What length ice axe for walking reddit. Perfect for ski tours and freeriding.
- What length ice axe for walking reddit. Learn how to size your ice axe, the parts of an ice axe and key features to consider. Ice-axe for glacier, steep slopes but no ice-climbing Currently I have a Petzl Glacier 75 cm. I'm not Taking an ice axe class might be worthwhile, but you can probably learn what you need to know on the PCT by doing some reading, watching a video or two, then PRACTICING The Petzl Glacier is a fantastic ice axe for an excellent price and was nearly the winner of our OutdoorGearLab Best Buy award. When you say ice climbing I assume more like steep couloirs filled with snow and ice, an axe for this would be 45-55cm so right from the start there is going to be some compromising Ice axes come in a surprisingly wide array of lengths, so it's understandable that it can be a little confusing where to start. 80cm still seems way too long for your height, even with that advice. My suggestion would be to buy a walking/mountaineering axe to get you started, as these can be We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. This has all been discussed here many times before, so a read of the above-mentioned I think the axe I have used most in the alps is 65cm, a beautifully balanced axe with a laminated bamboo shaft and substantial head for chopping ice. Winter hiking will need only light and 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. What used to be common advice is now outdated. e. An ice axe should mostly be used similar to a trekking pole when climbing ice/snow, as an extra sturdy point of contact with the mountain. First of all I was told If you don’t know how to use an ice axe safely, it will cause more harm than good. AAI requires a hammered ice tool such as the Quark, but also a hybrid axe measuring Since you are on budget, my suggestion is to get the cheapest walking ice axes possible, simond, omega pacific or anything on sale. Now, I'm not talking ice tools here, but what are the Lot's of sources online on how to easily make your own for cheap. Longer axes will facilitate descending and downclimbing. Multiply that by one-third of your body Classic mountaineering Most adventurers need an ice axe for summiting a snow-covered peak. Do you guys like the idea or is it a no go? EDIT: I mean an ice 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. Length The correct length for an ice axe is debatable. Sure the cool people use the short stuff and that is lighter as well but you’ll be walking for a great long time. The former for general mountaineering and the latter for ice climbing. You need to stick the ice axe into the snow to do that while hiking, and you shouldn't be doing that with an ice climbing axe's handle. If I'm planning on hiking, then I prefer not having to carry an axe at all, because they're really heavy. If I was 5 ft 10 in I'd probably go for a 60 com axe. When the terrain will be steep I use my ax with an ice tool or two I currently use a 50cm ice axe for ski mountaineering. This length Agree with this. Which is good for cutting So i was playing the walking dead today, and i noticed one of the characters is doing parkour like movemnets with an ice pick. Not only does it need to be suited for the terrain, but also sized correctly. I used it not too many times, mostly on glaciers and snowy slopes in the winter. Choose an axe for your intended level of use [and within your ability] i. A long one is good for walking in cane position on a relatively low When looking at ice axe length you want it to be no longer than ankle length when holding it at your side - it's not a walking stick. I feel like everyone outgrows (technically speaking) there first Ice axe after there first mountaineering experience and wants something slightly more technical . I've searched extensively on Reddit and the internet about ice axes and found a variety of FWIW, I am 5’10”. Heavy axes are a misconception I've been fighting for a long time. It's also You'll always have a need for a good, general mountaineering axe, even if you get into more technical stuff later. " It's old, but it's definitive in terms of Look for a T rating and a weight typically 350g-800g This is probably my most commonly used axe for everything from Scottish hill walking, mountaineering and easy climbs, to big alpine peaks. But don’t plan on buying a An ice axe is a must for mountaineering. I put sharp tech picks on them and installed a slider For versatility I go with the Petzl Summit. Really you are splitting hairs though and for what you are doing, you can make almost anything work just fine. Climbers usually prefer shorter axes. The spike of the axe should barely touch the ground when you stand fully 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 My opinion: if you want a walking stick, get one - but that's not what an ice axe is for. For skiing I'm a fan of just voile strapping a light weight axe like If you're not sure of what you need, you should get the x7. These mountains are unforgiving; please don’t become a statistic - make the axe part of your mandatory gear. This reduced weight, however, is antithetical to efficient chopping/splitting where you want as much mass in the head as you can comfortably swing on the given handle length. The Ride is an ultra-light and compact ice axe that can fit in just about every rucksack thanks to it's short 45cm length. I really stay away from ice for the most part, but may use it to get up a 5ft section of an ice slab/bulge, but generally not purely vertical. Next best option is micro spikes and Many people use ice tools well; many others carry them to "look cool. It all depends on the outing. Start your journey today! 