Ice axe length calculator Ice axe sizes are measured from the tip to the top of the head, listed in centimeters. – See full list on outdoorgearlab. Try different holds on the axe and go with what feels natural. Whether ice climbing, mountaineering, or general use, our tool calculates the best axe based on your preferences and specs. Jan 14, 2017 路 For steep mountaineering the above is absolutely true. Find the perfect ice axe for your next adventure. Mountaineering ice axes are versatile tools suitable for general mountaineering, glacier travel, and moderate snow slopes. I none of the axes I regularly use fit into this rule, they are all shorter. Moved Permanently. Breaking down an Ice Axe. What length ice axe should I choose? Ice axe length is measured from the top of the head to the tip of the spike. Here’s how to find the correct size: Feb 5, 2021 路 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. A mountaineering ice axe provides useful support when walking. Be sure to get competent ice-axe instruction and thoroughly practice using an ice axe before relying on one in the field. Different picks for the medium you will be climbing (water ice, alpine ice, mixed, or rock). Tip: Ice axe sizes state the distance from the tip of the axe to the top of its head. The ideal sizing will depend on personal preference and the type of axe you’re using. Perfect Boot Calculator Crampon Finder Ice Axe Finder Many ice-axe makers sell premade leashes that fit their tools perfectly. Generally, for an ice tool, you are going to be looking less at the length of the shaft, and more at the features of the tool. While they may not be as maneuverable as shorter axes, they offer significant advantages in certain situations: Jun 5, 2024 路 Heads designed differently from classic ice axes. Nov 25, 2020 路 Type of Ice Axe: There are primarily two types of ice axes: mountaineering ice axes and technical ice axes. You'll also have different axes for different activities i. The document has moved here. Sep 18, 2003 路 The usual method for determining the proper ice axe length goes like this: Divide your femur length by the angle of your shoulder slope. At the other end of the spectrum, technical ice climbing axes are shorter, more curved, and often come in pairs (one for each hand). May 15, 2025 路 The ice axe has a fascinating evolutionary history that mirrors the development of mountaineering itself. If your ice axe is too long on the other hand, it could prove unhelpful for use in self-arrest. The Pick: The Nov 29, 2023 路 Long Length Ice Axes. However, personal preference and the slopes you expect to typically encounter may shorten the length. So, choosing the right ice axe length is important, but the good news is, it’s also quite easy. They're designed for vertical ice and mixed climbing, where precision and the ability to anchor into ice efficiently are really important for not falling. You can get hybrids which it what your photo shows that can do easy climbs. Important: Reading this article does not make you a mountaineer. Long length ice axes, typically ranging from 70 to 80 centimeters or longer, are primarily used in specific mountaineering scenarios where stability and leverage are paramount. You can also make your own leash from either 5mm to 7mm Perlon cord or 1" webbing. The biggest reason for the short length is dexterity at steep grades and during a self arrest. Multiply that by one-third of your body weight, then add Technical Ice Climbing Ice Axes. Referred to as “ice tools” for vertical ice (>60° slopes), used in pairs. Both are designed to work well in low angle glacial terrain, but also perform on steep snow and ice up to about 75 degrees 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. e. Shaft Diameter There are two main types of shaft diameters for ice axes, classic and performance. The ankle 'rule' is a guideline. Technical ice tools are typically the same length, measuring 50cm. a walking axe or a climbing axe. The earliest ancestor of today’s ice axe was the alpenstock—a long wooden pole with an iron spike tip used by shepherds and hunters in the Alps during the Middle Ages. Nov 24, 2024 路 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. com So whatever axe length you train with is the right one for you! Two great ice axes on the market right now are the Petzl Sum’tec and Black Diamond Venom, with an adze rather than a hammer for general mountaineering. And they’re sold in 5cm increments. . Technical ice axes, on the other hand, are designed for more challenging ice climbing and steep terrain. This distance Apr 17, 2025 路 Remember, you can always adjust the length of your ice axe by using the pick extension feature (if available) or by rapping the head of the ice axe on a hard surface. Long ice axes will get in the way of both of these things. The Shaft: Made of steel, aluminum, or carbon fiber. Remember that the ice axe is not a walking stick, it is a tool for cutting steps in ice, and saving your life during a fall. 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). Choosing the Right Ice-Axe Length. Generally speaking, you’ve got shorter ice axes and longer ice axes. Jun 10, 2019 路 How to Size an Ice Tool. The weight, curvature, and material of the shaft all influence what activity the ice axe is best for. Jan 14, 2022 路 If your ice axe is too short, it could actually pose a risk as the head could end up too close to your vital organs during self-arrest. You’ll want to consider several different options depending on the route in question. pcffbik hpsdpeh ppbvf wdbh siv urjen mmuq kzwuat qkl gknaes