14 best ice axes
Ice axes are essential tools in mountaineering, climbing, and outdoor activities, particularly in icy and snowy conditions. They serve various purposes and are crucial for safety and stability in these environments. Here is some information about ice axes:
Design and Components: Ice axes typically consist of a metal head, a shaft, and a grip. The head is equipped with a pick and an adze or hammer. The pick is used for anchoring into ice or snow, while the adze (or hammer) can be used for chopping steps or clearing ice and snow.
Types of Ice Axes:
- Mountaineering Ice Axe: These are versatile ice axes designed for general mountaineering. They are typically lightweight and have a straight shaft, making them suitable for various mountain terrain.
- Technical Ice Axe: Technical ice axes are designed for more specialized ice climbing and technical mountaineering. They often have curved shafts for improved ergonomics and are used for steep ice and mixed climbing.
- Alpine Ice Axe: Alpine ice axes are a hybrid between mountaineering and technical ice axes. They are versatile tools suitable for a wide range of alpine activities.
Use in Climbing: Ice axes are used in ice climbing and mixed climbing, where climbers ascend frozen waterfalls, ice-covered rock faces, or mixed terrain that includes ice and rock. The ice axe's pick is driven into the ice to provide grip and stability.
Self-Arrest: One of the most critical uses of an ice axe is for self-arrest. In mountaineering, hikers and climbers carry an ice axe to stop themselves from sliding down steep slopes. By plunging the pick into the snow and using proper technique, a climber can arrest their fall.
Anchoring and Protection: Ice axes are also used to create anchors in the ice or snow. The pick can be driven into the snow or ice to create a secure anchor point for ropes and other safety equipment.
Size and Fit: Choosing the right size and fit of an ice axe is essential. The length of the shaft should allow for a comfortable grip and effective use of the pick and adze. Different activities and personal preferences may require different sizes.
Safety Considerations: Proper training and technique are essential when using ice axes. Users must learn self-arrest techniques and understand how to place the pick securely into the ice or snow. Safety equipment, such as helmets and crampons, is often used in conjunction with ice axes.
Maintenance: Ice axes require regular maintenance to ensure they function correctly.This includes sharpening the pick, inspecting the shaft for damage, and ensuring that the grip remains secure.
In conclusion, ice axes are critical tools for mountaineers and ice climbers, offering stability, safety, and versatility in icy and snowy environments. Choosing the right type and size of ice axe and mastering proper techniques are crucial for safe and successful climbing and mountaineering experiences.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best ice axes on the market
Grivel GZERO Axe 74 Black
Grivel
Product description
A new generation of walking axe. GZERO a very light ice axe for classical alpinism that still has all the characteristics of a Grivel ice axe including, head that provides maximum strength and minimal weight. The pick is classically neutral with ergonomic design that remains comfortable after hours of climbing. The brand insulating removable ergonomic blade cover lets the user firmly grip the axe by the head without risk of injury. It also protects the hand from contact with cold metal especially in low temperatures and high altitudes expeditions. The perfect tool to discover the mountains with added safety and comfort.
- Carbon Steel Blade
- CE Certified B Rated
- Package Dimensions: 7.5" L x 2.7" W x 28" H
- Country Of Origin : Italy
User questions & answers
| Question: | does it come with the leash |
| Answer: | It come as you see it with a leash. |
| Question: | In inches/ how long is this item top to bottom/ want to use as walking stick... thx |
| Answer: | From spike to blade it's 29.13". But with the guards in place, it's nearly 30". |
Petzl - GLACIER, Lightweight Performance Ice Axe for Glacier Travel
Petzl
Product description
Compact and lightweight, the GLACIER LITERIDE ice axe is the perfect choice for ski mountaineering, skiing steep chutes and fast-and-light climbing. It also has the benefit of great anchoring efficiency thanks to its very high-quality steel pick, guaranteeing both confident anchoring and great durability.
- HIGH QUALITY: The GLACIER LITERIDE's high-quality steel pick is identical to technical ice axe picks. The pick is designed to make cutting steps, anchoring, and penetrating hard snow easy. The anodized aluminum handle resists rusting.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Weighing in at only 320 grams, the GLACIER LITERIDE won't weigh you down on long treks and climbs.
- COMPACT: The GLACIER LITERIDE is only 50 cm in length, allowing for easy transportation when attached to your pack.
