Ice axe length by height. Multiply that by one-third of your body weight, then add .

Ice axe length by height Steep Terrain Factors to Choose the Right Ice Axe Length. . The ideal pick shape is gently curved for a smooth self arrest. A good general guideline is to choose an ice axe that is around your chin height, give or take a few inches. Ice ax length depends as much on steepness of terrain as on height, the steeper the terrain the shorter the ax. Getting a well sized ice axe size is key for both safety and efficiency. While grasping the head of the axe (between the pick and adze), the spike should come about to your ankle bone. Parts of an Ice Axe. This allows the spike to contact the snow while walking without having to uncomfortably bend over. What length ice axe should I choose? Ice axe length is measured from the top of the head to the tip of the spike. Go too long, and it becomes cumbersome, affecting your mobility and maybe even tripping you up. However, personal preference and the slopes you expect to typically encounter may shorten the length. I know there isn't the perfect allround model but i still have to start somewhere. Make sure that the axe fits comfortably in the hand when held with the pick facing backwards. If your ice axe is too short, it could actually pose a risk as the head could end up too close to your vital organs during self-arrest. This distance Dec 20, 2013 · Ice axe length has fairly little relevance to your height, a shorter axe is more manageable, lighter and is easier to ice axe arrest without catching the spike. CurlyStevo 20 Dec 2013 In reply to maxsmith: A shorter shaft makes this easier, so a compromise has to be made. What Length Mountaineering Axe Should I Get? Measure by height Mountaineering axes are measured in centimeters, and are available in sizes ranging from 50 cm to 75 cm. Factors to consider when selecting the right mountaineering ice-axe length include your height—taller folks generally go for longer axes, for obvious reasons—but also what kind of high-country recreation you intend to be pursuing. Why Size Matters. 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. com Jan 14, 2022 · How long your ice axe should be is partially determined by its usage, and also your height and body proportions. So, how do you strike the perfect balance? The Carabiner Hole: Predominantly the attachment point for leashes, the carabiner hole also works in tandem with ice clippers on your harness to stow your ice axe on-the-fly. Apr 17, 2025 · The length of your ice axe should be relative to your height. There is no ‘ideal’ minimum or maximum – it depends on your height. Technical ice tools are typically the same length, measuring 50cm. For moderate terrain, you will want to size your ice axe a little longer than you might otherwise. A longer ice axe can still be used well in 45° terrain. Jun 10, 2019 · How to Size a Classic Axe. The length of the ice axe should be proportional to your height and the activity you plan to undertake. Generally, ice axes for softer terrain should be longer, while those for ice climbing should be shorter. Weight. If your ice axe is too long on the other hand, it could prove unhelpful for use in self-arrest. I'm currently looking into getting my first ice axe that fits my future endeavours best. If it's too short, you'll find yourself hunched over on inclines, which isn't comfortable or safe. When you shop for an ice axe, you'll need to know its basic components: Jan 14, 2017 · Also I would like to challenge the "shorter is better" claim based on my experience with ice axes from 66cm to 45cm at a body height of 1,80m. Weight is an important factor, especially if you will be carrying the ice axe during Sep 18, 2003 · The usual method for determining the proper ice axe length goes like this: Divide your femur length by the angle of your shoulder slope. Mar 16, 2025 · The best ice axes for you: Choosing the right length For David Lintern, this was the most confusing aspect of choosing his first axe – everyone had different ideas. Avoid getting an axe longer than 70cm unless you're tall enough to measure out as needing an axe that size. The document has moved here. Discover the benefits of using a shorter axe and the features of two versatile models. Multiply that by one-third of your body weight, then add 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. A short ice axe is useless in the lower steepness terrain. Depending on their height, most people opt for a walking axe 55-65cm in length. A longer axe, though, can be unwieldy to use during self-arrest because the spike can catch in the snow and send you and your axe flying. Learn why the old advice of choosing an ice axe length based on your height is outdated and how to find the right size for you. So far i did a lot of hiking, ferratas (D) and easy climbing (UIAA 1-2, without rope) around 2500m in the austrian alps. See full list on outdoorgearlab. Ice axes for general mountaineering, by contrast, may range from 40 to 90 centimeters in length. That’s why many more advanced climbers prefer shorter axes - they just don’t need the ax until things are quite steep, they’re fine with ski poles or nothing until then, and on that steep terrain a shorter ax will be better for swinging or dagger position or other things than Moved Permanently. The ideal sizing will depend on personal preference and the type of axe you’re using. A mountaineering ice axe provides useful support when walking. nfbp irssbp btkhjcq hinzeb ajfit wnfjmd hpkmgh yonwv jgnmm agnc