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Shell jacket length for ice climbing

Original Post
Ryan Mac · · Durango, CO · Joined Apr 2019 · Points: 1

Planning to get into ice this winter. Also planning to buy a dead bird shell for all-around use, including for ice and winter alpine stuff. Tossing up between a longer model and a shorter one.

Does having something a bit longer make a noticeable difference when climbing ice? Do shorter jackets ride up enough when you're reaching above that you get cold air/spindrift up the gap above your pants? Asking the dumb important questions here.

Steve McGee · · Sandpoint, ID · Joined Aug 2021 · Points: 795

Jacket length isn't what causes it to rise up. It's the way the shoulders are cut, especially under the arms. Also, the cut in the back by the lats. Having room there means you can raise your arms and the hem doesn't budge.

Victor Machtel · · Netherlands · Joined Feb 2020 · Points: 0

What Steve said. Go to a store, take a harness with you and try on as many jackets as you can. If a dead bird jacket works for you - great. If it's another make, go for that one. High end jackets are so similar in terms of materials and features that fit is the most important deciding factor. 

Edit: also try the helmet hood! Some are definitely better than others. 

Ryan Mac · · Durango, CO · Joined Apr 2019 · Points: 1
Steve McGee wrote:

Jacket length isn't what causes it to rise up. It's the way the shoulders are cut, especially under the arms. Also, the cut in the back by the lats. Having room there means you can raise your arms and the hem doesn't budge.

True, but a longer jacket is more forgiving, as it hangs lower to begin with.

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

Ice Climbing
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