Best petzl ice axe review. Best beginner ice axe: Grivel G-Zero Ice Axe.

Best petzl ice axe review Designed for classic mountaineering, the SUMMIT ice axe offers an excellent balance between price and performance. Highly technical: - Ice axe with steel head offering the same performance as a classic ice axe - Pick tapered to 3 mm at the end for good penetration in ice - Curved shaft and machined grip for good handling Compact: with only 45 cm and a beveled spike, the axe can be stowed inside the pack: - Reduces the risk of injury when the axe is attached Nov 15, 2024 · The Petzl axe has an adjustable trigger rest and recurved pick with a narrow profile, suggesting that for climbing steep ice it is the better of the two, due to the more secure and less-fatiguing grip feature. It is the best swinging of the three lighter axes in this review by far, and perfectly bridges the real estate between minimalist axes and alpine climbing tools. How do you choose the best ice axe for your needs? Whether you are looking for an ultralight model for ski mountaineering, one with a modular head for steeper snow routes and complex glacier climbs, or a solid all-arounder to handle the full gambit of routes and conditions, we highlight some key factors to consider below. 7; Weight (ounces): 9. Feb 12, 2024 · Finding the best ice axe can be tricky. In summary, if you're someone who hikes and climbs in moderate terrain and are looking for a lightweight, simple, yet reliable ice axe, then the Petzl Glacier, according to many online reviews, would be a strong contender. The pick is in a reverse curve, making it more aggressive, which really gives you an advantage on ice and gives you the best chance in a self-arrest. The Snowracer is the best price for a sub 14 oz ice Sep 19, 2022 · While it was first designed for their ice climbing tool range, Petzl’s Trigrest is a really nice addition to the Gully. This tool helps you navigate icy terrain, providing both support and safety. The Summit Evo is the most technical and aesthetically the most attractive ice axe reviewed. 4. The Snowracer compares with any ice axe we tested in the price to weight ratio. Ultra-light ice axe: 280 grams; Compact: only 45 cm; Pick type: 1; Shaft type: 1; Material(s): steel, aluminum, nylon; Certification(s): CE, UIAA; Where to buy. Best beginner ice axe: Grivel G-Zero Ice Axe. This 66cm axe is designed for classical alpinism, meaning it’s perfect for mountaineering and ice climbing where a balance of weight and strength is key. Of course, climbing steep ice is really the realm of much more specific—and much heavier—tools. It boasts a surprisingly capable pick and adze, a comfortable and Jan 28, 2022 · The number of different modular-headed ice axes has increased in the past few years, and manufacturers are responding to this rapidly growing hybrid category. If you had to choose just one ice axe to handle a wide array of alpine activities, the Petzl Summit Evo would be the top contender. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced mountaineer, choosing the best ice axe can make a big difference in your performance. Petzl Nomics are the best tools I've ever used. Mar 21, 2019 · The Summit checks in at 12. This review is part of our ice axes gear guide, and was first published in the February 2018 issue of The Great Outdoors. 4 ounces, it is the lightest CEN-B rated ice axe on the market and excels at applications where every ounce matters and the terrain and conditions you expect to encounter aren't too burly. 3mm at the tip. CAMP Corsa Nanotech: This Ice Axe is a cutting-edge, ultralight ice axe designed for ski mountaineering, high-altitude climbing, and glacier travel, where weight savings and packability are paramount. 