Ice climbing is a thrilling and challenging sport that requires the right equipment to ensure safety and success. One of the most crucial pieces of gear for ice climbers is the ice axe. The right ice axe will not only help you ascend steep slopes and vertical ice walls but also provide stability and balance on the slippery terrain.
When it comes to choosing the best ice axe for your needs, there are several factors to consider. The first is the type of climbing you will be doing – whether it’s alpine climbing, mountaineering, or ice climbing. The second is the type of terrain you will be encountering – steep ice, mixed terrain, or snow-covered slopes. The third is the size and weight of the axe, which can affect your ability to swing it with precision and control.
After evaluating several ice axes on the market, we have identified the top picks for the best ice axe of 2020. Our top picks are based on factors such as durability, performance, versatility, and ease of use. When selecting the best ice axe for your needs, it’s essential to consider these critical factors to ensure that you have a reliable and effective tool for your ice climbing adventures.
 | Grivel GZERO Ice Axe Read More | Check Price |
 | Best Value Petzl Glacier Ice AxeRead More | Check Price |
 | Best Overall Trango Raptor Ice ToolRead More | Check Price |
 | CAMP Corsa Alpine Ice Axe 45cm Read More | Check Price |
 | BLUE ICE Blackbird Ice Axe Read More | Check Price |
 | CAMP Neve Ice Axe - 73cm Read More | Check Price |
Best Ice Axes
We have researched and reviewed various ice axes to bring you the best options available in 2020. Whether you are a seasoned mountaineer or a beginner looking to explore the world of ice climbing, having the right ice axe is crucial for safety and performance. Our roundup includes a variety of ice axes that are durable, lightweight, and designed for different types of climbing. Read on to find the best ice axe for your needs.
Grivel GZERO Ice Axe
If you’re looking for a lightweight ice axe that provides maximum strength and minimal weight, the Grivel GZERO Ice Axe is a great option.
Pros
- The ergonomic design of the pick is classically neutral, making it comfortable to use for hours of climbing.
- The removable ergonomic blade cover allows for a firm grip on the axe without the risk of injury, and protects your hand from contact with cold metal in low temperatures and high altitudes.
- CE Certified B Rated; Carbon Steel Blade; Weight 66cm: 425 grams / 15 oz.
Cons
- The wrist loop diameter cannot be adjusted, causing it to slip off easily.
- The axe may feel a little flimsy to some users.
- The cover for the head may easily get lost.
The Grivel GZERO Ice Axe is a great tool for classical alpinism, providing added safety and comfort. Its lightweight design and neutral pick make it comfortable to use for hours of climbing. The removable ergonomic blade cover adds extra safety and protection, while also allowing for a firm grip on the axe.
One downside of the Grivel GZERO Ice Axe is that the wrist loop diameter cannot be adjusted, causing it to slip off easily. Some users may also find the axe to feel a little flimsy. The cover for the head may also easily get lost, so it’s important to keep track of it.
Overall, the Grivel GZERO Ice Axe is a quality product that performs well in all conditions. If you’re looking for a lightweight ice axe with added safety features, this is a great option to consider.
Petzl Glacier Ice Axe
If you’re looking for a lightweight and reliable ice axe for glacier travel and mountaineering, the Petzl Glacier Ice Axe might be just what you need.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to swing
- Proprietary steel for durable and secure anchoring
- Anodized aluminum shaft and machined handle for a reliable grip
Cons
- Not ideal for steep and technical climbs
- Some users found the spike to be too short
- A bit pricey compared to other ice axes on the market
The Petzl Glacier Ice Axe offers very good anchoring qualities in hard snow and ice, thanks to its high quality steel pick and stainless steel spike. The steel adze is designed for efficient cutting of steps, while the head and spike are equipped with holes for clipping a carabiner or attaching a sling.
The anodized aluminum shaft and machined handle provide a reliable grip, and the overall lightweight design makes it easy to swing and maneuver. However, it’s important to note that this ice axe is not ideal for steep and technical climbs, as it’s designed primarily for glacier travel and mountaineering.
Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight and reliable ice axe for glacier travel and mountaineering, the Petzl Glacier Ice Axe is definitely worth considering.
Trango Raptor Ice Tool
If you’re looking for a leashless ice and mixed tool, the Trango Raptor Ice Tool is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The grip is one-piece molded rubber for comfort, durability, and reduced fatigue.
- The pick penetrates the hardest ice with minimal force and cleans easily.
- Removable weights are included for added versatility.
Cons
- At 575g without pick weights, it’s a bit heavy compared to other ice tools.
- It only comes with an ice-specific pick, so it may not be the best choice for mixed climbing.
- The price point may be a bit high for some climbers.
The Trango Raptor Ice Tool swings beautifully and bites like a dream, making it the ultimate swing and bite tool. The grip is comfortable, durable, and reduces fatigue, which is important when you’re climbing for extended periods. The pick is razor-sharp, allowing it to penetrate the hardest ice with minimal force, and it cleans easily. Additionally, the removable weights included provide added versatility to the tool.
However, at 575g without pick weights, the Trango Raptor Ice Tool is a bit heavy compared to other ice tools. It only comes with an ice-specific pick, so it may not be the best choice for mixed climbing. Finally, the price point may be a bit high for some climbers.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality leashless ice tool, the Trango Raptor Ice Tool is definitely worth considering.
