12 best ice axe leashes
Ice axe leashes are essential pieces of equipment used in mountaineering and ice climbing. They serve the purpose of securing the ice axe to the climber's wrist, preventing the axe from being dropped while in use. Ice axe leashes are critical for safety in these activities because losing control of your ice axe in steep or icy terrain can have serious consequences.
Here are some key points about ice axe leashes:
Purpose: Ice axe leashes are designed to keep the ice axe attached to the climber's hand, ensuring that it doesn't get lost during use. This is especially important in situations where self-arrest (stopping a fall using the ice axe) is necessary.
Types: There are various types of ice axe leashes, including wrist loops, tethers, and adjustable systems. Each type has its own advantages and is chosen based on the climber's preferences and the specific requirements of the climb.
Wrist Loops: Wrist loops are the simplest type of ice axe leash. They consist of a loop of webbing or cord that is attached to the ice axe's shaft on one end and worn around the climber's wrist on the other. They are easy to use and allow for a secure grip on the axe.
Tethers: Tether-style leashes are adjustable in length and can be attached to the climber's harness. They provide more freedom of movement and can be released quickly if necessary. Tethers are often preferred by experienced climbers.
Adjustable Systems: Some ice axe leashes feature adjustable systems that allow climbers to switch between a leash and a leashless mode. This versatility can be advantageous in different climbing scenarios.
Safety: Proper use of ice axe leashes is crucial for safety.Climbers should ensure that the leash is securely attached to the ice axe and their wrist or harness. They should also practice using the leash to self-arrest in case of a fall.
Leashless Climbing: Some advanced climbers choose to go leashless, meaning they don't use traditional ice axe leashes. Instead, they rely on their grip and wrist strength to control the axe. Leashless climbing requires a high level of skill and is not recommended for beginners.
In conclusion, ice axe leashes are fundamental tools in mountaineering and ice climbing, helping climbers maintain control of their ice axes and ensuring their safety in challenging environments. The choice of leash type depends on personal preferences and the specific demands of the climb. Proper training and practice are essential when using ice axe leashes to ensure safe and efficient climbing.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best ice axe leashes on the market
PETZL Linkin Leash
PETZL
Product description
Keep your self-arrest tool secure with the Petzl Linkin Leash. Compatible with any ice axe, the Linkin Leash can be adjusted between 19. 5 and 29. 5 inches. If needed, the leash can be quickly removed from your ice tool simply by untying the knot.
- INTENDED USE: The LINKIN leash helps avoid the loss of your ice axe.
- COMPATIBILITY: This removable leash is adaptable to all types of ice axes equipped with a hole for the passage of a carabiner or sling.
- EASY TO USE: The LINKIN leash can be very quickly removed by simply untying the knot.
- ADJUSTABLE: The LINKIN has an adjustment range of 50 to 75 cm.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: This removable leash weighs only 25 grams.
Black Diamond Slider Leash
Black Diamond
Product description
The Black Diamond Slider Leash features an ergonomic variwidth wrist loop that cinches for ultimate comfort and security while climbing with your piolet on classic mountaineering routes. A length adjustment buckle lets you dial in the ideal length.
- Updated variwidth wrist-loop. Slider for fit adjustment. Weight: 34 g / 1.19 oz.
- Strength: 2 kN / 450 lbf. Imported. .
Black Diamond Equipment - Spinner Leash
Black Diamond
Product description
For hard, technical ice or alpine climbing where you want to climb leashless but cant risk dropping a tool, the Black Diamond Spinner Leash provides a simple and secure solution. This lightweight elastic tether system stretches for maximum reach and the locking carabiners keep your tools securely connected to your harness. A built-in swivel ensures tangle-free climbing.
- Proprietary elastic webbing stretches for maximum reach and absorbs less water than nylon
- Steel mini-clip attaches to the tools spike or head
- Built-in swivel ensures tangle-free use
- Rated to 2 kN
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do you get the orange one without locking biners or the green one with locking biners |
| Answer: | Green with lockers |
Black Diamond Raven w/Grip
Great Lakes MP
Product description
Built from lightweight, aircraft aluminum alloy for high strength, the Raven with Grip is a traditional mountaineer's piolet for classic alpine climbs.
- Investment-cast, One-piece stainless steel head with a large hole for a carabiner
- Pick's Curve and teeth engineered for secure self-arresting
- Durable, aircraft-grade aluminum shaft
- Comfortable, dual-density molded grip
- Cen-b Certified
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this axe com with the lanyard |
| Answer: | I purchased mine last summer and yes it did come with a lanyard. |
| Question: | would it work for unstable soil climbing |
| Answer: | For unstable ground, like scree, mud, gravel, etc., you should really use trekking poles. Get a pair of them. If you use this in soil then you're just going to chew up the end. |
| Question: | Im 6 feet tall. What size would i need |
| Answer: | You might need longer than 21". U can use it as the pole as well. I regret to get 21" even though I'm 5'2" tall person. |
| Question: | What is the ideal length of a raven ice axe for primary use fo self-arrest |
| Answer: | A very general guide is : Your Height: under 5'8" Axe Length: 50-60cm Your Height: 5'8"-6'0" Axe Length: 60-70cm Your height: over 6'0" Axe Length: 60-75cm |
Black Diamond Lock-Down Leash
BLACK DIAMOND
Product description
Lightweight leash for enhanced performance and simple operation. Ideal for ice tools..