0 out of 5 stars 7 2 offers from $7999 $ 79 99 Top 7 Best Ice Axe in 2024Links to the Best Ice Axe we listed in today's Ice Axe review video:1 . Digging and Step Chopping The Air Tech Evo was one of the best step choppers, T-slot makers, and icy tent platform creators, no matter how hard the ice was. A classic 12-point crampon this is as good as it gets when it comes to versatility in a crampon (covered more in-depth in Winter and Alpine Hardware Review – Part 1: Classic Ice Axes and Crampons - click here). However, ice axes with carbon fiber shafts are lighter. The average ice axe will be between 50cm and 75cm. Mar 21, 2019 · The Petzl Glacier is a fantastic ice axe for an excellent price and was nearly the winner of our OutdoorGearLab Best Buy award. Jan 28, 2019 · The Air Tech, along with the Petzl Summit Evo, Grivel Air Tech Racing SA, and Petzl Summit offered by far the best self-arresting performance in our review. The next step is learning ho Mar 9, 2024 · 4. If I was mounting one of these axes on a wall this would The Petzl Sum'Tec is a true hybrid of a traditional ice axe and an ice tool. . Full winter conditions in the hills and mountains present an added challenge for even the most experienced hill walker or mountaineer. The reverse curve makes the pick easier to remove from hard ice. Sep 29, 2023 · Best Overall Ice Axe. This Petzl Summit ice axe is a slightly less technical version, lacking the Evo’s rubber grip and hydroformed aluminium shaft. At just 280 grams, it’s one of the lightest technical axes on the market, yet it still features a fully steel pick that delivers solid performance on steep snow, ice, and mixed terrain. The Petzl Summit Evo received 4. What To Look For When Buying an Ice Axe. Google Outdoor Gearlab Ice Axe if you want a detailed review of different axes. The Sum'tec is the brainchild of the late Ueli Steck (along Dec 11, 2019 · The adze is undersized compared to most general mountaineering models, and its pick and adze are filled will holes. One of the most important is a mountaineering ice axe. Feb 2, 2021 · For those who want to progress to steeper ski mountaineering objectives, Petzl also make a very similar ice axe with a beefier head and a trigger rest, the Gully. The Grivel GZERO Ice Axe is a popular choice for climbers who value lightweight gear without sacrificing performance. Differences in ice axes are pretty minor, and they are going to accomplish the same tasks. Oct 21, 2024 · Best Ice Axe for Winter Hiking 2025. com/dp/B07NF19HTZ2 Independent ice tool reviews by real outdoors people. Dec 20, 2019 · Petzl say: QUARK is a versatile ice axe designed for technical mountaineering and for ice climbing. Mar 21, 2019 · Low weight is certainly why you buy this ice axe. Feb 14, 2024 · The best icy outdoor adventures demand the best ice axes. While we’re not saying that well seasoned climbers shouldn’t utilize this axe, it will really work well for anyone not used to using an axe. Despite all these things, we didn't feel like Petzl cut any corners when it came to its steep snow climbing performance or ability to self-arrest - two of the most important characteristics of an ice axe. RRP: £170 Read more: Petzl Sum'Tec review (1) Black Diamond Raven Pro (3 reviews) $140 at REI $ Best in class ice axe for all around mountaineering use. May 18, 2015 · The Grivel G1 is best for general mountaineering applications and is suitable for early season backpacking or ski mountaineering, but is a little heavy. The Best Ice Axe for Winter Hiking 2025 is: Best Overall: Petzl Glacier; Best Budget Ice Axe: Black Diamond Raven; Best Ski Mountaineering Ice Axe: Petzl Summit Evo; Best Mountaineering Ice Axe: Black Diamond Venom; Best Thru-Hiking Ice Axe: Camp Corsa; Grivel G1 Jan 17, 2024 · Best Mountaineering Axe: Petzl Summit Evo Ice Axe; Best Value Technical Ice Tool: Trango Raptor Ice Axe; Best Value Mountaineering Axe: Grivel G1 Ice Axe; Best Size Range in Mountaineering Axes Apr 11, 2024 · Lightweight enough to throw on or in the pack “just in case” and pretty capable on steep snow; agree that it makes a lot of sense for backcountry skiers who don’t yet own an ice axe to skip the BD Raven/Petzl Glacier type axes in favor of the ride or Hummingbird. 5 / 10 – Updated [current_date format=’F, Y’] Latest Price: £280. Jan 12, 2023 · When looking at all of these categories, we felt that the Petzl Summit Evo ice axe did it the best. It is measured from the tip of the axe to the top of the head. The TRIGREST and GRIPREST handrests make it easy to handle and comfortable in any situation. Dec 11, 2019 · Do You Need an Ice Axe. More info at: www. The Sum’tec comes with Petzl’s ICE pick, a very versatile T-rated pick that tapers from 4mm to 3. 