Review

Hiking in winter conditions it’s important to take an ice axe with you on those steep, icy slopes. So, why the Grivel Helix Ice Axe?

Why the Grivel Helix?

I started really getting into my winter hillwalking last year and wanted an axe that would be perfect for a beginner and that would be easy to use. The Grivel Helix is long enough for walking with on the slop side, while also coming with a leash to minimise the risk of losing it. It also comes with a silicone grip on the head making it easier to carry when really cold. All of these features make it the perfect ice axe for beginners. Anything lighter or with a curved shaft would be more specialised for climbing or hiking in winter with lighter loads.

How well does it work?

This axe works very well for cutting steps with its sharp adze and it’s good for walking with the spike and included spike cap. The weight is just right for cutting steps as well and the shaft being longer makes it good for practising self-arrest.

What’s there not to like?

The weight might deter some long-distance hikers so they may prefer a small axe like the Camp Corsa which I used on the Pacific Crest Trail and was a real necessity in the San Jacinto Mountains.

Value for money

At £65 it’s not cheap, but it’s certainly not the most expensive. It’s not a bad price point for entry and with the added features it’s a good ice axe for the price.

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