Collection: Activities - Ice Climbing

Choosing the Right Gear for Ice Climbing Days

Ice climbing gear combines technical components with clothing designed for cold temperatures and varying physical demands. While climbing, you’re actively moving; at belay stations, your heat requirements can increase significantly. At the same time, your boots, crampons, and ice axes must be suited to the planned route. Therefore, start by considering the nature of the climb, your experience, and the conditions you’ll need to assess on the day of the climb.

Technical Gear as an Integrated System

An ice axe designed for general high-altitude mountaineering does not automatically serve the same purpose as one intended for steep sections. The attachment system for crampons must also be compatible with your mountaineering boots. Include rope, harness, helmet, and appropriate belay devices in your planning. Selecting and using them requires proper training. On Swiss icefalls, temperature and weather change conditions; therefore, a complete gear list is no substitute for a current assessment of the route.

• Route: What technical difficulty and approach are planned?
• Compatibility: Are the boots and crampons compatible according to the manufacturer?
• Clothing: Have you factored in physical activity and longer breaks?
• Handling: Can you operate the intended equipment while wearing gloves?

From Tour Plan to Targeted Selection

Compare ice axes and crampons for ice climbing based on your requirements. Check your existing gear before adding individual pieces. This will help you identify where adjustments are needed and what questions you should clarify. Explore ice climbing gear and put together a setup that matches your skill level, the planned terrain, and the manufacturer’s specifications.