- EASY TO USE: This ice axe features a handle cut into the shaft that provides you better grip when technical ice climbing. Additionally, the upper part of the pick offers excellent grip and serves as a comfortable support surface.
- EXTRAS: Both the head and spike of the GLACIER LITERIDE are equipped with holes for clipping a carabiner or attaching a sling.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it comes with a leash? I don't see the picture |
| Answer: | Yes it does. In my opinion the leash is good enough quality I felt that I didn't need to upgrade it; I'd trust it with my life. PS- It's a nylon strap. |
| Question: | where are Petzl ice axes built? (i.e. country of origin |
| Answer: | All of the Petzl Ice Axes are currently made in France. Some of the accessories are made in other countries such as Romania and China. |
| Question: | does it come in a pair |
| Answer: | Hi, Unfortunately, this does not come as a pair |
| Question: | Does this come with a LINKIN leash |
| Answer: | No. You would need to purchase a lease separately. However, the Petzl Glacier Literide itself is fantastic. Best in class. |
CAMP Neve Ice Axe
CAMP
Product description
A sleek and elegant mountaineering axe with a forged steel pick designed to deliver solid placements in hard snow and provide quick and aggressive self arrests.
- General Mountaineering
- Forged chromoly steel pick and adze
- Carabiner holes at head and spike
- Symmetric steel spike plunges smoothly
- Equipped with sliding leash
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the ice axe weight for each length |
| Answer: | Hi there, Unfortunately, I was unable to find the specific weight on each size of this item. However, the general weight is 15 ounces. So one can only imagine that the different sizes would only makes grams of a difference. I hope this helps. |
PETZL - Summit EVO, Technical Ice Axe for Classic Mountaineering
Petzl
Product description
Designed for classic mountaineering, the SUMMIT EVO ice axe is the tool of choice for all types of alpine trips. Lightweight and with a waterjet-formed tube, it offers a very comfortable grip under the head of the axe. The technical design of the curved shaft provides the necessary clearance on steep, icy terrain. The forged and well-balanced head provides very good anchoring qualities. The grip of the shaft makes it a precise and efficient ice axe.
- HIGH PERFORMANCE: The SUMMIT EVO ice axe has a thin, toothed tip for good anchoring in hard snow and ice while the middle is thicker to anchor in soft snow. The SUMMIT EVO is the tool of choice for all types of alpine trips.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: The SUMMIT weighs between 400 and 450 grams (depending on length). It's light enough for longer treks and climbs while still weighing enough for good anchoring power.
- HANDLE: The handle is made of anodized aluminum that resists rust. Additionally, the adze has a handle cut into it to provide better grip.
- EASY TO USE: The upper part of the shaft is curved for good clearance when climbing while the lower part is straighter and provides efficient penetration in snow.
- EXTRAS: Both the head and spike are equipped with holes for clipping a carabiner or attaching a sling. The SUMMIT ice axe is compatible with the LINKIN leash.
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the weight in ounces/grams of this item |
| Answer: | It is 420 grams or 14.8 ounces |
| Question: | Does it come in a pair |
| Answer: | It is a single ice axe |
| Question: | does it come in a pair |
| Answer: | No. |
| Question: | Does the curved handle inhibit step cutting |
| Answer: | no, the angle is too large to prevent it from step cutting. |
Black Diamond Raven w/Grip
Great Lakes MP
Product description
Built from lightweight, aircraft aluminum alloy for high strength, the Raven with Grip is a traditional mountaineer's piolet for classic alpine climbs.
