The Air Tech EVO Hammer Ice Axe by Grivel answers the guide's demand for a light, full-strength mountaineering tool that can pound pitons or pickets and still be comfortable in hand for climbing snow. The Air Tech Evo Hammer features a hot-forged ChroMoly steel head with T-rated strength and a 4mm-thick pick to easily penetrate hard ice. The hammer is pinned to the main body of the head. The slight movement absorbs vibration when hammering and prevents the pick from breaking – a problem with fixed hammers in the late-80s when they were popular in Europe. This also allows a longer hammer, which is easier to grab and to aim with. The T-rated (400 kg) shaft is slightly curved, giving 1.5cm more clearance than a straight shaft. Air Tech Evo is available with the Long Leash or the Slider (a sliding pommel that supports the fingers when using the axe in piolet traction positions but does not compromise easy penetration when driving the shaft into firm snow).

The Grivel Air Tech Evo Hammer makes an ideal companion to your ice axe on mountaineering routes that aren't quite steep enough to require two technical ice tools. Though it weighs only 18oz, the Air Tech Evo Hammer combines a T-rated shaft and ultra-strong hot-forged pick. The slight bend in the top of the shaft provides extra clearance for clearing bulges and makes it easier to self arrest. Use the Grivel Air Tech Evo Hammer with a leash, or get the slider attachment for extra support if you don't like long leashes in the mountains.

Bottom Line:Not steep enough for ice tools? Bring the Grivel Air Tech Evo Hammer to accompany your ice axe.