Catalog 2015

2015 | EN
WHO WE ARE
We are just like you: passionate about climbing, skiing, and simply spending
time in the mountains. Born in the heart of Chamonix Mont-Blanc, Blue Ice is
the product of our obsession.
We are our own best customers because we go out and use, test, and abuse
our gear every day. This is why Blue Ice has such high standards when it comes
to materials, manufacturing methods, and product testing. The result? Innovative, high performance equipment that is functional, light, and durable. At
Blue Ice we are also our own toughest critics. After every adventure, we come
home with ideas about how to make our gear better. This is the essence of
what we do and we love every minute of it.
OUR BOTTOM LINE
At Blue Ice, we believe in people, not investors. The company grew out of our
passion for the mountains, not for staggering profits. We have no intention
of expanding too fast. Since our bottom line is not driven by stockholders’
demands, we are able to operate in a focused, efficient way that is fueled
by our passion for mountain culture and adventure. Our bottom line puts
as much emphasis on social and environmental responsibility as it does on
financial considerations. For us, it’s not just about creating a better product;
it’s about manufacturing it in a better way. In doing so we are not only
innovating gear that is the best in the industry, we are also redefining the way
business is done.
We believe that the best businesses are close-knit and community-oriented.
Blue Ice is a small business and our customers are like family. This is why your
satisfaction with our products is the most critical aspect of our business plan.
We take great pride in doing things this way.
cover photo
Jonathan Crison and Rémi Sfilio, Central Boktoh,
Nepal Kangchenjunga Area
© Hélias Millerioux
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
Blue Ice is committed to creating innovative, high performance equipment
that embraces minimalist design and reflects our commitment to the
environment. We want you to forget about your gear so you can focus on the
beauty of the mountain experience.
Korra Pesce and Tomas Mueller, Mont Blanc Summit
3
OUR COMMITMENT TO THE ENVIRONMENT
Our passion for the mountains also comes with the responsibility to reduce our
impact on the environment, and preserve and restore the wild places we love.
Blue Ice is committed to manufacturing our products in a way that is
socially responsible and environmentally conscientious. Our manufacturing
processes are fine-tuned to reduce waste, prevent unnecessary pollution, and
promote sustainability.
We are fully aware that all manufacturing has an impact, so we put a great deal
of attention into creating products that are meant to last. Our commitment to
durability is essential, since the only products that don’t pollute are the ones
that are never made. For this reason, we also back our equipment with an
unlimited warranty and offer a repair service for damaged items.
To further express our commitment to the environment, we are proud
members of 1% For The Planet, which means that we donate 1% of our annual
sales to organizations committed to environmental causes.
DOING OUR PART
Blue Ice was born out of our love for the mountains, which have fueled our
imaginations ever since childhood. For us, climbing is not just a matter of
physical accomplishments to impress our peers or to test our limits. We climb
because we love the experience: the views, the silence, the wind, the smells of
wildlife and forests. These elements are all part of a world in which we seek to
immerse ourselves rather than observe from afar.
But beautiful scenery is not enough for us. We want to be part of our
environment, and we seek out that feeling of uncertainty and unknown that
makes our adventures unique. We feel that climbing takes us back to our roots,
and helps us escape from our over-connected, safe, and predictable world.
Climbing allows us to reconnect with our survival instincts in a beautiful, yet
potentially hostile environment, where outcomes are uncertain.
Unfortunately, the magical alpine world that reminds us of our childhood
dreams is quickly disappearing, swallowed up by reckless development,
shortsighted ideas about mass tourism, and the willingness to sell
prepackaged ascents that are consumed like fast food. The quest for
deep mountain experiences has evolved into selling adrenaline highs in a
deceptively safe environment, with guaranteed success whenever possible.
At Blue Ice, it is our mission to promote a climbing style which ensures that
the purest mountain experiences will be preserved for future generations.