- Investment-cast, One-piece stainless steel head with a large hole for a carabiner
- Pick's Curve and teeth engineered for secure self-arresting
- Durable, aircraft-grade aluminum shaft
- Comfortable, dual-density molded grip
- Cen-b Certified
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this axe com with the lanyard |
| Answer: | I purchased mine last summer and yes it did come with a lanyard. |
| Question: | would it work for unstable soil climbing |
| Answer: | For unstable ground, like scree, mud, gravel, etc., you should really use trekking poles. Get a pair of them. If you use this in soil then you're just going to chew up the end. |
| Question: | Im 6 feet tall. What size would i need |
| Answer: | You might need longer than 21". U can use it as the pole as well. I regret to get 21" even though I'm 5'2" tall person. |
| Question: | What is the ideal length of a raven ice axe for primary use fo self-arrest |
| Answer: | A very general guide is : Your Height: under 5'8" Axe Length: 50-60cm Your Height: 5'8"-6'0" Axe Length: 60-70cm Your height: over 6'0" Axe Length: 60-75cm |
Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe 2020
Black Diamond Equipment
Product description
Black Diamonds modern take on Chouinards original curved-pick mountain axe, the Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe is a classic mountaineers piolet that has been used on classic climbs the world over for decades. Now redesigned, the Raven is lighter, and sports an updated investment-cast, stainless steel head ergonomically improved for increased comfort while walking. The updated pick and adze geometry allow for more secure placements and efficient chopping, and the revamped spike adds better bite on those icy placements with improved plunge-ability. The durable aircraft-grade aluminum shaft is also improved with a trapezoidal cross-section for a more comfortable, better grip. CEN-B certified. Weight: [55 cm] 428 g (14.98 oz) [60 cm] 445 g (15.58 oz) [65 cm] 462 g (16.17 oz) [70 cm] 478 g (16.73 oz) [75 cm] 495 g (17.33 oz) [80 cm] 512 g (17.91 oz) [90 cm] 528 g (18.49 oz)
- Black Diamond Equipment: Designing and constructing the world's best climbing, skiing & mountain gear since 1957
Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip 2020
Black Diamond Equipment
Product description
The Black Diamond Raven Ice Axe with Grip takes this classic mountaineers piolet, the Raven, and combines a new dual-density rubber grip and an updated Slider Leash for increased security and versatility. Now redesigned, the Raven with Grip is lighter, and has an updated investment-cast, stainless steel head ergonomically improved for increased comfort while walking. The updated pick and adze geometry allow for more secure placements and effcient chopping, and the revamped spike adds better bite on those icy placements with improved plunge-ability. The durable aircraft-grade aluminum shaft is also improved with a trapezoidal cross-section for a more comfortable, better grip. CEN-B certified. Weight With Leash : [55 cm] 486 g (17.01 oz) [60 cm] 503 g (17.61 oz) [65 cm] 520 g (18.20 oz) [70 cm] 536 g (18.76 oz) [75 cm] 553 g (19.36 oz)
- Black Diamond Equipment: Designing and constructing the world's best climbing, skiing & mountain gear since 1957
Ito Rocky Pro Beak Ice Axe - Anodized Gray
Peaky Handy
- Straight shafts are ideal for general mountaineering because they let you use the axe as a supportive cane on low-angle terrain and they plunge cleanly into the snow when you need to self-belay or use the axe as an anchor.
- Pick's Curve and teeth engineered for secure self-arresting.
- Investment-cast, One-piece carbon steel head with 2 holes for carabiner and leash
- Ergonomic Carbon Steel Blade Head.
- Aircraft-grade Aluminum Shaft.
PETZL - Ride, Compact, Ultralight Ice Axe for Ski Touring and Freeriding
Petzl
Product description
Ultralight and very compact, the RIDE ice axe gs everywhere with you for ski touring or glacier travel, without weighing you down. Solid placements thanks to the all-steel head, a pick tapered to 3 mm, and a bent shaft.
- HIGHLY TECHNICAL: The RIDE's steel head offers the same performance as a classic ice axe. The pick is tapered to 3 mm at the end for good penetration in ice.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Weighing in at only 240 grams, the RIDE won't weigh you down on long treks and climbs.
- COMPACT: The RIDE is only 45 cm in length and has a beveled spike, allowing for easy storage inside your pack and reduced risk of injury when attached to the outside of your pack.
- EASY TO USE: The curved shaft and machined grip make this ice axe easy to handle during climbs.
- COMPATIBILITY: The RIDE ice axe is compatible with Petzl's PICK AND SPIKE PROTECTION protectors and the LINKIN leash.
GRIVEL Nepal Self-Arrest Axe with Leash 66
Grivel
Product description
Everything about the Grivel Nepal S. A. Ice Axe has been designed to make self-arresting easier, quicker, and more secure. Not a bad thing considering that providing a solid self-arrest is the one thing that your axe absolutely must do.
