A stable avalanche shovel with a large blade is part of every freerider's basic equipment. With the Pocket Spike, Ortovox offers an extension that quickly turns the shovel handle into a lightweight ice axe. ISPO Award winner 2014 in the Basic Avalanche Gear category.
The Pro-Alu-III shovel is very robust, has a relatively large shovel blade (29 x 22 cm), a telescopic style (length: 84/44 cm) and weighs just 790 grams in this combination. The shovel has been completely redesigned and is now more stable. The metal-reinforced T-handle can be repositioned for left and right-handed use. Together with the rubberized grip zone of the handle, it offers a secure grip when shovelling, clearing or hoeing.
The real highlight of the Pro Alu III shovel, however, is the option of using it with the pocket spike
Extension can be converted into an ice axe in just a few simple steps. The pick and spike come in a small pouch and, at 95 grams, hardly weigh a thing. They are made of 7075 T6 aluminum, a very break-resistant aluminum alloy. The spike is holistic and would actually offer a secure hold if it didn't clump up so quickly in spring snow. However, the spike works perfectly in less wet snow. The pickaxe is certainly not intended for the next ice climbing session, but in steeper terrain it provides additional grip and therefore a safety advantage. If you are used to a "normal" ice axe, you may lack confidence in this lightweight ice axe at first, as the construction feels a little "wobbly". After a few uses, however, this will certainly subside and you can fully trust the ice axe. After all, the pocket spike is not intended to be a fully-fledged ice axe (it does not comply with the DIN standard for ice axes and ice tools), but should provide additional safety in tricky situations or steep, icy terrain. I also use this set for this purpose, always have the pick and spike with me in the safety compartment and can therefore fall back on it if necessary on the last steep meters to the summit
Features:
- 90° spatial function
- Sharp, tilt-resistant cutting edge
- Rescue sledge function
- Rubberized grip zone
- Grooved handle cross-section
- Non-slip tread grooves
- Quick-release fastener
- Telescopic handle
- Metal-reinforced T-handle Pro with reversible function for left/right-handers
- Weight: 885 grams
- Length: 84 (44) cm
- Blade: 29 x 22 x 5 cm
- Price approx. 110,-- EUR
