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How to choose ice axe length a walking axe or a climbing axe. com. You'll also have different axes for different activities i. Choosing the Right Ice-Axe Length. Please turn off your ad blocker. 8m): 60-70cm >6'0" (>1. But today most people use trekking poles on the trail, and want their ice axe to be short and See relevant content for southeastclimbing. Shop for Ice Axes. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the essential factors to consider when choosing the perfect ice axe for your icy adventures. However, personal preference and the slopes you expect to typically encounter may shorten the length. When we talk about ice axes, there are three categories to concern yourself with: Mountaineering Axes. A 75 cm axe is quite long, and most people will find that it touches the ground on nearly flat terrain. Keep reading to learn about different types of ice axes, the activities they're best for, and how to choose one that's right for you. A rough guide to ice axe length is: <5'8" (<1. Steep Terrain Sep 29, 2013 · Choosing an Ice Axe Length: The length of an axe dictates where it’s useful. Learning how to size an ice axe is crucial to technical mountaineering. How to choose the right size of ice axe? Choosing the right size of ice axe is crucial for its effectiveness and comfort. Sep 18, 2003 · Ice axes used to be very long I can remember using an ice axe as a walking stick when out hiking. I none of the axes I regularly use fit into this rule, they are all shorter. Try different holds on the axe and go with what feels natural. Here's how to find your correct axe size for a classic mountaineering axe: 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. These traditionally-designed ice axes typically have a straight shaft that varies in length. The length of the ice axe should be proportional to your height and the activity you plan to undertake. Oct 19, 2018 · After your boots, an ice axe is possibly the single most useful piece of kit for winter walking. If you dig around the Internet looking for ice axe advice an you’ll probably find something like: “When holding the axe by your side the spike should touch your ankle. The Basics. Nov 24, 2024 · Reasons to choose a longer ice axe: you’re mostly going to be on low-angle snowfields; you’ll mostly use it to build snow anchors; you’ll mostly use it to probe for cornices and crevasses; Don’t get an axe longer than 70cm unless you’re tall enough to need an axe that size. Here’s how to find the correct size: Nov 25, 2020 · However, with a wide range of options available, selecting the right ice axe can be a daunting task. Technical ice tools are typically the same length, measuring 50cm. Modern axes are sold in 45 cm to 75 cm lengths. Referred to as “ice tools” for vertical ice (>60° slopes), used in pairs. e. See full list on outdoorgearlab. The Orgins of the Ice AxeThe predecessor of the ice axe was the alpenstock, a . Ice axe sizes are measured from the tip to the top of the head, listed in centimeters. Jun 10, 2019 · How to Size a Classic Axe. For example, if you are into steep mountaineering, a long walking axe is not the best idea. The ideal sizing will depend on personal preference and the type of axe you’re using. ” Basically, if you’re taller – your ice axe should be longer, right? Well, not quite. As Chris mentioned, the axe should barely touch the ground when standing upright and with arms at the side. Longer ice axes on the order of 65 or 70 centimeters are often recommended for general mountaineering, but these may, realistically, be too lengthy: On lower-angle slopes, you’re often better off just using a trekking pole, switching to an ice axe when the grade steepens past 30 degrees or so. Dec 25, 2024 · Choosing an ice axe. How long your ice axe should be is partially determined by its usage, and also your height and body proportions. To choose an ice axe, you will first need a clear idea of what terrain you will mostly be on. How To Measure For Ice Axe Size The ankle 'rule' is a guideline. Use it alone, or with the addition of crampons, for a secure day out in winter. Ice axe sizes state the distance from the tip of the axe to the top of its head; sizes are listed in centimeters because ice axes originated in Europe. For moderate terrain, you will want to size your ice axe a little longer than you might otherwise. Type of Ice Axe: There are primarily two types of ice axes: mountaineering ice axes and technical ice axes. Feb 5, 2021 · 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. This article looks at how to choose it and then how to use it, so that you can discover some of the great places the ice axe can take you. Jun 5, 2024 · Heads designed differently from classic ice axes. Longer axes are easier to plunge on flatter terrain, while shorter axes are easier to use in steep terrain. Try several in the hand if possible: the head and grip of some are more comfortable to hold than others. You can get hybrids which it what your photo shows that can do easy climbs. 72m): 50-60cm; 5'8"-6'0" (1. For hiking on snowy or glacial terrain, longer ice axes provide greater reach and comfort. This allows the spike to contact the snow while walking without having to uncomfortably bend over. 72-1. While grasping the head of the axe (between the pick and adze), the spike should come about to your ankle bone. com Jan 14, 2017 · This is sourced from REI's How To Choose An Ice Axe. 8m): 60-70cm; Too short is generally better than too long. What length ice axe should I choose? Ice axe length is measured from the top of the head to the tip of the spike. 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. llsvi ytryi ivdy sow kysdsvuj nssa uxk eodizr laii xlhndzj |
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