Black Diamond Ice Axes

Black Diamond Ice Axes, reliable allies for all your expeditions

To climb Mont Blanc, venture into a challenging ski touring ascent, or get started with ice climbing, Black Diamond Ice Axes are here to help you reach your peaks. An essential tool in the mountaineering gear of any mountaineer, the ice axe is useful in many situations. Just like crampons, the ice axe is a must-have in your backpack. 

The different types of Black Diamond Ice Axes

Each route, each ascent presents different characteristics and needs that must be adapted to. Your ice axe, just like your equipment, must adapt and have the right features. Thus, the ice axe for ice climbing, such as the Reactor Ice Tool, must have a special grip for good handling, a curved shaft for greater clearance, and an open-angled blade to facilitate ascent. A Black Diamond mountaineering ice axe like the Venom - Adze is more suited for mountaineering, ski mountaineering, or glacier hikes. 

How to choose your Black Diamond Ice Axe

For every outing, there is an ice axe. To choose it correctly, a few main characteristics must be considered. 

Ice axe head

The head of the ice axe, consisting of a blade and a pick, is important. The blade, made of aluminium or steel, will impact weight and strength. Its shape is also crucial. In ice climbing, for example, a thin blade is recommended. The pick of the ice axe, located at the back of the head, is useful in glacier climbing. Replacing this pick with a hammer, as is the case with the Venom - Hammer ice axe, can be useful in mixed climbing or high-altitude mountaineering.

Shaft and spike of the ice axe

The shaft of the ice axe is now made of aluminium, carbon, or both. Aluminium is less expensive and fairly lightweight, while carbon is much stiffer. A long ice axe shaft is preferable for glacier hiking, as it provides additional support. Similarly, a curved shaft is practical for climbing as it offers greater clearance. When an ice axe has a spike at its end, under the grip, it is intended for technical mountaineering or glacier hiking, but very rarely for climbing, where it would be dangerous instead. 

Discover the entire range of Black Diamond Ice Axes at Hardloop

At Hardloop, we are committed every day to offering nature enthusiasts the best products for their mountain outings. With experience at the heart of the mountains, the Black Diamond brand is special to us. Globally recognized for the quality of its jackets, mountain gear, and mountaineering ice axes, Black Diamond will accompany you on all your adventures, whether on high peaks or on flat ground. Don't hesitate, choose your Black Diamond products at Hardloop and off you go for beautiful adventures at altitude! Have a question? Our HardGuides will be delighted to advise you on the best Black Diamond ice axe based on your practice.