Hey there! Looking for the perfect ice axe to add to your outdoor gear collection? Well, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’re going to review and compare three awesome ice axes, specifically the X-Light Ice Axe with an Adze, the Trango Altum Ice Axe in Green, and the Salewa North-X Hammer Ice Axe in Night/Black. So, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of ice axes!
Ice axes have been around for a long time, tracing back to the early days of mountaineering and exploration. These trusty tools have aided climbers in tackling icy terrains and steep slopes, providing stability, balance, and safety. Owning an ice axe is not only a symbol of a true adventurer but also essential for anyone venturing into icy environments.
Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these ice axes to see what makes them stand out from the crowd. Starting with the X-Light Ice Axe with an Adze, this lightweight tool is equipped with a durable adze that comes in handy for tasks like chopping steps or digging snow anchors. Next up is the Trango Altum Ice Axe in a vibrant green color, perfect for those who like their gear to make a statement. With its curved shaft and aggressive pick, this axe is designed for technical ice climbing. Last but not least, we have the Salewa North-X Hammer Ice Axe, a versatile option with a hammer on one side of the head for pounding in pitons or stakes, and an ice pick on the other for reliable self-arrest.
So, get ready to explore the features, pros, and cons of each of these ice axes, and find the one that suits your needs and style the best. Let’s get started!
Lightweight Ice Axe – Adze
The X-Light Ice Axe – Adze is a versatile and high-performance tool that is specifically designed for alpine ice climbing and use as a cane. Its primary use is to provide a secure grip and stability while maneuvering on alpine ice and other challenging terrains.
We absolutely love the X-Light Ice Axe – Adze for its exceptional performance and innovative features. It offers a perfect balance of strength, durability, and comfort, making it an ideal choice for climbers of all skill levels.
The X-Light Ice Axe – Adze is meticulously designed to provide climbers with the best possible performance on alpine ice. Its single-curve shaft is optimized with an angled pick that ensures solid performance and stability even on the most treacherous ice surfaces. Additionally, the adze head configuration is perfect for shaping anchors and clearing snow, offering versatility in different alpine climbing scenarios.
The product features carabiner holes at the head and spike, allowing for traditional leashes or lanyards to be easily attached. This enhances safety and prevents accidental drops of the ice axe during intense climbing sessions.
The three-part handle design is another standout feature of the X-Light Ice Axe – Adze. It can be assembled in various configurations to cater to the specific needs and terrain challenges of each climb. The upper pommel can be repositioned without the need for tools, providing ultimate customization options for climbers.
In terms of comfort, the X-Light Ice Axe – Adze excels with its carefully shaped Threadze components, guaranteeing a comfortable grip that minimizes hand fatigue. Furthermore, the absence of teeth near the shaft reduces discomfort and wear and tear on gloves, ensuring prolonged use without compromising comfort.
When it comes to overall quality, the X-Light Ice Axe – Adze surpasses expectations. Crafted with precision and utilizing top-notch materials, this ice axe is built to withstand the demanding conditions of alpine climbing. It offers exceptional durability and reliability, providing climbers with a tool they can trust even in the harshest environments.
The attention to detail in the design and construction of the X-Light Ice Axe – Adze translates into a product of superior quality. Its reliable performance and long-lasting durability make it a favorite among professional climbers and mountaineers.
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Exceptional performance on alpine ice
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Innovative three-part handle design for customization
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Comfortable grip with Threadze components
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Durable construction for long-lasting use
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Additional investment required for a separate hammer configuration (hammer sold separately)
The X-Light Ice Axe – Adze is an outstanding tool that delivers outstanding performance, versatility, and durability. Its design and features cater to the specific needs of alpine climbers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable climbing experience. With its exceptional quality and functionality, this ice axe is a must-have for anyone venturing into alpine terrains.
Green Trango Altum Ice Axe, 55 cm
The Trango Altum Ice Axe, Green, 55 cm is a versatile tool designed for mountaineering and alpine climbing expeditions. Its lightweight design, durable performance, and versatile attachment options make it an excellent choice for weight-conscious climbers seeking reliable gear for various mountain terrains.
