From Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
An
ice axe
is a
tool
mountaineers
use for routes that involve
snow
or
ice
. It is used to probe the stability of the snow or ice in
crevasses
, and for
ice climbing
. There are techniques to lighten a fall onto a suitable surface of snow or ice. it can be used to securize a party on an ice climbing tour. In 1933,
crampons
were introduced. These are attached to the
shoes
of the mountaineer and provide more stability. They are also used in icy situations. Before their widespread use, ice axes were used to make steps for the mountaineers to use.