6 ounces, which is one of the lighter general mountaineering axes in the review. The curved axe head and handle make for an ice axe that is comfortable to hold, easy to carry, and still have enough weight to keep you safe while traveling through the mountains. Combining advanced materials, innovative design, and superior performance, this ice axe is the ultimate choice for fast-and-light alpine pursuits. Most people aren’t doing sustained ice climbing on lines that they want to ski down. The type of axe that you want for ski mountaineering, approaching alpine rock routes, etc. Mar 16, 2025 · Alex Roddie reviews the best ice axes, an essential tool for managing risk in snowy mountains, with additional testing from David Lintern and Lucy Wallace. The most important factor of an ice axe is its length. It's the brainchild of the late Uli Steck (with influence from Kilian Journet and Colin Haley, and others) who wanted a lighter less technical ice tool that could perform the basic functionalities of an ice axe, without giving up a pick that offers a high level of technical performance. Jan 3, 2018 · A technical ice axe designed for mountaineering. 1 / 10. There are better axes for continuous ice use and cutting, but for routes up to Grade III, this axe can last a whole career in the mountains. The PUR'ICE pick provides efficient placement in any type of ice. 99 • Petzl | Amazon | Moosejaw. Feb 10, 2019 · Petzl Gully Ice Axe specs. Best for versatility: Petzl Summit Evo Ice Axe. There are several types of axes, ranging from those intended as a winter hillwalking aid through to aggressive models designed for climbing. RRP: £140. Alex Roddie 16 March 2025 / 10:04 GMT 17 March 2025 / 17:10 GMT Aug 19, 2020 · With a reverse curved head, low volume tip for ice penetration and a short lightweight shaft, the Petzl Gully packs technical prowess in a very minimal 280g package. We’ll take a look at fitting in the moment, to make sure you get the right size, but here are the main features to consider when you’re buying an ice axe. Colder temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns and fewer daylight hours make factors like kit selection, route planning and assessment of conditions May 18, 2015 · At just under $80 the Petzl Snowracer is the best deal on an ultralight ice axe. Petzl Nomic reviews (3 Chouinard Equipment Blue Composite Shaft Ice Axe w/Curved Pick reviews (2 The average review score that we gave on all our Ice Axes reviews is just 7. Pick up a Quark Feb 4, 2019 · Best For Beginners One thing that the reviews mention again and again is the fact that this ice axe is great for beginners. Its balance and its ICE pick allow solid placements on any type of ice. Aug 16, 2018 · PETZL - Gully, Ultralight Ice Axe for Technical Mountaineering and Skiing, Adze. Our top piece of advice here is to really spend some time reading the customer reviews over at Go Outdoors, you really will get a good idea of the key benefits, pros and cons of this Oct 2, 2020 · The Petzl Sum’Tec is a truly advanced ice axe that can even be used as an ice climbing tool. In all my retail experience selling ice axes, I generally tell people not too worry to much. At 7. Feb 12, 2022 · Petzl Vasak. Non sketchy but would like a bit of a nicer hold while climbing - whippet Sketchy to point of needing one tool - ice axe Pretty sketchy with one tool - ice axe and whippet Two tools required - steep to near vertical ice Remember ice axe = boot crampons and a helmet. The Petzl Summit Evo Ice Axe is a technical and versatile option that works well on basic mountaineering, hill walking, cutting steps, and digging into snow. The Best Ice Axe – Top 5 Picks & Review / Buying Guide / By Marc McCollough Buying Guide / By Marc McCollough Mar 15, 2019 · Petzl say: The NOMIC ice axe sets the standard for ice climbing. Not the type for alpine ice or mixed routes that require a much sturdier tool. GLACIER LINKIN is available in four lengths: 50, 60, 68, and 75 cm. 6 out of 10 whereas the review score we gave Petzl Quark Ice Axe (Hammer) was 9. Note: The Gully is offered with an adze or hammer. 