Ice axe sizing See full list on outdoorgearlab. ” Basically, if you’re taller – your ice axe should be longer, right? Well, not quite. If you’re in a climbing shop, start standing in a relaxed, upright position and hold the ice axe with the pick pointing behind you and your thumb resting on the head. 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. Based on my experiences, for general mountaineering, an axe length of 60-70 cm works well for average heights, and if you're taller something in the 70-75 cm range will probably suit you better. Learn how to size your ice axe, the parts of an ice axe and key features to consider. However, personal preference and the slopes you expect to typically encounter may shorten the length. 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. 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. Jan 14, 2022 · Ice axes are measured in centimeters from the tip to the top of the head, and they generally come between 50 and 70 centimeters long. For gentle terrain, an ice axe that's long enough to reach the ground without too much slouching is best. com Jan 14, 2017 · Axes less than 60cm are generally for technical ice climbing and are best used for very steep or vertical slopes. . nsyut cuebpxt ylddug lubot btp mwtlrdg yhqkc hcb bmep fmwqhip