Product test ice climbing: AustriAlpin K.ICE.R

Are you looking for the true emperor of ice tools? Then you've found it with the AUSTRIALPIN K.ICE.R of the same name! Read here what makes the AUSTRIALPIN K.ICE.R so special and how our author, who tested the ice tool extensively on a number of icefalls and mixed routes, found it.

Aswith well-known products from AUSTRIALPIN, this ice tool has been completely thought through - every gram has its function. The steep ice tool weighs 620 grams and is available in two colors (green and blue) - so casual color combinations are possible. The K.ICE.R is supplied as standard with the ice pick fitted, but this can be changed in a few simple steps using the separately available mixed or hollow pick. There is also the option of attaching a hammer head.

The hoe can not only be changed, but its angle can also be adjusted! This function in particular makes the K.ICE.R a reliable all-round weapon. A total of 5 different inclinations can be selected. From very aggressive to the geometry of a classic ice axe - anything is possible here!

In addition to the pick, the handle can also be customized. Its size can be adjusted in just a few seconds, making it ideal for both small and large hands. The end of the handle offers an unusually large grip rest. A plate with a spike on the underside prevents slipping when the K.ICE.R is used as a support ice axe and is also useful when attaching leashes.

Practical test

How does the K.ICE.R ice axe perform in practice? First of all: It is in no way inferior to other manufacturers' steep ice machines! Our author has tested it extensively:

I was able to test the K.ICE.R on rather flatter falls such as the Easy Afternoon in the Sellrain Valley, as well as on the steep pillars of Das Problem in the Tyrolean Oberland (just before Nauders) and was thrilled with the device's momentum and geometry! Even on flat terrain, the device was still comfortable to hit without having to sacrifice safety on steep hooks. The unusually large grip rest in particular pays off on steep slopes. Thanks to the plate shape, the edge of the hand rests on it, taking even more weight off the fingers. What doesn't seem like much at first glance is all the more convincing on the steep meters!

The only drawback for me is the bare upper grip rest. In comparison to other manufacturers, there is no rubber coating at all here and the grip is bare aluminum.

This is quite slippery and very cold in the long run, especially when ice climbing. However, the problem of cold fingers can be solved quickly and easily with a little tape. It's up to the man/woman .

As on ice, the K.ICE.R was also convincing on steep mixed and drytool routes! The K.ICE.R turns into a true mixed/drytool weapon with just a few handholds. I am completely convinced by the angle adjustment function of the pick. The competition could learn a thing or two! Not a separate device for every type of winter climbing, but an all-in-one device. Chapeau to AUSTRIALPIN at this point!

The large plate at the end of the hold really comes into its own on overhanging mixed and drytool routes. Rarely have I found figure fours (advanced mixed/drytool technique for mastering long moves in steep terrain) so easy! The hand literally sticks to the grip and the fingers need less strength!

Conclusion

All in all, the K.ICE.R from AUSTRIALPIN is a true all-round weapon that can handle everything from north faces and steep icefalls to difficult mixed/drytool routes. In times like these, where local production is more important than ever in my opinion, the K.ICE.R scores with its complete production in Austria! #Made in Austria

Advantages Large variety of hoes Adjustable angle of the pick Adjustable handle Large grip rest Casual color selection options Made in Austria Disadvantages Bare upper grip rest Grip rest becomes very slippery when covered with snow