl Ice axes and how to make better choices when buying your first tool or tools. " If you can find a copy, pick up and read Chouinard's "Climbing Ice. If you fall, you can (hopefully) use your ice axe to stop your slide to doom. In this article, we explain everything you need to know to make the best choice. We’ll explore various features, such as weight, grip, versatility, and durability, ensuring you find an axe that suits your climbing style and aspirations. ice climbing or mixed climbing) conditions. You are best saving these aggressive tools for high-end ice and mixed climbing. So I saw someone mention that long axe's like the petzl summit are something newbies use and all experienced mountaineers use… Independent ice/snow climbing device reviews by real outdoors people. 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. com : Bobillow Outdoor Camping Ice Axe Walking Pick for Camping Aluminum Alloy Mountaineering Axe Glacier Climbing Tool Lightweight Design,70 Cm Gray : Sports & OutdoorsIce axes are essential tools for mountaineers, ice climbers, and winter hikers. It is actually quite common to have a CE-T shaft with a CE-B pick. Depending on the terrains and routes you will encounter on your climb, it is typically unlikely that you can use an ice axe and an ice tool interchangeably. An ice tool is typically shorter and more curved as compared to an ice axe. These are generally heavier, more expensive and more durable. It demands skill, experience, and proper equipment. ) With the ice pick and some other things I’ve gone to a paladin build. dry-tooling) for the Quark/Bandit respectively. " It's old, but it's definitive in terms of how to use the mountaineering axe. Any part of the tool from the pick, adze, hammer and shaft can and will be hooked, twisted and jammed into iced-up rock to aid upward progress, and in such an environment all but the burliest models will come unstuck. The Dry mode reduces pick shift when alternating between upper and lower pommels, while Ice Amazon. She already has a pair of Nomics she has been using for continental ice for the past few years and really likes them. What I use in the Whites is a straight shaft axe that's 50 cm long. Jan 29, 2015 · It seems like I'm noticing more people using ice tools for general mountaineering as opposed to the traditional ice axe. Explore Black Diamond's ice & alpine climbing equipment for your next mountain adventure. You can view Winter and Alpine Hardware Review – Part 1: Classic Ice Axes and Crampons by clicking here. . If you are in the market for some technical tools, this is the review for you. A requirement for high mountain and glacier travel. A technical ice tool will have a much more extreme shaft and pick curve which both make self arrest difficult. Dec 8, 2022 · Cassin X-Dreams The Cassin X-Dreams are high functioning, modular tools. Independent mountaineering axe/piolet reviews by real outdoors people. Feb 5, 2021 · 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. Learn how to size your ice axe, the parts of an ice axe and key features to consider. An ice axe is one of the most indispensable tools when you are doing winter climbs or alpine climbing. zhrtqkaqtysetkbbfxjkiymeryfsgqmdzjckhgogxs