4
Cooper Varney, Todo Cambia, Pared del Tiempo, Chile © Elise Maillot
EXPEDITIONS
Bluebird Ice Axe
***
***
Bluebird Evo Ice Axe
***
***
**
***
ROCK
CLIMBING
ICE & MIXED
CLIMBING
SKI TOURING
& FREERIDE
HIKING &
TREKKING
HARDWARE
SYNOPTIC TABLE
ALPINE
CLIMBING
***
*
**
HARNESS
Choucas Harness
***
PACKS
White Tiger 25L Pack
**
**
*
Warthog 26L Pack
***
***
***
**
Warthog 38L Pack
***
**
***
*
Yeti 30L Pack
***
*
**
***
***
Yeti 45L Pack
***
**
**
***
***
Yeti 60L Pack
**
***
Dragonly 18L Pack
*
***
***
***
***
***
Octopus Pack
***
Mono Pack
***
Double Mono Pack
***
Koala Rope Bag
***
***
*
5
Arête de Rochefort, Mont Blanc Massif © Marco Tamponi
6
ergonomic
head shape
large
eyelet
anti-corrosion
surface treatment
HARDWARE
BLUEBIRD ICE AXE
A CLASSIC ICE AXE THAT’S LIGHTWEIGHT, VERSATILE, AND BEAUTIFUL
The Bluebird ice axe is a classic lightweight tool with a technical edge.
The tool’s head and spike are individually hot forged to maximize
strength, and feature a special surface treatment to prevent rust.
The ergonomic head offers a comfortable grip, while the improved
pick design maximizes technical performance. The angled spike
is optimized for downhill travel. Both the head and spike feature a
large eyelet that can easily accommodate a carabiner. The aircraftgrade anodized aluminum shaft is sandblasted for improved grip.
We’ve designed this axe to offer the perfect balance of performance,
durability, and esthetics. The Bluebird ice axe is a trusty companion
for all of your classic mountaineering endeavors.
ideal uses Classic alpine routes, ski mountaineering, glacier travel,
expeditions
length 49 | 54 | 60 | 67 | 75 cm
style IA01
forged in Switzerland | assembled in France
hot forged head
and spike
aircraft grade anodized,
sandblasted aluminum shaft
length
49 cm
54 cm
60 cm
67 cm
75 cm
weight
430 g
450 g
480 g
510 g
540 g
angled
spike
7
BLUEBIRD EVO ICE AXE
A LIGHTWEIGHT CLASSIC ICE AXE DESIGNED FOR STEEP SNOW
SLOPES AND ICY COULOIRS
The Bluebird Evo ice axe is a classic tool designed with performance
in mind. It is optimized for very steep snow slopes and icy couloirs
where moving light and fast is essential. The tool’s head and spike
are hot forged to maximize strength. They feature a special surface
treatment to prevent rust, and are finished by hand. The curved shaft
increases clearance when climbing over bergschrunds, and improves
the grip of the pick. The ergonomic head offers a comfortable hold,
while the improved pick design maximizes penetration and grip on
hard ice. The angled spike is optimized for downhill travel. Both the
head and spike feature a large eyelet that can easily accommodate a
carabiner. The aircraft-grade anodized aluminum shaft is sandblasted
for improved grip. The Bluebird Evo ice axe is the ultimate tool for
long and technical alpine routes that require a lightweight tool with
a powerful bite on technical snow slopes or vertical ice.
ideal uses Classic alpine routes, couloirs, north faces, expeditions
length 49 | 54 | 60 cm
style IA02
forged in Switzerland, assembled in France
8
Elisabeth Revol, Tian Shan Massif, Kirghizistan © Violaine Ragot
HARDWARE
ergonomic
head shape
aircraft grade anodized,
sandblasted aluminum
shaft
curved
shaft
angled
spike
large
eyelet
anti-corrosion
surface treatment
hot forged
chromoly steel
head and spike
length
49 cm
54 cm
60 cm
weight
430 g
450 g
480 g
9
UNIVERSAL PITON
WHETHER YOU’RE ALPINE OR AID CLIMBING, DON’T LEAVE HOME
WITHOUT A COUPLE OF THESE VERSATILE, LIGHTWEIGHT PITONS
Alpine and aid climbers alike will appreciate this versatile chromoly
steel piton, which fits into even the trickiest cracks. Hot forged
in Switzerland, it is durable enough to withstand multiple uses.
