Petzl Summit – Classic Ice Axe for Alpine Tours
The Petzl Summit is a lightweight and versatile ice axe for classic alpine tours, glacier travel and mountaineering. Its ergonomically shaped shaft provides the necessary clearance on steeper terrain while remaining efficient when planted in snow.
The balanced head supports reliable placements without making the mountaineering axe unnecessarily heavy. The Summit can be used in piolet canne and piolet rampe positions as well as in piolet traction mode on short, steep sections.
Construction and Performance
The shaft is made from high-quality anodised 7075 aluminium. Its curved upper section provides additional clearance while climbing. The straighter lower section penetrates snow efficiently and supports comfortable use in walking-stick mode.
The hot-forged hardened steel pick has a toothed tip that tapers to just 3 mm. It penetrates hard snow and ice precisely, while the wider middle section improves anchoring in softer snow. Teeth on the upper edge provide additional grip when the axe is used in piolet rampe position.
The durable steel adze provides a comfortable support surface for the hand. Its shaped edges make cutting steps easier. The angled design helps guide the ice axe correctly into the snow when it is used in walking-stick mode.
A durable spike made from hardened stainless steel provides efficient penetration in hard snow. Holes in the head and spike allow a carabiner or leash to be attached. The Petzl Summit is compatible with the separately available LINKIN leash. Protective caps for the pick and spike are included.
Length Selection
The best length depends on the user’s height, the terrain and the intended application:
-
52 cm: compact option for smaller users and steeper or more technical terrain.
-
59 cm: versatile all-round length for classic alpine tours and varied mountaineering objectives.
-
66 cm: provides greater reach and support for taller users and moderate snow slopes.
Our Assessment
The Petzl Summit is a well-balanced choice for classic mountaineering. It combines comparatively low weight with a full steel pick, a durable adze and a functional curved shaft.
Compared with the Summit Evo, the Summit has a simpler and lighter construction. It does not have the Evo model’s hydroformed grip area or additional TPV grip coating. In return, it offers lower weight and an excellent balance of function, durability and value.
It is highly suitable for classic alpine tours and short, steeper sections. A technical ice tool is the more appropriate choice for sustained steep waterfall ice or demanding technical ice climbing.
Benefits at a Glance
-
Lightweight construction for classic mountaineering
-
Curved shaft for improved clearance on steeper terrain
-
Straighter lower shaft for efficient penetration in snow
-
Hot-forged steel pick with a thin 3 mm tip
-
Reliable placement in hard snow and ice
-
Wider pick section for improved anchoring in softer snow
-
Durable steel adze with a comfortable support surface
-
Robust hardened stainless-steel spike
-
Attachment holes for a carabiner or leash
-
Compatible with the Petzl LINKIN leash
-
Protective caps for the pick and spike included
-
Available in three lengths