- Material: [pick] steel, [shaft] aluminum
- Length: 58cm, 66cm, 74cm
- Leash Included: yes
- Claimed Weight: 1lb 0.9oz
- Recommended Use: ice climbing, mountaineering
User questions & answers
| Question: | Made in Italy |
| Answer: | Yes |
| Question: | Does it come in a pair |
| Answer: | Hellllos. Only 1 axe. |
| Question: | Does it come in a pair |
| Answer: | no this is a general mountaineering axe not for vertical/ice wall climbing |
| Question: | Can this thing save me? if i slipped and have to hang with it. how many lb would it hold? i'm |
| Answer: | If used properly this can aid in self arrest, It is not designed for vertical ice climbing it is a general mountaineering axe |
PETZL - Summit, Classic Mountaineering Ice Axe
Petzl
Product description
Designed for classic mountaineering, the SUMMIT ice axe offers an excellent balance between price and performance. It is lightweight and offers good anchoring performance of both the head and the spike; it is curved to offer necessary clearance for steep ice; it can be used in piolet-canne or piolet-rampe mode as well as in piolet-traction mode on short, steep sections.
- HIGH PERFORMANCE: The SUMMIT ice axe has a thin, toothed tip for good anchoring in hard snow and ice while the middle is thicker to anchor in soft snow. The SUMMIT can be used in piolet-rampe or piolet-canne mode.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: The SUMMIT weighs between 360 and 400 grams (depending on length). It's light enough for longer treks and climbs while still weighing enough for good anchoring power.
- HANDLE: The handle is made of anodized aluminum that resists rust. Additionally, the adze has a handle cut into it to provide better grip.
- EASY TO USE: The upper part of the shaft is curved for good clearance when climbing while the lower part is straighter and provides efficient penetration in snow.
- EXTRAS: Both the head and spike are equipped with holes for clipping a carabiner or attaching a sling. The SUMMIT ice axe is compatible with the LINKIN leash.
User questions & answers
| Question: | What cm length is this ax |
| Answer: | This ax is a 59. The manufacturer SKU is: U13B 059 |
| Question: | How do you determine what size to order? I'm fairly normal, 5'10", 175 lbs. Couldn't find a size guide anywhere |
| Answer: | I'm 6'1" . And ice axe length is determined by how you will use it . Longer for traversing flatter slopes shorter for more technical climbing. You need to determine what type of terrain you will travel over most on your trekking. Unfortunately there is no real set guide for the length you choose. Remember it is not a trekking pole. |
| Question: | Is this ice ax rated as 'technical' or 'basic |
| Answer: | This is categorized as a basic ice axe. |
| Question: | Does it come with a leash |
| Answer: | No, this did not come with a leash |
Black Diamond Venom Adze
Black Diamond Equipment
Product description
Combining the technical precision of an ice tool with the classic alpine functionality of a piolet, the Black Diamond Venom ice axe is the one tool to have for technical ski mountaineering missions, classic glacier routes and moderate snow climbs with short cruxes. The Venoms stainless steel head features a fully interchangeable pick design that is compatible with any Black Diamond pick. The integrated grip and asymmetrical angled shaft provide security and easy handling when swinging it like an ice tool, and a sliding FlickLock pommel offers an adjustable second grip for choking up on steep snow.
- Black Diamond Equipment: Designing and constructing the world's best climbing, skiing & mountain gear since 1957
User questions & answers
| Question: | Come as a pair |
| Answer: | No. |
Climbing Technology Alpin Ghiacciaio Tour Ice red red Size:70 cm
Climbing Technology
Product description
Ice axe Alpin Tour with strap for the hand, red, 60 cm
Lightweight aluminium high Tour axe with Becca hardened steel and non-slip grip with adjustable strap.
Details:
+ Length: 60 cm
+ Weight: 610 g
+ Colour: Red
+ Made in Italy
- Pickels type: high-mountain ice axe
- Ice axe from stem material: aluminium barrel
- Ice axe by standards: standard T-connection
- Standard weight: 590g
PETZL Quark Hammer Ice Axe
Petzl
Product description
The Quark is a versatile ice axe designed for technical mountaineering and for ice climbing. Its balance and its Ice pick allow solid placements on any type of ice. The Trigrest and Griprest handrests make it easy to handle and comfortable in any situation. They provide more efficient handle grip for difficult sections. Entirely modular, the Quark ice axe adapts easily to technical, varied terrain: snow couloirs, gullies, north faces, icefalls...
- Versatile ice axe for technical mountaineering and ice climbing
- Versatile ice axe
- Efficient placement on any type of ice
- Modular construction
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