- Slip-knot configuration TIGHTENS when weighted, release by hooking and pulling loop with hammer or adze
- Padded wrist strap for comfort and even weight distribution
- Compatible with any technical ice tool
- Rated to 2 kn
Grivel Long Ice Axe Leash
Grivel
Product description
Keep track of your most important hardware with the Grivel Long Ice Axe Leash. A rubber tip protector covers the pick for safety and functionality. Use with any length ice axe.
- Material: nylon
- Recommended Use: ice climbing
- Manufacturer Warranty: lifetime
Grivel G1+ SA Ice Axe w/Leash
Grivel
Product description
The Grivel G1+ SA Ice Axe w/Leash is a very light axe perfect for classic alpine routes that provides all day comfort.
- Hot forged, one piece head that provides maximum strength and minimal weigh
- Classical neutral pick with ergonomic design
- A natural rubber grip
CAMP Touring Ice Axe Leash
CAMP
Product description
A simple sliding leash designed to fit the shaft dimensions on all CAMP mountaineering ice axes, as well as many other brands (the shaft opening is 25 x 35 mm). A heavy rubber stopper secures the slider at the bottom.
- A simple sliding leash designed to fit the shaft dimensions on all CAMP mountaineering ice axes, as well as many other brands
- The shaft opening is 25 x 35 mm
- A heavy rubber stopper secures the slider at the bottom
CAMP Alpina Leash
CAMP
Product description
A technical leash designed to fit nearly any ice axe. The wrist loop quickly adjusts in size, a useful feature on climbs where you may need gloves in the morning and bare hands in the afternoon. A small loop holds your hand close to the shaft for quick retrieval but slides up when using the tool as a cane.
- A technical leash designed to fit nearly any ice axe.
- The wrist loop quickly adjusts in size, a useful feature on climbs where you may need gloves in the morning and bare hands in the afternoon.
- A small loop holds your hand close to the shaft for quick retrieval but slides up when using the tool as a cane.
GRIVEL Nepal Self-Arrest Axe with Leash 66
Grivel
Product description
Everything about the Grivel Nepal S. A. Ice Axe has been designed to make self-arresting easier, quicker, and more secure. Not a bad thing considering that providing a solid self-arrest is the one thing that your axe absolutely must do.
- Material: [pick] steel, [shaft] aluminum
- Length: 58cm, 66cm, 74cm
- Leash Included: yes
- Claimed Weight: 1lb 0.9oz
- Recommended Use: ice climbing, mountaineering
User questions & answers
| Question: | Made in Italy |
| Answer: | Yes |
| Question: | Does it come in a pair |
| Answer: | Hellllos. Only 1 axe. |
| Question: | Does it come in a pair |
| Answer: | no this is a general mountaineering axe not for vertical/ice wall climbing |
| Question: | Can this thing save me? if i slipped and have to hang with it. how many lb would it hold? i'm |
| Answer: | If used properly this can aid in self arrest, It is not designed for vertical ice climbing it is a general mountaineering axe |
Petzl - GLACIER, Lightweight Performance Ice Axe for Glacier Travel
Petzl
Product description
Compact and lightweight, the GLACIER LITERIDE ice axe is the perfect choice for ski mountaineering, skiing steep chutes and fast-and-light climbing. It also has the benefit of great anchoring efficiency thanks to its very high-quality steel pick, guaranteeing both confident anchoring and great durability.
- HIGH QUALITY: The GLACIER LITERIDE's high-quality steel pick is identical to technical ice axe picks. The pick is designed to make cutting steps, anchoring, and penetrating hard snow easy. The anodized aluminum handle resists rusting.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Weighing in at only 320 grams, the GLACIER LITERIDE won't weigh you down on long treks and climbs.
- COMPACT: The GLACIER LITERIDE is only 50 cm in length, allowing for easy transportation when attached to your pack.
- EASY TO USE: This ice axe features a handle cut into the shaft that provides you better grip when technical ice climbing. Additionally, the upper part of the pick offers excellent grip and serves as a comfortable support surface.
- EXTRAS: Both the head and spike of the GLACIER LITERIDE are equipped with holes for clipping a carabiner or attaching a sling.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it comes with a leash? I don't see the picture |
| Answer: | Yes it does. In my opinion the leash is good enough quality I felt that I didn't need to upgrade it; I'd trust it with my life. PS- It's a nylon strap. |
| Question: | where are Petzl ice axes built? (i.e. country of origin |
| Answer: | All of the Petzl Ice Axes are currently made in France. Some of the accessories are made in other countries such as Romania and China. |
| Question: | does it come in a pair |
| Answer: | Hi, Unfortunately, this does not come as a pair |
| Question: | Does this come with a LINKIN leash |
| Answer: | No. You would need to purchase a lease separately. However, the Petzl Glacier Literide itself is fantastic. Best in class. |
CAMP Neve Ice Axe
CAMP
Product description
A sleek and elegant mountaineering axe with a forged steel pick designed to deliver solid placements in hard snow and provide quick and aggressive self arrests.
- General Mountaineering
- Forged chromoly steel pick and adze
- Carabiner holes at head and spike
- Symmetric steel spike plunges smoothly
- Equipped with sliding leash
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the ice axe weight for each length |
| Answer: | Hi there, Unfortunately, I was unable to find the specific weight on each size of this item. However, the general weight is 15 ounces. So one can only imagine that the different sizes would only makes grams of a difference. I hope this helps. |
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