Ice axe usage for skiing
Basic Techniques
Warning
- Carefully read the Instructions for Use referenced in this Tech Tip before reading the Tech Tip itself. You must have read and understood the Instructions for Use to understand this supplementary information.
- Performing these techniques requires specific training. Work with a professional to confirm your ability to perform these techniques safely and independently before attempting them unsupervised.
- We provide examples of techniques related to your activity. Other techniques not described here may also exist.
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
Advantages:
Accessibility in the event of emergency
Comfortable and reliable
Holding the ice axe and a pole
Disadvantages:
Risk of losing the ice axe
Ice axe effectiveness is weak
Ice axe on the pack
Disadvantage:
Inaccessible in the event of emergency
Advantage:
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.
