Walking ice axe length chart. This gear guide was first published in the February 2018 issue of The Great Outdoors. While grasping the head of the axe (between the pick and adze), the spike should come about to your ankle bone. General mountaineering axes are generally available in lengths ranging from 55cm to 90cm, though not all manufacturers make axes in this full range of sizes. What length ice axe should I choose? Ice axe length is measured from the top of the head to the tip of the spike. Jan 3, 2019 · Our guide to ice axes: what to look for, how to pick an axe for walking, and our selection of the best models. By Chris Townsend. Depending on their height, most people opt for a walking axe 55-65cm in length. It doesn’t matter at all. When there’s snow on the hills walkers need an ice axe. They are designed to be used singly rather than as a pair. See full list on outdoorgearlab. Oct 11, 2016 · Tips on choosing the right ice axe for walking and climbing in the winter hills. A mountaineering ice axe provides useful support when walking. The ideal sizing will depend on personal preference and the type of axe you’re using. As the slope gets steeper and you start getting into something more like ice climbing, you want a shorter ax or technical ice tools. This distance A shorter shaft makes this easier, so a compromise has to be made. Learn how to size your ice axe, the parts of an ice axe and key features to consider. Jul 12, 2023 · Every now and again I see folks on volcanoes with really long ice axe shafts, for the most part they usually just get in the way when they're on the backpack Breaking down an Ice Axe. Moved Permanently. The Pick: The . Jan 14, 2022 · Once you’ve narrowed down which type of ice axe you want, you’ll need to make sure you get the right length. com For example, one of our guides is 6’1″ (185cm) and their longest ice axe is 60 cm. Walking ice axes have straight or slightly angled shafts and lighter picks that are a bit weaker with less aggressive teeth. Technical ice tools are typically the same length, measuring 50cm. Over the last 10 years, we've tested over 21 of the best ice axes on the market. The mountaineering axe is the most versatile, and can be used for a variety of tasks, while the technical and alpine axes are designed for more specific purposes. What Length Ice Axe For Walking Ice Axe Length Height Proper Ice Axe Length Ice Axe Sizing Chart Rhea Lowery Outdoor Gear February 01st, 2020 - 04:01:24 Buying outdoor gear is usually a long term investment, so you should therefore buy for durability and substance over style. Mar 16, 2025 · Lucy Wallace reviewed axes with picks in the ‘Alpine’ style – gently curved and well suited to walking terrain and ice axe arrest. The document has moved here. Jun 10, 2019 · How to Size a Classic Axe. For less demanding terrains where the axe serves more as a walking aid, a longer axe is better. They say that, for a walking axe, the ideal length axe should brush your ankle when held with a straight arm. Raven Ice Axe Jan 22, 2025 · What are the best ice axes of 2025? Best in Test: Petzl Glacier Adze Ice Axe Best Value: DMM Spire Ice Axe Best beginner ice axe: Grivel G-Zero Ice Axe Best for versatility: Petzl Summit Evo Ice Axe Apr 17, 2025 · Types of Ice Axes. Feb 5, 2021 · Finding the right size and design for you can be overwhelming but here’s a sizing guide followed by a breakdown of features to help you choose. His most frequently used ice axe is 56cm, and he even uses a 45cm ice axe for ski objectives. Ice axe is not a walking stick and shouldn’t be used as one. In this video, Reuben from Next Adventure shows you how May 25, 2022 · Generally, there are three major types of ice axes; Walking/Non-technical ice axes; Technical ice axes/Ice tools, and; Highly-Specific Specialized ice axes; Walking/Non-Technical Ice Axes. But today most people use trekking poles on the trail, and want their ice axe to be short and Ice Axe Length Vs Height Chart Ice Axe Length Walking axes are typically 50 to 70cm long. Lightweight with an investment-cast, ergonomic, stainless-steel head, the Raven axe sits in your hand comfortably while glacier walking. You'll also have different axes for different activities i. For moderate terrain, you will want to size your ice axe a little longer than you might otherwise. This allows the spike to