I think the social inclination is towards the unobtainable ideal, discarding all else. Truly though, this means perfect tools fit for purpose, and nothing serving an imperfect ancillary duty. And a porter. My perfect solution is an exquisite compromise, wholly personal and subjective, often merely “appropriate”, rather than “high” technology. A whippet in hand beats a stowed ice axe. Another great video. 👍🏼
Wanted to highlight that I was taught, in a self arrest, to initially bring my second hand up to the ice axe head and then rapidly slide it down the shaft to control the tip of the ice axe shaft. This reduces the risk of injury, and stops the tip impaling into your body. This and similar techniques are important to learn, ideally in an in-person training course.