We love the Trango Altum Ice Axe because it combines lightweight construction with exceptional durability and performance. It strikes a perfect balance between weight and versatility, making it ideal for a wide range of mountain terrains and climbing styles. Whether you’re planning a quick ascent or a more technical route, the Altum ice axe will be a reliable companion.
The Trango Altum Ice Axe is designed to provide climbers with a lightweight and durable tool for mountaineering and alpine climbing. Its key features include:
The Trango Altum Ice Axe features an aluminum shaft that minimizes weight, making it the ideal choice for weight-conscious mountain expeditions. The lightweight design allows for quick and agile movements, reducing fatigue during long climbs. With three different length options available (45 cm, 55 cm, and 65 cm), you can choose the size that suits your needs while keeping weight in check.
One of the standout features of the Trango Altum Ice Axe is its steel head. This material offers exceptional durability and performance, allowing the axe to excel when swinging into hard snow or during self-arrest maneuvers. You can rely on the Altum ice axe to provide the necessary stability and strength when navigating challenging mountain terrains.
The clip-able head of the Altum ice axe provides versatility in securing it to your gear or harness. This feature ensures easy access and convenience during your mountain adventures. Whether you need to quickly access the axe during a difficult section or securely store it when not in use, the versatile attachment options make it a practical and user-friendly tool.
The Trango Altum Ice Axe is available in three different length options, each with its own weight specifications.
- 45 cm: Weighing only 300g, it’s a lightweight option for quick ascents and alpine climbing.
- 55 cm: At 380g, this size strikes a balance between weight and versatility for various mountain terrains.
- 65 cm: With a weight of 410g, this longer axe offers extended reach and stability for more technical routes or glacier travel.
These length options allow climbers to choose the size that best suits their individual needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a shorter option for quick and agile movements or a longer one for increased reach and stability, the Trango Altum Ice Axe has you covered.
The Trango Altum Ice Axe is a high-quality product that delivers on its promises. The combination of lightweight design, durable performance, and versatile attachment options makes it a reliable tool for mountaineering and alpine climbing expeditions. The steel head ensures long-lasting durability, while the aluminum shaft minimizes weight without compromising on strength.
The attention to detail in the design and construction of the Trango Altum Ice Axe is evident, and its overall quality is excellent. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or just starting your mountaineering journey, this ice axe will meet your expectations and provide the necessary support and performance on the mountains.
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Lightweight design for quick and agile movements
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Durable steel head for exceptional performance
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Versatile attachment options for easy access and convenience
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Three length options to choose from for different terrains and climbing styles
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High-quality construction for long-lasting durability
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Limited color options (currently only available in green)
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May not be suitable for heavy duty or technical ice climbing
When considering the Trango Altum Ice Axe, it’s important to bear in mind that it may not be the best choice for heavy duty or technical ice climbing. However, for general mountaineering and alpine climbing, it offers a perfect balance between weight, durability, and versatility.
The Trango Altum Ice Axe, Green, 55 cm is a reliable and high-quality tool that will enhance your mountain expeditions. Its lightweight design, durable performance, and versatile attachment options make it a fantastic choice for climbers of all skill levels. Whether you’re planning a quick ascent, navigating technical routes, or exploring glaciers, the Trango Altum Ice Axe will be your trusted companion. Invest in this ice axe and embark on your mountain adventures with confidence.
Salewa North-X Hammer Ice Axe, Night/Black, Universal Size
The Salewa North-X Hammer Ice Axe is a versatile tool designed for technical mountaineering, climbing in steep mixed terrain, ice climbing, and glacier crossings. Whether you’re tackling snowy slopes or scaling icy peaks, this ice axe is built to handle the rigors of extreme conditions.
We are big fans of the Salewa North-X Hammer Ice Axe for several reasons. Firstly, its standout feature is the special sliding, easy-adjust hand rest. As you climb on steep firn, the hand rest slides upwards, promoting energy-saving movement and a quicker ascent. Additionally, when you’re on steep rock or ice, the hand rest locks when loaded, providing maximum support.
