Ice climbing explained – gear, safety, and the right conditions
RevolutionRace
30 March 2026
3min
Updated: 30 March 2026
Ice climbing doesn’t forgive mistakes.
The temperature drops, your heart rate spikes as you move up the frozen wall — and moments later you’re standing still in the cold, belaying.
In this environment, clothing can’t just feel good in theory. It has to work in real conditions.
Together with the Swedish Climbing Federation, we asked Eva Rimnäs — one of Sweden’s most experienced ice climbing instructors — to test the Ultra series in real winter conditions. When gear is exposed to cold, moisture, movement, and constant wear, you quickly find out what actually holds up.
Ice climbing places unique demands — and the ice itself is the biggest challenge.
“It can change from one day to the next. You need to understand the temperature history, how the sun hits the wall, what the weather has been like, and ideally test the ice on site. You want to see and feel what it’s like yourself,” Eva explains.
Unlike rock climbing, ice is a living material. It doesn’t just affect safety — it also changes how your body responds. The constant shift between intense climbing and standing still while belaying means your body moves quickly from high exertion to cooling down.
“That’s where clothing really gets tested. You generate a lot of heat while climbing, but when you stop moving you get cold fast if your gear doesn’t breathe and move moisture away.”
Ice climbing also demands mobility in the shoulders and hips. Ice axes are placed overhead, your legs work actively with crampons, and gear like harnesses and ropes constantly rub against the fabric. Wear and tear are part of the reality.
Durable and flexible clothing for ice climbing
Over a cold winter weekend, Eva tested several pieces from the Ultra series.
“I climbed in the Ultra Trekk Touring Pants and the Ultra Trekk Touring Jacket, and they had great mobility. They fit well and followed my body naturally while climbing.”
The Ultra Hybrid Vest quickly became a favorite.
“I wore it all weekend. A great piece — I really like this type of vest.”
The vest added warmth around the core without restricting arm movement — important when activity levels shift quickly between climbing and belaying.
When it comes to choosing clothing for ice climbing, Eva is clear:
“If the ice is wet, shell layers can work well. But otherwise they can feel a bit too sealed. Ice climbing is physical. I prefer softshell — it breathes better and is easier to move in.”
Staying dry is key. Materials that combine mobility with moderate weather protection often work best in cold, dry winter conditions.
“Overall I really liked the gear and can definitely recommend it.”
The right gear is part of the safety system
Ice climbing is a niche discipline within climbing, but the demands are high.
The Swedish Climbing Federation represents around 85 climbing clubs and more than 14,500 members, working with education, standards, and safety across Swedish climbing.
For Eva, the right equipment is an essential part of the safety system.
“You’re carrying sharp tools. The risk of accidents is higher, and helmets are a given for us. And your clothing needs to work — otherwise it affects your concentration.”
Eva’s best tips — how to dress for ice climbing
Use a layered system
Prioritize mobility in shoulders and hips
Choose breathable pieces for high exertion
Avoid getting damp — moisture is what makes you cold
Choose durable materials
Bright colors improve visibility
Your clothing should move with you so you can focus on climbing
Ice climbing – what it is and what you need
What is ice climbing?
Ice climbing is a form of outdoor climbing where you ascend frozen waterfalls or ice formations using ice axes and crampons. It requires constant assessment of conditions, since ice is a living material that changes with temperature and weather.
Essential gear
Ice axes
Crampons
Harness and rope
Helmet
Protection such as ice screws
Technical clothing designed for cold and movement
Important to remember
Ice quality changes with temperature and weather
Always check the temperature history
Always wear a helmet
Take a course with a certified instructor