The Universal design maximizes hold, and the large head can
accommodate two carabiners. Keep a couple of these pitons stowed
at the bottom of your pack for when the going gets tough!
ideal uses Rock, mixed, and aid climbing
weight 70 g
length 75 mm | thickness 6 mm
style PT01
forged in Switzerland
10
Tomas Mueller, Vierge d’Argentière, Mont Blanc Massif © Bogumila Wisniewska
HARDWARE
carbon
steel
progression
piton
45° angle between
the blade and head
11
STORY
12
Amar tu roca
Amar tu roca, tu glaciar, tu llanto eterno,
amar la vida que en ti aflora a cada instante,
ser paso a paso parte de tus faldas,
entregarse a la tormenta,
dar rienda suelta a la vida.
Mirarte desde el valle,
contemplar tu desnudes,
amarte palmo a palmo,
aliento entrecortado,
mientras que metro a metro
el horizonte crece,
el vacío se agranda,
la vida se hace intensa.
Dejar desde lo alto de tu cumbre,
que la lenta mirada se haga ave,
desandando distancias,
guardando recuerdos,
migajas del tiempo en la memoria.
Estar en ti de todos modos,
entregarte mis sueños y mi carne,
sin esperar de ti más que el camino,
el momento disfrutado,
el duro momento en ti aprendido,
el abrazo de la cuerda,
los amigos allí en la otra punta,
contenidos, conteniendo.
Amarte y en ti amar la vida,
aprender el secreto de la magia,
en un copo de nieve al sublimarse,
saber que allí en el sotavento,
juegan duendes y vientos por igual,
a poblar de arcoíris las cornisas.
Librarme a tu ritmo y a tus leyes,
cavilar en tus sendas los problemas,
contemplarme en tus lagunas,
aprenderme en esos, tus espejos.
Dante Alegria
To love your rock
To love your rock, your glacier, your eternal cry, to love life within you,
and be part of your slopes, to give in to the storm and let life be.
To look at you from afar, to gaze at your nakedness, to love evenly,
breathlessly, while the horizon widens, and the void grows, life
intensifies. From the peak my view becomes a bird’s eye view,
retracing steps that shorten distances, cherishing memories, the
crumbs of time.
To be within you no matter what, to give you my dreams, my flesh,
expecting nothing in return but the path and mere joyous moment,
the harsh learning experiences shared with you, the embrace of the
rope, the friends held at the other side, holding on.
To love you and to love live within you, to discover the magic that
comes with the surrender of a snowflake.
To know that there where the wind blows is where the breeze and
the elves play and bring about rainbows to your peaks. I free myself
in accordance to your law, I ponder problems on your paths, I
contemplate my reflection on your lakes, I learn about me through
your mirrors.
translated by Alejandra Kempff
Mer de Glace, Mont Blanc Massif © Luca Rolli
13
CHOUCAS HARNESS
THE LIGHTEST HARNESS YOU CAN PUT ON WITHOUT TAKING OFF
YOUR SKIS!
Made entirely of Dyneema®, the Choucas weighs a mere 170 g
and is extremely compact. Thanks to custom-made variable-width
webbing, it is extremely comfortable even for more technical routes.
The glove-friendly buckle allows you to loosen the waist belt without
undoing it, so you can easily remove layers while staying safe. Built
for the toughest alpinists, this is the ultimate harness for classic
routes, expeditions, and glacier travel with skis or crampons. The
innovative ice screw keepers hold two screws in place so they won’t
tear your pants.
ideal uses Mountaineering, ski touring, expeditions
weight 170 g (size M)
sizes S, M, L, XL
style HR02
made in France
The Choucas is a bird commonly found in the Alps. They are said to be bright and social, but
reserved. Choucas can move quickly; they are true mountain survivors.
