Combining the advantages of a standard ice axe with a technical ice tool, the Petzl Cosmi’tec Ice Axe (€130) has a slightly bent shaft and reverse-curve pick for better penetration in ice. This axe is ideal for slightly technical alpine routes on which a half-day of walking may be followed by a couple short pitches of moderate ice. Weighing in at only 16.5oz, its more lightweight design makes it excellent for ski mountaineering as well. The large adze (hoe-like blade) is excellent for chopping steps and the shaft also has special coating for improved grip. The axe is available in several lengths to fit different sized climbers.
Petzl products are available from Exposure, Castlebar; 53 Degrees North, Carrickmines and Blanchardstown; The Great Outdoors, Dublin 2; Snow+Rock, Dundrum; and River Deep Mountain High, Galway and Limerick.