CAMP Corsa Alpine Ice Axe 45cm
If you’re looking for a lightweight ice axe for technical terrain, the CAMP Corsa Alpine Ice Axe 45cm is a great option.
Pros
- The steel head is perfect for glacier travel, alpinism, and ski mountaineering.
- The pick is tapered to 3 mm for better penetration on hard snow and ice.
- The nylon spike plug keeps snow out of the shaft.
Cons
- The small head slot requires the purchase of the Corsa leash (sold separately) for seamless integration.
- The handle material is nylon, which may not be as durable as other materials.
- The axe is only available in one size (45cm).
This ice axe is perfect for those looking for a lightweight option for technical terrain. The steel head is durable and versatile, making it suitable for various activities. The tapered pick allows for better penetration on hard snow and ice, making it easier to climb. The nylon spike plug is a great feature that keeps snow out of the shaft, preventing it from weighing down the axe.
Overall, the CAMP Corsa Alpine Ice Axe 45cm is a great option for those looking for a lightweight ice axe for technical terrain. However, potential buyers should keep in mind the limitations of the small head slot and the handle material.
BLUE ICE Blackbird Ice Axe
If you’re looking for a classic, all-purpose ice axe for general mountaineering and glacier travel, then the BLUE ICE Blackbird Ice Axe is a great option.
Pros
- The Blackbird is a versatile and durable ice tool that’s perfect for beginners and experienced mountaineers alike.
- The stainless steel head and aluminum shaft make this ice axe lightweight and easy to handle.
- The dual-textured grip provides a comfortable and secure hold, even when wearing gloves.
Cons
- The Blackbird may not be the best choice for more technical ice climbing.
- Some users have reported that the spike protector can come loose during use.
- The price point may be a bit high for some budget-conscious shoppers.
The BLUE ICE Blackbird Ice Axe is a great all-around ice tool that’s perfect for general mountaineering and glacier travel. The stainless steel head and aluminum shaft make this ice axe lightweight and easy to handle, while the dual-textured grip provides a comfortable and secure hold, even when wearing gloves.
One potential downside of the Blackbird is that it may not be the best choice for more technical ice climbing. However, for general mountaineering and glacier travel, it’s hard to beat the versatility and durability of this ice tool.
Some users have reported that the spike protector can come loose during use, which could be a safety concern. However, this seems to be a relatively rare issue.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile ice axe for general mountaineering and glacier travel, the BLUE ICE Blackbird Ice Axe is definitely worth considering. Just be aware that the price point may be a bit high for some budget-conscious shoppers.
CAMP Neve Ice Axe – 73cm
If you’re looking for a reliable ice axe for mountaineering and glacier travel, the CAMP Neve Ice Axe may be a good option for you.
Pros
- The forged chromoly steel head has an ergonomic design for a secure grip and good comfort.
- The pick is engineered for solid anchoring in hard snow and a high level of control during self-arrest.
- The adze has an ergonomic profile and is engineered for chopping snow and ice.
Cons
- The price may not be very appealing for some users.
- Some users find it fragile for the snow.
- The spike may not be long enough for some users.
The CAMP Neve Ice Axe is a classic and reliable option for mountaineering and glacier travel. Its updated design optimizes performance and comfort, with a forged chromoly steel pick and adze that offer a secure grip and good comfort. The ergonomic adze is shaped and sized for optimal chopping performance, and there are carabiner holes on the head and spike for leashes and tethers. The steel spike plunges cleanly, and the holes in the spike and head can be used with carabiners for leashes and tethers.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable ice axe for mountaineering and glacier travel, the CAMP Neve Ice Axe is definitely worth considering. Its ergonomic design and solid anchoring make it a great option for those looking for a high level of control during self-arrest.
For serious mountaineering or winter adventures, you may find these articles useful:
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- The Best Beginner Snowshoes for Adults
- Best Winter Survival Coats: Top Options for Extreme Cold
- The Best Tactical Axes 2022
- How to Walk with Trekking Poles: A Beginner’s Guide
- Winter Survival Gear List: Essential Items to Keep You Warm and Safe
- Best Snow Shovels in 2022
- Best Tactical Survival Hatchets 2023
Buying Guide
When looking for the best ice axe, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get a product that meets your needs. In this section, we will discuss the key features that you should look at when choosing an ice axe.
Length
The length of the ice axe is an essential factor to consider. The length of the ice axe should be proportional to your height. A shorter ice axe is easier to handle, while a longer one is better for self-arresting. Ideally, the length of the ice axe should be such that when you hold it by the head, the spike should be touching the ground.
Head
The head of the ice axe is another crucial factor to consider. There are two types of heads: the adze and the hammer. The adze is used for chopping steps, while the hammer is used for pounding pitons. Choose the one that suits your needs.
Shaft
The shaft of the ice axe should be sturdy and durable. It should be made of high-quality materials, such as aluminum or carbon fiber. The shaft should also have a good grip to prevent slipping.
Pick
The pick of the ice axe is the part that penetrates the ice. It should be sharp and durable. The pick should also be curved to provide better grip and control.
Leash
The leash is an essential safety feature that prevents the ice axe from slipping out of your hand. It should be strong and durable and should be attached securely to the ice axe.
In summary, when choosing the best ice axe, consider the length, head, shaft, pick, and leash. Ensure that the ice axe you choose meets your needs and is of high quality.