14
Elisabeth Revol, Ailefroide, Ecrins Massif © Paul Ravoire
HARNESS
glove friendly buckle,
aircraft grade aluminum
variable-width waist belt
spreads the load over its full
width for added comfort
2 slots for ice
screw holders
2 gear loops
full-strength
belay loop
quick release
leg loops
2 Ice screw
keepers
adjustable
leg loops
Dyneema® and high
tenacity polyester
SIZES
S
M
L
XL
waist
64-84 cm
74-94 cm
86-106 cm
100-120 cm
leg loops
56-66 cm
60-72 cm
62-82 cm
66-86 cm
15
hydration bladder
compatible
top or front
loading system
two zippered
pockets for safely
storing small items
removable
hip belt
420 D rip-stop
CORDURA®
lateral ski
carrying system
850 D ballistic
CORDURA®
16
carrying system
for two ice axes or
collapsible ski poles
PACK
separate inner pocket
with gear loops for
shovel and probe
100 D high tenacity
rip-stop Nylon
WHITE TIGER 25L PACK
VERSATILE, ULTRA-STRONG PACK DESIGNED FOR EVERYTHING
FROM MOVING FAST ON TECHNICAL ALPINE TERRAIN TO LONG SKI
DAYS ON STEEP SLOPES OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
The White Tiger 25L backpack is especially designed for demanding
alpinists and skiers looking to make fast and efficient ascents on
alpine terrain, and challenging ski descents. The 25L volume is ideal
for minimalist climbers and skiers who want to avoid the extra weight
and bulk of unnecessary equipment. The pack can simultaneously
carry two ice axes (or a pair of collapsible ski poles) and almost any
pair of skis, from the skinniest models to the fattest powder boards.
The main zippered compartment allows you to load the pack from
the top or from the front. Two small zippered pockets keep small
items safe and easily accessible, while an internal compartment with
two gear loops stores a snow probe and shovel handle securely. The
White Tiger 25L backpack is specially focused on skiing. It features a
minimalist design, and is built to last.
ideal uses Backcountry skiing, alpine climbing
volume 25L
weight 800 g
style BK10
made in Vietnam
German Allende, Pointe Alphonse Favre, France © Irene Marcotti
17
WARTHOG 26L PACK
OUR MOST MINIMALIST BACKPACK FOR LIGHT AND FAST ONE-DAY
ASCENTS AND SHORT TECHNICAL CLIMBS
The Warthog 26L is our toughest, most streamlined backpack.
Designed by alpine guides and built for extremely intensive use,
it features just the accessories you need and nothing more. The
helmet holder, rope carrier and top-loading design optimize carrying
capacity during the approach. The top lid features a separate pocket
to keep your wallet and keys safe when you rummage for an energy
bar or sunglasses at the belay. The low-profile hip belt won’t interfere
with your harness, and the pack’s compact design ensures maximum
freedom of movement when you’re climbing. The Warthog holds up
to the harshest abuse and climbs like a champ, making it the ideal
pack for light and fast one-day ascents and short technical climbs.
ideal uses Rock and ice climbing, mountaineering
volume 26L
weight 690 g
style BK07
made in Vietnam
helmet
holder
top lid with external and
internal pockets
hydration bladdercompatible
rope
holder
removable
hip belt 850 D ballistic
CORDURA®
18
500 D
CORDURA®
dual ice tool
holders
PACK
Fred Mathieu, Wadi Rum, Burdah Arch, Jordan © Landier Sylvie
19
WARTHOG 38L PACK
A TOUGH, ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT PACK FOR LONG TECHNICAL
ROUTES AND ALPINE GUIDING
The Warthog 38L is tough and light like its little brother, the Warthog
26L, but added volume and features make it suitable for longer
adventures. Like its smaller sibling, it features a helmet holder, rope
carrier, and internal pocket for valuables. The front compression
straps can be used to transport skis or a snowboard, and the ice tool
holders are perfectly designed for carrying a set of technical tools.
