Ice axe sizing. Nov 24, 2024 · As you shop for your mountaineering ice axe, you’ll notice that the lengths range from 55 to 75 cm. How to Size a Hybrid Axe For steep terrain, you want your hybrid axe to be sized shorter than a classic axe. Ice axes come in a surprisingly wide array of lengths, so it's understandable that it can be a little confusing where to start. 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. To do this, you’ll need to take into account the following: the size of your hands, the length of your arms, and your overall height. While some are made for technical ice climbing, others are best suited to mountaineering trips. Generally speaking, you’ve got shorter ice axes and longer ice axes. Learn how to size your ice axe, the parts of an ice axe and key features to consider. A long one is good for walking in cane position on a relatively low-angle slope. As the slope gets steeper and you start getting into something more like ice climbing, you want a shorter ax or technical ice tools. In this video, Reuben from Next Adventure shows you how to determine the proper sized straight Apr 17, 2025 · How to Measure Your Ice Axe Before you can purchase the correct size ice axe for your needs, you’ll need to measure the length of your ice axe. If you want to purchase an ice axe in a climbing shop, the best way to know which axe size is appropriate for you is to follow these simple steps: I use a 57cm axe as my all-purpose general axe at 6’2 (186cm). Jan 14, 2022 · It might be tempting to just pick out the most rugged-looking axe you can find (check out our guide to the best ice axes you can buy) but knowing how to choose an ice axe is important to make sure you end up with the right type – and length – for your adventures. Ice axes aren’t all created equal. Over the last hundred years or so of mountaineering, ice axe sizing and styles have changed greatly. This guide should get you started on figuring out what size ice axe you need, and started on your next snowy adventure. What used to be common advice is now outdated. Jan 14, 2017 · There is no single best length for an ax, even for a particular person. I wouldn’t go longer unless my climbs contained long flat sections of hiking on glacier or rarely was steeper than 20-30 degrees pitch. What type of ice axe do you need? May 25, 2022 · For ice axes, size and length basically mean the same thing. Learning how to size an ice axe is crucial to technical mountaineering. Find out how to choose the right ice axe for your intended use. An ice axe is a versatile tool that could save your life in alpine regions, so choosing the right one is crucial. Perfect for climbers aiming for Rainier, Denali, and beyond. Axe length also needs to be factored into the buying decision. And they’re sold in 5cm increments. . It’s short enough to not get in the way when climbing anything steep and not too long when you’re side hilling. Tip: Ice axe sizes state the distance from the tip of the axe to the top of its head. Learn the nuances of gear selection for hiking, mountaineering, and technical climbs, and ensure your safety with our Mountain Logic recommendations. Jun 10, 2019 · 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. Navigate snow and ice with confidence using our detailed guide to choosing ice axes and crampons. qows fikpj ypmxj hwotdi idsy pls oijhvm psez sicszs qlakp