Ice tools

Technical ice tools: Essential for winter climbing

Technical ice tools are essential for climbers tackling steep ice routes, frozen waterfalls and mixed terrain that combines rock and ice. These specialized tools are designed to provide the precision, balance and durability needed to ascend challenging vertical and overhanging routes where traditional mountaineering axes might fall short. Unlike classic ice axes, technical ice tools have a more aggressive design. Their curved shafts allow for easier clearance over bulging ice and rock features, while their ergonomic grips provide better control and reduced fatigue during steep climbing. Many models come with adjustable or modular grips, letting climbers customize the tool for specific hand sizes or climbing styles. You can shop for several different ice axes at MEC online or in-store from trusted brands like Petzl, Camp, Grivel and more.

Technical ice tool features

The head of a technical ice tool has interchangeable picks, which are the sharp, tooth-like extensions that bite into the ice. Different picks are designed for various uses: thinner picks are great for penetrating hard, brittle ice, while thicker or reinforced picks are better suited for mixed climbing on rock and ice. Many modern tools allow for easy replacement of picks, ensuring climbers can adapt to changing conditions or replace worn components.

Leashes or leashless? This is a key question when choosing technical ice tools. Leashes attach your tools to your wrists, providing security against accidental drops. However, leashless designs have become increasingly popular due to their freedom of movement and versatility, allowing climbers to switch hands and make dynamic moves without restriction. For leashless setups, many climbers add tethers for peace of mind, which attach the tools to their harness without limiting movement. Technical ice tools are not just about design; proper technique is essential to maximize their effectiveness. Precise swings, controlled placements, and good body positioning allow the tools to anchor securely into ice or cracks in rock. Over-gripping can quickly lead to fatigue, so mastering an efficient grip is key for long routes.

You can read up on ice climbing basics and how to get started on our website for more information.