Ice Climbing

Ice axes are an important tool to have in your possession for many circumstances. Ice axes are used by ski mountaineers, alpinists, ice climbers, high-country trekkers, and others. Most ice axes must meet the standards of several mountaineering and safety boards. That way you can be certain you have a reliable ice axe in hand. The length, weight, and shape are all important factors to consider at when buying an ice axe, as well as what you will be using it for.

Ice axes are multi-purposes tools, and when held in different ways, they have many different functions. Of course, you can use an ice axe to aid your way through ice climbing. Ice axes can also be used as a walking stick while trekking up an icy mountain. The pick end of the ice axe can be submerged into the snow to create a secure anchor for you to tie your rope around. Ice axes can also be buried vertically, this way it forms a stomp belay.

Two types of ice axes are used in different situations. Technical ice axes are used for steep and vertical ice climbing while basic ice axes are used for typical mountaineering and snowy conditions. The heads of ice axes are typically made of steel with a pic and a sharp flat cutting edge known as an adze. Ice axes also have the shaft of the ice axe which come in a variety of shapes and are made in as many different types of materials. Ice axes also have a spike on the end of the shaft which helps when the ice axe is used as a walking stick. More than often ice axes have a leash attached, this way your ice axe is always secured to your hand, ensuring you won't slip away from your ice axe, or your ice axe won’t slip away from you!