Another reason to love this ice axe is the integrated elasticated webbing anchor leash. With a breaking strength of 5 kN, this leash ensures fast and secure shaft placement, allowing for self-belaying. This feature adds an extra layer of safety during your climbing adventures.
Furthermore, the hot-forged steel pick and 20° offset 7075 aluminum shaft guarantee a balanced swing action and precise placement on all types of rock and ice. This ice axe is built to withstand the toughest conditions, ensuring durability and reliability.
Lastly, the insulated synthetic grip of the North-X Hammer provides effective protection from the cold. This is particularly beneficial on longer routes, where prolonged exposure to low temperatures can be uncomfortable or even dangerous.
The Salewa North-X Hammer Ice Axe is specifically designed for technical mountaineering and ice climbing. Its primary purpose is to provide climbers with a reliable tool for navigating icy and rocky terrain, ensuring secure and precise placement.
One of the key features of this ice axe is the sliding, easy-adjust hand rest. This innovative design promotes energy-saving movement, allowing climbers to ascend more rapidly. Additionally, the hand rest locks when loaded, offering enhanced support on steep rock or ice.
The integrated elasticated webbing anchor leash is another standout feature. With its high breaking strength, this leash provides climbers with a fast and secure method of shaft placement. It also enables self-belaying, increasing safety during climbs.
The hot-forged steel pick and 20° offset 7075 aluminum shaft ensure a balanced swing action and precise placement on various types of rock and ice. These materials are carefully chosen for their strength and durability, making the North-X Hammer Ice Axe a reliable and long-lasting tool.
Lastly, the insulated synthetic grip provides effective protection against the cold. This feature is especially beneficial for climbers embarking on longer routes, as it helps to prevent discomfort and cold-related issues.
When it comes to overall quality, the Salewa North-X Hammer Ice Axe does not disappoint. The combination of its innovative design and high-quality materials ensures excellent performance and durability.
The sliding, easy-adjust hand rest is a real game-changer, allowing for efficient and energy-saving movement. The lock feature provides added stability and support during climbs on both steep firn and ice. These features, combined with the hot-forged steel pick and 7075 aluminum shaft, result in a tool that offers a balanced swing action and precise placement on all types of rock and ice.
Furthermore, the integrated elasticated webbing anchor leash adds an extra layer of safety and convenience. The high breaking strength of the leash ensures secure shaft placement while enabling self-belaying.
The Salewa North-X Hammer Ice Axe is a high-quality product that can be relied upon in the most demanding mountaineering and ice climbing scenarios.
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Special sliding, easy-adjust hand rest promotes energy-saving movement and a rapid ascent
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Hand rest locks when loaded, providing maximum support on steep rock or ice
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Elasticated webbing anchor leash enables fast and secure shaft placement and self-belaying
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Hot-forged steel pick and 7075 aluminum shaft ensure a balanced swing action and precise placement
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Insulated synthetic grip protects against the cold, enhancing comfort on longer routes
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The replaceable steel tip at the bottom may not provide as good a hold on softer snow as a traditional spike
The Salewa North-X Hammer Ice Axe is an outstanding tool for mountaineering, climbing in icy terrain, and tackling glaciers. Its innovative design features and high-quality materials make it a reliable and durable choice for climbers seeking performance in extreme conditions. With its sliding, easy-adjust hand rest, elasticated webbing anchor leash, and insulated synthetic grip, this ice axe offers both efficiency and comfort. While the replaceable steel tip may not be as effective on softer snow, it provides better traction on rock and ice. Choose the Salewa North-X Hammer Ice Axe for your next climbing adventure, and experience the difference it can make in your ascent.
