Best Mountaineering & Ice Climbing Ice Axes of 2026
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Mountaineering and ice climbing ice axes are essential tools for any serious climber. These axes are designed to help climbers navigate steep and icy terrain, providing the necessary support and stability needed to ascend to new heights. Made from durable materials like aluminum and carbon fiber, these axes are built to withstand the harsh conditions of high-altitude climbing. With a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles available, there is an ice axe to suit every climber's needs. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, investing in a quality ice axe is a must for any serious mountaineer.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Mountaineering & Ice Climbing Ice Axes
TRANGO Raptor Ice Tool
The TRANGO Raptor Ice Tool is a top-of-the-line leashless ice and mixed tool designed to swing beautifully and bite like a dream. The one-piece molded rubber grip provides comfort, durability, and reduced fatigue, while the razor-sharp pick easily penetrates the hardest ice with minimal force. The versatile design includes removable weights for added flexibility, and it comes with ice-specific pick and pick covers included. Weighing in at 575g without the pick weights and 640g with weights, this ice tool is ideal for mountaineering and ice climbing activities.
Petzl - Quark Technical Ice Climbing Tool
The Petzl - Quark Technical Ice Climbing Tool is a versatile ice axe that is suitable for both technical mountaineering and ice climbing. Its efficient placement on any type of ice and modular construction make it a reliable tool for various climbing situations.
CAMP Corsa Ice Axe - 60cm
The CAMP Corsa Ice Axe is a hyperlight ice axe designed for glacier travel and ski mountaineering. It features a nylon spike plug to keep snow out of the shaft and a small head slot for seamless integration with the Corsa leash (sold separately). The machined grip provides good handling, making it easy to use.
TRANGO Altum Lightweight Ice Ax
The TRANGO Altum Ice Ax offers a lightweight aluminum shaft that makes long alpine trips and ski mountaineering easier by reducing weight without sacrificing strength. You’ll appreciate the textured shaft and rubber grip, which help you hold on securely during tricky climbs and self-arrests on steep snow. The steel pick is built tough to cut through hard ice, giving you confidence when swinging or stopping a fall. Plus, the design includes features like a clip point for easy anchor setup and a shaft that can be firmly planted for belaying or glacier travel, making it a versatile tool for your mountain adventures.
Bobillow 70cm Outdoor Ice Axe
The Bobillow Ice Axe is a lightweight yet durable tool designed to enhance your outdoor winter activities. Made from high-strength aluminum alloy, it is easy for you to handle, making it perfect for those challenging climbs. The curved pick head with teeth ensures effective ice and snow scraping, while the contoured handle offers comfort and a secure grip, allowing for self-arrest when needed. Its versatile design also includes a toothed handle end, which aids in detection during your adventures. This ice axe is an essential companion for hiking, climbing, and skill training in snowy conditions.
Grivel Nepal Sa Piolet C/Ll Ice Axe
The Grivel Nepal Ice Axe is designed for serious ice climbing and mountaineering. It features a sturdy steel pick that helps you secure your grip on icy surfaces, giving you confidence when climbing. The aluminum shaft keeps the tool lightweight, making it easier to carry and handle during long climbs. You can choose from three lengths—58 cm, 66 cm, or 74 cm—so you can find the perfect size for your height and climbing style. Plus, it comes with a leash to keep the axe safely attached to your wrist, preventing accidental drops while you focus on your ascent.
CAMP Neve Ice Axe
The CAMP Neve Ice Axe is designed to improve your mountaineering and ice climbing experience. Its updated design enhances both performance and comfort, making it easier for you to handle challenging climbs. The forged chromoly steel pick and adze provide a strong, ergonomic grip, so you can maintain control and reduce hand fatigue. The adze is carefully shaped and sized to help you chop ice efficiently, saving you time and effort. Additionally, the axe includes carabiner holes on the head and spike, allowing you to attach leashes or tethers securely for added safety during your climbs.