9; Aluminum shaft; Stainless steel head; Non-modular head; Slightly curved shaft; Are you looking for super light gear? Then the Petzl Gully Technical ice axe for you. It really is beautiful. As its name suggests, the Petzl Glacier is an axe primarily designed for glacier travel. Jan 10, 2019 · This comparison review will focus on lightweight mountaineering axes. May 15, 2024 · The pick and spike corrosion resistant tip will have you using this ice axe for seasons to come. He writes, "If you already have a set of the last Quarks, maybe you don't need to jump to an upgrade just yet, but if you want a set of axes that handle it all, and are in the market for To help prevent dropping the ice axe, it is equipped with a removable leash that can be adjusted from 50 to 75 cm in length. Best Value: DMM Spire Ice Axe. This non-modular ice axe is designed to conquer steep snow and ice routes with ease and navigate complex glacier terrain like a true champion. Dec 11, 2019 · The Petzl Gully is a unique model that blurs the lines between an ultralight ice axe and an ice tool. As a longtime user of the earlier models, he reports that the tools continue to live up to his expectations. But actually, its versatile design has earned it a reputation as one of the best all-round hillwalking and mountaineering ice axes on the market today. What this model might lack in versatility, it certainly makes up in its very focused design. The Bottom Line: As a mountaineering axe Feb 17, 2025 · Good for the steep stuff, Alex Roddie recommends the Petzl Summit ice axe. The line-up includes: Corsa Nanotech; Petzl Gully and Ride; Grivel Ghost and Ghost Evo; Black Diamond In this video I talk through a few different Petzl Ice axes and how to make better choices when buying your first tool or tools. It has a reasonable price and excels in all of the points listed above, making it the perfect all-purpose mountaineering axe. Pretty much the same axe but some people are specific on brands, I regularly use my raven pro but jealous of my SOs summit cause it's a cool black lol If we could only own one ice axe, this would be it: Built with versatility and steep alpine routes in mind, this model has the shaft of an ice axe with the head of an ice tool: A surprisingly versatile axe considering its impressively low weight: A solid general mountaineering axe for a great price: Rating Categories: Black Diamond Venom: Petzl 3 days ago · Best Technical Ice Axe 9. It gives you the option of making use of a hand rest when you’re swinging the axe like a normal ice tool, yet can still be unlatched and slid up to the top of the axe to stay out of the way when you’re plunging the axe. Reverse curve picks are designed for sustained climbing on steep ice. This is a great ice axe for ski mountaineers or early season hikers not wanting to throw down the extra $30-$40 for a Raven Ultra. I have the Petzl Summit and I really like it. Amazon price $191. Petzl Sarken. Perfectly balanced, great precision and yet still tough enough to take Scottish winter beatings! Looking forward to making full use of them over the next few months, some ice fall climbing in Norway first and then fingers crossed for some primo UK winter conditions. 95; Best for technical mountaineering and steep skiing; Length (inches): 17. Andy Turner on the Petzl Nomic Oct 26, 2017 · The Petzl Summit Evo Ice Axe is probably the best choice overall when it comes to mountaineering through rough terrain and heavy snows. Dec 8, 2022 · Petzl Glacier: first impressions. $149. Apr 28, 2025 · When tackling tough mountain climbs, having the right tools is essential. patreon. Also prioritize weight. Get an ice axe that goes to around the bottom of your calf. In fact, compared to the Raven, the Glacier is lighter, self-arrests smoother, and climbs steep snow better, while the Raven offers a better price tag. 5 stars and a Recommended rating from David Lintern when he tested it in 2023. 3 ounces, and performs pretty similarly overall. Buying an Ice Axe for Hiking and General Mountaineering – What is important? Material: The shaft of ice axes is made of steel, aluminum or carbon fibers. 