Comparison of X-Light Ice Axe – Adze, Trango Altum Ice Axe, Green, 55 cm, Salewa Unisex’s North-X Hammer Ice Axe, Night/Black, UNI
X-Light Ice Axe – Adze
- Head configurations: adze
- Single-curve shaft optimized for alpine ice and use as a cane
- Carabiner holes at the head and spike
- 3-part handle with adjustable upper pommel
- Comfortable grip with no teeth near the shaft for increased comfort
- Lightweight and durable design
Trango Altum Ice Axe, Green, 55 cm
- Lightweight aluminum shaft
- Steel head for durability and performance
- Clip-able head for versatile attachment to gear or harness
- Multiple length options: 45 cm (300g), 55 cm (380g), 65 cm (410g)
- Suitable for quick ascents, alpine climbing, and various mountain terrains
Salewa Unisex’s North-X Hammer Ice Axe, Night/Black, UNI
- Versatile and ergonomic ice tool
- Pick and adze for technical mountaineering, steep mixed terrain, ice climbing, and glacier crossings
- Sliding, easy-adjust hand rest for energy-saving movement and rapid ascent
- Elasticated webbing anchor leash for shaft-placement self-belaying
- Hot-forged steel pick and 7075 aluminum shaft for balanced swing action and precise placement
- Insulated synthetic grip for effective protection against the cold
- Replaceable steel tip for better hold on rock and ice
Comparison Table
| Features/Specifications | X-Light Ice Axe – Adze | Trango Altum Ice Axe, Green, 55 cm | Salewa Unisex’s North-X Hammer Ice Axe, Night/Black, UNI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Head configurations | Adze | – | Pick and adze |
| Shaft material | – | Aluminum | 7075 aluminum |
| Suitable terrains | Alpine ice and use as a cane | Various mountain terrains | Technical mountaineering, steep mixed terrain, ice climbing, and glacier crossings |
| Carabiner holes | Yes | – | – |
| Handle | 3-part handle with adjustable upper pommel | – | Sliding, easy-adjust hand rest |
| Weight (55 cm option) | – | 380g | – |
| Grip | Comfortable grip | – | Insulated synthetic grip |
| Cold protection | – | – | Effective protection against the cold |
| Additional features | – | – | Elasticated webbing anchor leash, replaceable steel tip |
Conclusion:
After reviewing the X-Light Ice Axe – Adze, Trango Altum Ice Axe, Green, and Salewa Unisex’s North-X Hammer Ice Axe, it is clear that each product offers unique features and benefits. However, they also have their drawbacks that you need to consider before making a purchase decision.
X-Light Ice Axe – Adze:
The X-Light Ice Axe – Adze is a lightweight option that is perfect for mountaineers and climbers. Its ergonomic design and durable construction make it easy to handle and reliable in challenging conditions. However, some users may find the lack of versatility in the tool limiting, as it is primarily designed for ice climbing and mountaineering.
Trango Altum Ice Axe, Green, 55 cm:
The Trango Altum Ice Axe offers excellent value for money with its affordable price point. It provides a good balance between durability and performance, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. However, some users may find that it lacks the advanced features and technical performance of more specialized ice axes.
Salewa Unisex’s North-X Hammer Ice Axe, Night/Black, UNI:
The Salewa Unisex’s North-X Hammer Ice Axe is designed for the most extreme conditions, making it an excellent choice for experienced climbers and professionals. Its high-performance materials and innovative design make it a versatile tool for various ice climbing challenges. However, the higher price point and advanced features may not be necessary for beginners or casual climbers.
Recommendation:
If you are a beginner or a casual climber, the Trango Altum Ice Axe would be an ideal choice. It offers a good balance between affordability and performance, making it suitable for a wide range of climbers.
If you are an experienced climber or a professional looking for advanced features and superior performance, the Salewa Unisex’s North-X Hammer Ice Axe is highly recommended. It may come at a higher price, but it provides the durability and versatility needed for challenging ice climbing adventures.
Ultimately, the best ice axe for you will depend on your experience level, budget, and specific climbing needs. By considering the features, drawbacks, and recommendations mentioned above, you can make an informed decision and choose the right ice axe for your next adventure. Happy climbing!
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