Petzl Sum'Tec Modular Ice Axe
The Petzl Sum'Tec Ice Axe is designed for technical mountaineering, featuring a 55 cm handle that offers excellent reach and control for climbing steep ice and mixed terrain. Its scoop-shaped blade helps you efficiently cut into ice, providing secure placements for safety and confidence. Weighing only 470 grams, this lightweight axe reduces fatigue during long climbs, making it easier to carry without sacrificing strength. The blade and handle types are optimized for technical use, ensuring durability and reliability when you need it most. The Petzl Sum'Tec Ice Axe is a reliable tool that combines convenience and performance for serious climbers.
PETZL Ride Ultra-Light Compact Ice Axe
The PETZL Ride Ultra-Light Compact Ice Axe is a lightweight and compact tool designed for ski touring and freeriding. Made of durable materials such as aluminum 7075 and steel, this unisex ice axe is suitable for both men and women. With a length of 45cm, it is ideal for those who need a reliable tool for mountaineering and ice climbing. This ice axe is perfect for those who desire a high-quality, lightweight tool that won't weigh them down during their outdoor adventures.
Stubai Hornet Ice Tool
The Stubai Hornet Ice Tool is designed for serious climbers who need a reliable ice axe. Weighing 635 grams, it offers a lightweight option that won’t tire you out during long climbs. Its 43 cm length provides a good balance of reach and control, making it easier for you to handle on different terrains. Plus, it’s CE Certified T, ensuring it meets safety standards so you can trust its performance when you’re on challenging ice or mixed routes. This tool is excellent for mountaineering, ice climbing, and alpine adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do you need two ice axes for mountaineering?
Typically, for mountaineering, one ice axe is sufficient. However, in very steep or vertical terrain, the route may require the use of two axes - usually a hybrid axe and an ice tool, or two ice tools for extremely vertical terrain.
2. Can you ice climb with an ice axe?
Yes, you can ice climb with an ice axe. Technical ice axes, including those with curved shafts, are strong enough to be used for steep or vertical ice climbing and belaying on such terrain. For more specialized vertical ice climbing, dedicated ice tools are used.
3. What is the ice axe for mountaineering?
The ice axe is an essential tool for mountaineering. It serves multiple purposes, including maintaining balance and self-arresting to stop a fall. It is considered a symbol of mountaineering and is crucial for safety during mountaineering adventures.
4. How do you size an ice axe for mountaineering?
To size an ice axe for mountaineering, a general rule is that the spike of the axe should reach your ankle when you hold the head of the axe alongside your body. However, personal preference and the type of slopes you expect to encounter may also influence the length of the ice axe.
5. How long should an ice axe be for walking?
For walking, ice axes are typically 50 to 70cm long. The length of the ice axe can vary based on your height, with taller individuals often using longer axes. However, it's important to find a length that is manageable and not too unwieldy, especially for self-arresting.
6. Do I need an ice axe for hiking?
When hiking on icy and snowy trails, it is recommended to have an ice axe for safety. Alongside crampons, an ice axe helps provide traction and can be used to arrest a fall on icy terrain, ensuring a safer hiking experience.
7. How many ice axes do I need?
In general, one ice axe is sufficient for most mountaineering activities. However, if you plan to tackle very steep or vertical terrain, it may be beneficial to have two ice axes to assist with climbing.
During our mountaineering & ice climbing ice axis research, we found 24 mountaineering & ice climbing ice axis products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,997 customer reviews through our big data system to write the mountaineering & ice climbing ice axes list. We found that most customers choose mountaineering & ice climbing ice axes with an average price of $132.97.
The mountaineering & ice climbing ice axes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of mountaineering & ice climbing ice axes, including TRANGO, PETZL, CAMP, Bobillow, Grivel. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1 consumers with an average rating of 5.0.
Michael Daley is a founder of a climbing club. As a climbing expert, he's well-versed in all topics related to travel, including climbing accessories. He loves everything related to climbing and often shares his experience online.