Additional features include a three-point haul system, a removable
bivy pad and two inner gear loops. This pack is incredibly durable,
and its compact design ensures maximum freedom of movement
when you’re climbing. The Warthog 38L is the perfect companion for
all of your most demanding alpine adventures.
ideal uses Rock and ice climbing, mountaineering, expeditions
volume 38L
weight 950 g
style BK10
made in China
20
Martin Elias and Sergio G. Gomez, Matterhorn North Face, Switzerland © Lise Billon
PACK
removable
three-fold
bivy pad
500 D
CORDURA®
helmet
holder
rope carrier
under the lid
three-point
haul system
dual ice tool
holders
removable
hip belt
850 D ballistic
CORDURA®
front compression
straps for skis or a
snowboard
21
YETI 45L PACK
A VERSATILE, RUGGED PACK FOR SERIOUS CLIMBS FROM
LONG ALPINE ROUTES TO LIGHTWEIGHT EXPEDITIONS
We’ve taken the great features and design of the Yeti 30L and
created the Yeti 45L pack. Just as streamlined and versatile as
the 30L version, the Yeti 45L has the added carrying capacity
you need for serious multi-day alpine climbs and a slightly
longer back. We’ve also added adjustable stabilizing straps for
managing heavier loads, and an external zipper to make it easy
to access the contents of your pack. Like the smaller version,
the Yeti 45L features carrying systems for your ice tools, skis or
snowboard, and any other oversized gear. Four removable gear
loops keep crucial protection within easy reach, and a pair of
fixed gear loops inside the pack help you stay organized. Two
pockets inside the top lid are designed for storing your keys,
wallet, and other valuables. Gram-counting alpinists can strip
the Yeti 45L of all of its accessories, transforming it into one of
the lightest packs in its category.
ideal uses Alpine climbing, ice climbing, expeditions, trekking,
backcountry skiing
volume 45L +10L
weight 1480 g | min 850 g
style BK09
made in China
removable and
adjustable top lid
hydration
bladdercompatible
aluminum
stays can be
customized
rope holder
420 D rip-stop
CORDURA®
three-point
haul system
front zipper for
easy access to
pack contents
front and side
compression straps
for carrying skis or
a snowboard
removable padded hip
belt and back frame
22
two fixed gear
loops inside
the pack
dual ice tool
holders
850 D ballistic
CORDURA®
PACK
YETI 30L PACK
A VERSATILE, RUGGED PACK FOR LONG
AND DEMANDING ALPINE CLIMBS
ideal uses Alpine climbing, ice climbing,
trekking, backcountry skiing
volume 30L + 10L
weight 1360 g | min 840 g
style BK08
made in China
YETI 60L PACK
A TOUGH, STREAMLINED PACK FOR
CARRYING SERIOUS LOADS
ideal uses Alpine climbing,
expeditions, trekking
volume 60 L +10L
weight 1600 g | min 860 g
style BK04
made in China
Hélias Millerioux, Nepal Kangchenjunga Area © Jonathan Crison
23
STORY
E. Revol, Pobeda Glacier, Tian Shan Massif, Kirghizistan © Violaine Ragot
Postcards from Tian Shan
“We had arrived on the Inylchek glacier. The twists and turns of the moraine
unfolded endlessly in all directions, as the light faded across the mesmerising landscape. Long shadows, bluish rock on the horizon, all around us snowy summits
rising up from lush meadows… Our bodies were tired and our minds were foggy,
but we felt incredibly lucky to be immersed in this universe.
After sixty kilometres of hiking and three different camps before reaching the fork
in the glacier, we set up our basecamp.
We had trained for this project for several months, our minds teetering between
apprehension and desire. On the one hand we harboured doubts and fear of the
natural conditions, the wind and the cold, all reasons why life here is impossible.
But on the other hand, we were eager to test ourselves on these oversized mountains, to feel the energy of a well-oiled climbing team, to make the most of the
24
opportunity we had to explore this majestic terrain.
Our gaze was drawn to a series of ridges that rose up to the south of our basecamp. We set our sights on an unnamed summit that topped out at around 4,800
metres. A beautiful snow ridge interrupted by sections of mixed climbing would
lead us to the imposing summit snow mushroom.