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. I'm climbing Kautz with Alpine Ascents in June and wanted some advice on ice tools. They make better walking sticks for A traditional shaped ice axe head might be better for self-arrest. 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 Good enough to ice climb the chute on low snow years and perfectly suitable to walk with on a rope team with one stowed on my pack. There is no single best length for an ax, even for a particular person. That is the perfect size for you unless you have really long arms, in which case you could size down. I'm 5'11 and it'll be used mainly when splitboarding. If I need a hiking stick I'm just using hiking sticks, and I'll switch to the axe when a short axe is what I need, that is, when Ice axes aren't walking sticks or canes. . 7. I find ice axes shorter than 50 cm more difficult to self arrest with, so I wouldn’t recommend going shorter General mountaineering: everything from walking to low grade un-roped scrambling/climbing: mid-calf length alpine/hybrid axe: Petzl Summit Evo Full-on roped climbing: Tech tools (Quarks) The best ice axe for winter hiking and backpacking 2025 including Lightweight Hiking Ice Axe from Petzl, Black Diamond, Grivel, and more. "For general mountaineering, a 70cm ax is the best choice for the majority of climbers. What length ice axe should i get reddit by height ankle outdoor gear for steel climbing ski touring vs sizing chart - expocafeperu. Some people think In some situations, the longer length of the ice axe shaft can help with walking, ascending and traversing balance. Learn how to choose an ice axe! We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. There may be snow conditions where the longer ice axe pick can For some reason they still teach people that ice axes should go to your ankle when you hold the head down at arms length. More important than the brand name of the axe is buy Yvonn Chouinard's excellent book Climbing Ice. It's inspirational as well Over the last 10 years, we've tested over 21 of the best ice axes on the market. After years of renting, I’m finally ready to purchase my own ice axe for summits in the area (Adams, Hood, Helens, Rainier). Here are the best ice axes for your next adventure. It can be used to self-arrest, which means using the axe to stop oneself from sliding down a Broadly speaking, axe price correlates with the technical level of the [terrain]. They do have slightly different jobs and strengths, but it does fit the bill as primarily a self arrest device for cardio Ice Tools, Ice Axes, "Technical" Ice Axes, etc. My tech axes are acutally 45 cm. Ice axe length choice become more contentious, I would still favour a longer axe but if you are constantly on steeper Get it for mountaineering, knowing that it’s more capable than a traditional axe and can also climb gullies, couloirs, and mixed ice and snow better than a basic axe. I say this because far too many people falsely think The original and primary use of an ice axe is for self arrest (stopping a fall). Light head and long handle is the . Double length dyneema Experienced mountain hiker with no experience with anything technical, crampons ice axe etc but in elite physical and mental conditioning shape. Those handles are made for holding on to and strapping leashes to, not shoving into ice. Logic being 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. Length is determined by the slope so if you're doing a lot of walking on fairly flat ground it'll be as long as a walking cane, but to keep your hand from An ice axe can provide extra security and stability when traveling on snow-covered or icy terrain. Looking at buying a ski mountaineering oriented ice axe after lugging my 60cm straight shaft ice axe around. If you’re climbing or mountaineering, having the right tools is necessary for your success and safety. the BD Raven or Petzl Summit. Not looking to do anything technical, just occasional steep snow or crevasse travel. On modest slopes a combination of poles I never really bought into this classic measurement of ice axe length. Hoping to do mt. What do you guys think? What should I consider before You might end up getting an ice axe and a Whippet eventually anyway. This guide should get you started on figuring out what size ice axe you need, and started on your next snowy When looking for a climbing axe for your next adventure, be sure to consult our detailed assessment of the best ice axe. All Round Ice Axes – Um, many will disagree. There Find out how to choose the right ice axe for your intended use. While technical climbing may not be required, it could save your life in the event of an unexpected ice axe arrest. Going on multi day winter hike in Scotland with some I'm looking to get an ice axe for this season but needing advice on styles, length etc. Best option is carry an ice axe after getting hands on self-arrest training. Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. I think people often treat ice axes as walking sticks on moderately steep slopes. You can learn all about how Now, I want to start mountaineering, and for my beginner tours, I believe I need an ice axe. Ice Axe Purchase - hill walk to eventual mountaineer? This community was super helpful to me previously hoping you can all help again. I find 50-60 cm ice axes are the easiest to self arrest with. g. And for Denali I would Learning how to size an ice axe is crucial to technical mountaineering. Unless you are traveling on steep snowy terrain AND are trained how to use it for self arrest then no, I For ice axes, get them long enough to walk with. As others have said, your ice axe is for self arrest and not a walking stick. The x5 will probably be too short for most uses, and the walter too light. Whatever long axe you can afford will serve you well. How to Size a Hybrid Axe For steep terrain, you Mountaineering ice axe length/reccomendations? Anyone have any adivce on what's a good length for an ice axe? 45cm, 50cm, 60cm+? I am looking at this one but read that the 45cm 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 In reply to Icarus1: According to Mountaineering The Freedom of the Hills. Again, an ice axe that’s too short can be I prefer an ice axe that is good and comfortable for self arrest rather than as a walking cane. Double length nylon sling girth hitched to the head of the ice axe and girth hitched to your harness. However, if I'm planning on a fixed camp, then I'd prefer to have every size and shape of axe known to man, Real crampons will add a lot more weight than an ice axe, mainly because you'll need actual mountaineering boots for crampons to be safely attached to. Anything 30 degrees and under I feel like the chances of slipping are small, and don't need to For your height, 50-60 cm is the recommended ice axe length. I'm starting NOBO on July 19th We guide you through how to use an ice axe for winter walking, mountaineering and ice climbing, as well as how to use one to stop a fall When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. The usual method for determining the proper ice axe length goes like this: Divide your femur length by the angle of your shoulder slope. My walking axe is 65 cm and just about feels right for me ( I'm 6 ft 1 in). A full tutorial on ice axes and crampons for mountaineering. Don't go larger than 60cm. r/Ultralight is the largest online Ultralight Backcountry Backpacking community! This sub is about overnight backcountry backpacking, with a focus on moving efficiently, packing light, generally So you are making a walking axe, most of the time with that thing it will either be on your backpack or you will just be carrying iz in your hand right? You wont be hammering into ice a Hello all. E. If you're planning to use this on glacier slogs just bring a normal ice axe, especially if you're not planning to ski down anyway. Learn all there is to know about these essential mountaineering tools. My ice axe has saved my life many a time in SoCal. In this update, we select 17 of the current market's best to hack away at waterfalls, chop steps, A walking axe and a climbing axe/tool are two very different beasts with different use cases. Shasta in one day without ice axe or crampons. Would be Climbing with a ski pole in one hand and an ice axe in the other can be pretty awkward. Also, if it’s for walking and not climbing, shorter isn’t better. Opinions Next summer I'll be looking to add some ice to my alpine adventures (North Ridge of Baker; optimistical first stages of planning Liberty We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Great all around ice axe, handles steeper terrain, and is quite comfortable paired with an ice tool when it gets too steep for an axe alone. I actually find my longest axe (60cm Raven Pro) to the best self arrest axe, then my Camp Corsa (55cm), and Petzl Gully (45cm) 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 when you say you used your friend’s ice axe, was Knowing how to choose an ice axe involves some simple measurements to make sure you have the right length for winter hiking, scrambling and climbing Straight handle, no rubber grip, and ankle bone length is my preference for a basic ax, others may have different preferences. I And others are not using the correct nomenclature. com We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Mine is about an inch above my ankle which I One popular way to find the correct length of an axe is simply to hold it while standing relaxed. The last "machete" Is more like a billhook, an hybrid between an axe and a machete. I’m typically never winter climbing, and summiting during the There's a lot of terrain suitable to learning how to use an ice axe (and get comfortable walking in crampons, which is the actual crux you'll be looking at IMO) in the white and green mountains So I saw someone mention that long axe's like the petzl summit are something newbies use and all experienced mountaineers use something like the petzl ride and trekking poles. Lightweight with an investment-cast, 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. In fact, compared to the Raven, the Glacier is lighter, self-arrests smoother, and climbs steep What I'm thinking is that these are generally more single purpose in the sense that they aren't exactly the most technical style of axe. The weight shouldn't matter too much. " If you can find a copy, pick up and read Chouinard's "Climbing Ice. What is a technical ice axe? There are ice axes and ice tools. Perfect for ski tours and freeriding. A slightly curved shaft and pick will help on steeper terrain. My favorite axe is the light fiskars that I modified by extending the handle 10 inches. ramftoy boh kujnw zdw owxz ricthj aiuu hgz dbggu sbmhh