Ice axe usage for skiing
Warnings
- Read the technical notice before viewing the following techniques.
- It is important to fully understand the information provided in the technical notice before using this complementary information
- Mastering these techniques requires training.
- Consult a professional before attempting to perform these techniques on your own.
Climbing a snow slope
Climbing a steep section or hard/icy snow slope
On the descent, keep your ice axe within reach:
Ice axe under a pack shoulder strap
Accessibility in case of emergency
Comfortable and reliable
Holding the ice axe and a pole
Risk of losing the ice axe
Ice axe effectiveness is weak
Ice axe on the pack
Inaccessible in case of emergency
Comfortable when the slope presents no difficulty
Descending a difficult steep section by skidding or climbing
Snowboard descent
WARNING: in these situations the ice axe is used as an additional balance point. It would not be effective for stopping a fall in progress.