We forged a trail, ant-like, across the moraine, dodging the lakes and steep slopes
of this white labyrinth. It took us three hours to reach the reddish grasslands above
the glacier’s left bank. From here, we climbed ledges and scree fields and then
followed an aesthetic snowy spine. Next came a section of thin, unprotected ice
on the apex of the ridge. Our hearts pounding in our chests, we arrived at the top
of the steep section, out of breath but happy to experience the joys of climbing
at this altitude. The terrain that followed featured some unconsolidated snow,
Elisabeth Revol, Inilcheck Glacier © V. Ragot
Elisabeth Revol, Drujby ridge © V. Ragot
which showered us with a couple of small sloughs. A hundred and fifty metres of
steep, exposed snow slopes between beautiful ice flutes brought us to the foot of
the massive, meringue-like summit formation. Twenty metres of layers of snow
towered over us. It looked like we would be able to skirt this accumulation of years
worth of compacted snow by way of a small col. But all of the sudden we were
enveloped in fog, and then snowflakes. Rapidly, the visibility diminished to no
more than ten metres. The summit was so close, but the fog cloaked too many
hidden dangers.
Upon our return, we threw ourselves into our tent, where everything was once
again simple and easy. The glacier, our trusty bivouac companion, groaned and
creaked all night long. We fell asleep happy, already thinking about our next day
at altitude.”
“Climbing these ridges was a thrill because it was truly a matter of
exploring the unknown. ‘Has anyone else already set foot here?’
we wondered. ‘Does this summit have a name?’ The conditions
seemed perfect. We felt like we were right where we should be. It was
tempting to hurry, but there was no use in rushing, we had a long
journey ahead! We had a bite to eat, excited from our adventure on
this unknown summit. Like two little hardworking ants, we carefully
made our way along the ridge.
Once again, our lives were full of meaning, offering us this magical
moment. Here we were on a route high above an incredibly beautiful
region, surrounded by corniced ridges and snow sculpted by the high
altitude winds, which drew lines that played with the fleeting perspectives of the two sides of the mountain, making for scenes that
were both sumptuous and intoxicating. The curves lifted our gaze
towards the sky, towards the summits of Tian Shan on the horizon,
towards this immense sea bobbing with snow-covered peaks as far
as the eye could see.
We had found what we had come for: discovery and exploration, the
beautiful leap of the heart into the unknown.”
Elisabeth Revol
25
26
Todo Cambia, Pared del Tiempo, Chile © Elise Maillot
highly breathable
shoulder straps
zippered pocket
for safely storing
smaller items
100 denier
high-tenacity
rip-stop Nylon
420 D rip-stop
CORDURA®
removable
hip belt and
sternum strap
DRAGONFLY 18L PACK
ULTRALIGHT, VERSATILE BACKPACK THAT GOES WITH YOU
EVERYWHERE FROM SHORT HIKES TO LONG TRAD CLIMBING
ROUTES
The Dragonfly is designed for minimalist climbers looking to carry
just the essentials. With highly breathable shoulder straps and a
featherweight of merely 320 grams, you will barely notice you’re
carrying it. When you don’t need the pack, fold it into its own pocket
and store it away during travel or inside a larger pack on the approach
hike. For the most minimalist climbers, the foam back pad, hip belt
and sternum strap can all be removed to further decrease bulk and
weight. The generous zippered pocket allows you to safely store
small items. The versatile daisy chain system can be used to carry
a pair of collapsible ski poles or other large gear. The streamlined
rope carrying system stabilizes your rope and can be tucked away in
the hydration slit. Like all of our backpacks, the Dragonfly features a
minimalist design and is built to last.
