What is Drytooling?
Understanding ice climbing, mixed climbing, and drytooling—three disciplines united by ice tools
Ice climbing encompasses several disciplines that share a common thread: the use of ice axes and crampons to ascend vertical terrain. Whether you're climbing frozen waterfalls, scaling rock in winter conditions, or training year-round in a gym, these sports offer incredible physical and mental challenges.
Ice Climbing
Ice climbing is the art of ascending frozen waterfalls, ice-covered rock faces, and glacial formations using specialized ice axes and crampons. It's a seasonal pursuit, typically practiced during winter months when conditions create climbable ice.
Mixed Climbing
Mixed climbing combines ice climbing and rock climbing techniques on routes that feature both ice and rock. Climbers use ice tools to hook, torque, and pull on rock features while also climbing sections of ice—often in the same pitch.
Drytooling
Drytooling is the practice of climbing rock or artificial holds using ice tools—without any ice. Originally developed as training for mixed climbing, it has evolved into its own discipline and is the format used in international competitions.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you want to try drytooling at a gym, experience ice climbing at a festival, or train for competition, we can help you find your path.