4 out of 5 stars 47 #1 Best Seller Mini Review of The Petzl Ice Haue (Replacing May 1, 2025 · The PETZL Gully is a highly compact and ultralight technical ice axe designed for ski mountaineering and steep alpine climbing. The shape of the ice axe and the double handle offer multiple grip modes, as well as stable hand switching. com/RyanTilleyClimbingandAdventuresInst Dec 11, 2019 · If we could only own one ice axe, this would be it: Built with versatility and steep alpine routes in mind, this model has the shaft of an ice axe with the head of an ice tool: A surprisingly versatile axe considering its impressively low weight: A solid general mountaineering axe for a great price: Rating Categories: Black Diamond Swift: Petzl Jun 17, 2020 · Alpinist Tad McCrea has been using the latest model of the Petzl Quark ice tools for the past year. 50 Scottish-style mixed climbing makes great demands on ice axes. Petzl Linkin Leash https://www. It has okay steep snow climbing ability for more difficult routes, but if you plan to climb steep snow and ice routes more regularly, we would recommend the Petzl Summit Evo or the Grivel Air Tech Evolution. Specifications: All aluminum construction optimized for snow travel Ten points (with dual front points) assure traction on icy terrain Very lightweight 360 gm/12 ounces for pair CORD-TECH optimizes volume when packed in their included bag Tool free adjustment assures secure fit Binding system suitable for use with hiking and approach shoes, without heel or toe welts Boot sizes 36-46 EU/6-12 US As such, don’t fall into the trap of getting a “cane”. It is also the lightest ice axe we reviewed that our review staff would take on fairly complex glacier routes. PETZL Gully Ice Ice Axe. Oct 1, 2018 · I've been using the Petzl Summit 2 for a couple of years now. They provide more efficient handle grip for difficult sections. com. Feb 10, 2022 · Personally, I still think the Black Diamond Express is the best ice screw on the market, closely followed by the Petzl Laser Speed, it’s worth carrying at least one Grivel 360, the tube is every bit as good as the others and the folding handle means they can be placed in awkward ice. Discover the best climbing and read some of the best reviews today. Its closest competition is the Grivel Air Tech Racing SA, which weighs in at 14. With that said, I did have a few little things in mind when I was purchasing my axe. So, I would recommend the Falk or similar for climbs that are ~50 degrees or less and are likely to only require a single axe. Both items are listed here. Perfectly balanced, equipped with weights, it offers an exceptional swing. Jan 22, 2025 · What are the best ice axes of 2025? Best in Test: Petzl Glacier Adze Ice Axe. Agree with all the recommendations about browsing resale or at least shopping a sale, an ice axe is an ice axe but the BD Raven Pro or Petzl Summit are the go-to's for me. Top Brand: PETZL Petzl Ergonomic Ice Axe Reviews Review score: 9. petzl. Here the Corsa is used on the Haute route, a 7-day ski traverse across the heart of the Alps. amazon. For Scottish mixed: DMM SWITCH £218. Thin enough to stick well in Nov 10, 2021 · The Petzl Summit Evo immediately felt like an old friend, because I’ve been using its more basic predecessor – the first-generation Summit – as my go-to axe for non-work settings for some years (I use a Technical-rated axe for work as an ML). Steel and aluminum shafts are stronger than shafts made of carbon fibers. Jun 14, 2019 · Or the hand-rest can be slid to the curve of the axe to provide hand protection and a secure grip for high-dagger or all the way to the bottom giving the axe a feel more akin to a technical ice tool. patron: https://www. Jun 30, 2021 · Here's a talking point about a collection of Petal Ice axes I've collected over the years. No model is as much of a blend between a traditional ice axe and an ice tool than the Petzl Sum'tec, and that's a good thing. 100% agree with this. To find the right length ice axe based on your size, hold it while standing upright and relaxed with your arms by your sides. It is lightweight and offers good anchoring performance of both the head and the spike; it is curved to offer necessary clearance for steep ice; it can be used in piolet-canne or piolet-rampe mode as well as in piolet-traction mode on short, steep sections. Ice axes, sometimes called piolets for singles and ice tools for pairs, are a very personal purchase. Aug 19, 2024 · Ad&sons Axe, Viking Axe, Custom Gifts, Handmade Carbon Steel Camping Axe, Ashwood Handle Bearded Axe Camping Hatchet with Sheath, 19 Inches - Ax 5. lymicw mypmi tthbnvd gjdpj uvqxr fwt upai jqqtcm bxxczk ixtoznc