ideal uses Rock climbing, hiking and trekking, alpine climbing
volume 18L
weight 325 g
style BK14
made in Vietnam
PACK
hydration
bladdercompatible
rope carrying
system
carrying system for
collapsible poles
stuffs into its
own pocket
removable foam
back panel
27
OCTOPUS PACK
SIMPLE AND PRACTICAL CRAG PACK THAT IS IDEAL FOR
TRANSPORTING AND STORING CLIMBING EQUIPMENT AT THE
LOCAL CRAG OR THE CLIMBING GYM
The Octopus is a clever, comfortable crag pack. Its unique, one-piece
construction gives it a clean look and makes it highly durable. The
back of the pack opens like a book, providing easy access to all of
your gear and keeping the shoulder straps and back panel out of the
dirt. There is plenty of room for an 80-meter rope, a set of quickdraws,
a belay device, climbing shoes, water, and a light jacket. The three
large pockets (one internal and two external) allow you to safely store
and access smaller items, while the mesh pocket keeps your shoes
separate and easily accessible. The shoulder straps tuck away and the
pack’s size easily complies with most airline carry on requirements, a
practical feature when you’re traveling with your climbing gear. This
pack will quickly become your favorite companion for sessions at
the crag and the gym, or when you’re traveling with your climbing
equipment.
three large zipped
ideal uses Rock climbing
pockets for safely
volume 40L
storing smaller gear
weight 840 g
style BK15
made in Vietnam
fits most carry-on
requirements
two handles
for top and
side carrying
tuck away shoulder
and belt straps
separate compartment
for climbing shoes
28
420 D rip-stop
CORDURA®
one-piece
construction
100 D high-tenacity
rip-stop Nylon
two internal
gear loops
PACK
Piedra Parada, Argentina © Tomas Mueller
29
hydration bladdercompatible
MONO 7L PACK
SLING PACK DESIGNED FOR MAXIMUM FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT
The Mono is the ideal companion for situations when you need to
carry just the basics without compromising freedom of movement.
The carrying system is just as stable as a normal pack, but the oneshoulder design allows you to rotate the bag so you can safely and
easily access the contents. There is a side pocket for storing a camera,
sunglasses, and other small items. The helmet holder and gear loop
make this the perfect pack for multi-pitch rock climbing, while the ski
carry system and probe & shovel-friendly design also make it a great
partner for your winter freeride adventures.
ideal uses Rock climbing, ski, traveling
volume 7L
weight 490 g
style BK11
made in Vietnam
500 D
CORDURA®
side
pocket
ski carry
system
helmet
holder
gear loop
3-point sling pack with
easy access design
30
850 D ballistic
CORDURA®
PACK
removable 12L
compartment
hydration bladdercompatible
4 fixed +
4 adjustable
gear loops
500 D
CORDURA®
DOUBLE MONO PACK
CLEVER PACK WITH INTEGRATED GEAR SLING FOR LONG
TECHNICAL CLIMBS
The Double Mono was designed with big walls, multi-pitch and aid
climbing in mind. The double shoulder gear sling features eight
separate gear loops to help you organize your rack, and it can
be adjusted separately from the pack’s shoulder straps. You can
easily access the removable 12L compartment at belay stations
without taking off the gear sling. The pack has plenty of room for
a windbreaker, water and a pair of shoes for the descent. There is
no hip belt to interfere with your harness and the sternum strap is
strategically located to keep the pack in place on even the steepest
overhangs. Like all of our backpacks, the Double Mono features a
minimalist design and is built to last.
ideal uses Rock climbing, multi-pitch, and aid climbing
volume 12 L
weight gear sling and pack 600 g | gearsling only 250 g
style BK05
made in Vietnam
safety
whistle
helmet
holder
elastic side
pockets
1000 D
CORDURA®
31
KOALA ROPE BAG
THE PERFECT ROPE BAG FOR ALL OF YOUR GYM AND CRAGGING
NEEDS
Finally, a rope bag to help you stay organized at the crag
or the gym! Our Koala rope bag features a large tarp, two
separate pockets for personal items, and a variety of carrying
possibilities. Tighten the straps of the bag to compress the rope
so you can carry it in your pack, or loosen the same straps and
carry the bag by hand or over the shoulder. You can even carry
the bag as a backpack, freeing up your hands if you need to
scramble from one part of the crag to another. The aluminum
hooks used to secure the bag’s straps are easy to handle and
virtually indestructible.
ideal uses Crag and indoor climbing, carrying and storing gear
weight 540 g
style RB01
made in Vietnam
32
Rue des Masques, Hautes-Alpes, France © Irene Marcotti
PACK
600 D
polyester
aluminum
hooks
210 D
nylon
large tarp with
loops to secure the
ends of the rope
large pocket for guidebook
and other items
zippered pocket for small
personal items
33
STORY
Todo Cambia
10 January 2014, rendezvous in Puerto Montt!
It seemed a bit improbable, but to our immense surprise our plan had
worked.