contact the snow while walking without having to uncomfortably bend over. Dec 20, 2013 · In reply to maxsmith: I went for the 66cm evo tech and I'm also 6ft tall with a small positive ape index. Learn more about choosing the right length and the features to look out for in the best ice axes from our gear experts below. You should use it mainly to break when you fall on snow, building anchors and so. Over the last hundred years or so of mountaineering, ice axe sizing and styles have changed greatly. However, the axe’s most distinctive feature is a soft plastic cover that fits over the central portion of the head. Feb 14, 2024 · Unusually for an ice axe, it’s also available in four colors. It''s the ideal excuse to nip off to the nearest gear shop and spend Sep 18, 2003 · Ice axes used to be very long I can remember using an ice axe as a walking stick when out hiking. Our modern take on Chouinard's original curved-pick mountain axe. Or better still, if you get the chance to try it out, the difference between your shoulder height and arm length. I none of the axes I regularly use fit into this rule, they are all shorter. These ice axes were all tested during the winter 2020/21 season during Lucy’s work as a Winter Mountain Leader and play (when she was locked down on The terrain you expect to get out on should also be factored in when deciding the size and type of ice axe you need. A long one is good for walking in cane position on a relatively low-angle slope. You can get hybrids which it what your photo shows that can do easy climbs. Since walking axes are mostly carried by the head, not the shaft, this addition is intended to make it more comfortable to hold in the hand. the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineer's piolet that has been used on climbs all over the world for decades. Reddit Ice Axe Length Walking Ice Axe Length Ice Axe Length Rainier Best Ice Axe Length Rhea Lowery Outdoor Gear February 01st, 2020 - 03:58:16 Now available on the market is a unique little sports watch that can remotely control an iPod, which enables the athlete to safely tuck away their iPod in their pocket so that they can run, paddle, or ski. How long your ice axe should be is partially determined by its usage, and also your height and body proportions. Steep Terrain The ankle 'rule' is a guideline. Length – Most mountaineering axes come in increments of 5cm, usually ranging from 50cm-70cm, although smaller and longer sizes are available. There are generally three types of ice axes: the mountaineering axe, the technical axe, and the alpine axe. The Shaft: Made of steel, aluminum, or carbon fiber. Winter. 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). a walking axe or a climbing axe. Ice Axe Length Sizing Chart Vs Height For Ski Mountaineering Mountaineering Ice Axe Sizing ice axes are measured in centimeters from the tip to the top of the head, and they generally come between 50 and 70 centimeters long. Try different holds on the axe and go with what feels natural. e. Ice Axe Length By Height Proper Ice Axe Length What Length Ice Axe For Walking What Length Ice Axe Should I Get Rhea Lowery Outdoor Gear February 01st, 2020 - 03:53:14 Whether you're a budget-conscious camper or a serious environmentalist, going for used outdoor gear instead of buying new ones can be a rewarding choice. The weight, curvature, and material of the shaft all influence what activity the ice axe is best for. The ideal pick shape is gently curved for a smooth self arrest. Make sure that the axe fits comfortably in the hand when held with the pick facing backwards. Jan 14, 2017 · There is no single best length for an ax, even for a particular person. In general the trend is towards producing all axes in one length. For any kind of vertical or near vertical climbing, you really want a shorter, technical ice axe with the right grip. I already own a pair of 50cm quarks, so I didn't see the point in getting a 50cm alpine axe as the quarks will do for most uses of an axe this length, sure the ice axe brakeing isn't quite as good on quarks, but there are many snow conditions where either braking isn't necessary (soft snow When it comes to sizing an ice axe, the key metric is your height. Find out how to choose the right ice axe for your intended use. fiudys qszilkve ppa vwvxb kwk dpkph ozjc osmae kxiui aiaqcac