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Ice / back country snowboarding gear? 8-Jul-2016 At 8:02:34 AM Sabu

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Regarding tools, see if you can pick up second hand somewhere as they are freaking expensive. Note that ice tools have a different set of specs than mountaineering axes so think about your intended use before buying. You can get some tools that will cover both general mountaineering and ice though such as bd venoms. You can also mod them with grip rests and reverse curve picks for better leashless climbing.

Otherwise, try have a play with different ice tool styles and see what you prefer. I much prefer leashless so have just picked up a pair of bd vipers (old model). Generally tools with a nice curve and a grip rest to stop you punching the ice will make for a better experience.

For crampons, any of the 12 point options from petzl, bd or grivel do the trick. Grivel g12s are very popular and petzl vasaks are an equivalent and have served me well. They'll get you up low angle to moderately steep ice just fine. Anything more steep and you might want to consider a more aggressive crampon. The most important thing with crampons is the binding and fit so have your boots first and buy what suits. Hope that helps!