Our team of three women met up in Puerto Montt, with the goal of
putting up a multi-pitch rock route in Cochamo Valley.
Cochamo Valley is located in Araucania, the lakes region in the south
of Chile, near Puerto Montt (1,300 km south of Santiago). The area is a
paradise for climbers and trekkers in search of adventure, and remains
relatively unknown in spite of its beauty. Cochamo is the Yosemite of
Latin America, but without the road, the cars, and the rangers!
The downside is the unpredictable weather. The vegetation is dense
and tropical. Dinosaur-aged trees grow in the forest, sometimes serving
as bridges for hikers. The landscape lends itself to contemplation, with
granite domes as far as the eye can see and an idyllic river that flows at
the foot of these rocky giants.
We started off by climbing a couple of classic routes, in order to get a
feel for the rock and the general environment.
After a couple of days of rain and reconnaissance missions, we ended
up finding a face that appeared to be unclimbed. We also met an
American climber who had spotted the same wall that we had. We
agreed on a line that had a lot of vegetation on it, but also appeared to
have some cracks. We would set out as a team of four to establish the
new route.
We started off by setting up a basecamp closer to the face.
It took us three days to reach the summit and three more days of
cleaning to remove the dirt and vegetation. We discovered amazing
cracks under all the vegetation, which continued for nearly the entire
route. Heavy rains would complete our cleaning work, but this meant
that we didn’t have time to free climb all the pitches of Todo Cambia
(Everything Changes). Oh well, that’s the weather for you! And it was
time to head back to France.
Elise Maillot
34
Laure Batoz and Caroline North, Todo Cambia, Chile © Elise Maillot
Todo Cambia:
• 8 pitches
• ED+
• Retreat on rappel would be difficult
• Descent on rappel by a different route.
Rack:
• Nuts: 1 set
• Cams: 2 each .4” through 1”; 3 each 1.25” through 3”; 1 each 3.5”
(4.5” optional)
• Slings of various lengths.
Climbers:
• Laure Batoz,
• Caroline North
• Elise Maillot
• Cooper Varney.
Elise and Caroline © Laure Batoz
Cerro Trinidad, Chile © Elise Maillot
35
36
Jonathan Crison, Central Boktoh, Nepal Kangchenjunga area © Hélias Millerioux
ACCESSORIES
BOA LEASH
LIGHT WEIGHT, VERSATILE LEASH SYSTEM FOR COMMITTING
ALPINE ROUTES
With the Boa leash system, you get all the advantages of leashless
tools, without the risk of dropping them! The leashes are a simple,
lightweight way to connect your tools directly to your harness. The
updated Boa system includes a separate tether for each tool, so you
can use just one or both as necessary. To save weight, the large loops
allow you to girth hitch the leashes directly to your tools, without
requiring carabiners. The leashes are different colors so you can
easily identify your right and left-hand tools. They can also be used
to secure a piton hammer, camera, or even a backpack. True to Blue
Ice tradition, the Boa leash system offers a compact, minimalist and
versatile solution for your boldest alpine adventures.
ideal uses Mountaineering, mixed and ice climbing
strength 2 kN
weight 50 g the pair
style BL02
made in France
elastic
webbing
POSSIBILITIES FOR TOOL ATTACHMENT
no carabiners
required for
attachment
over
the blade
with a
carabiner
37
POFF CHALK BAG
ELEGANT, FUNC TIONAL CHALK BAG FEATURING OUR OWN
UNIQUE GRAPHICS
Now available in two different styles, the elegant Poff chalk bag is
designed to accompany you on all of your hardest sends. It is made
of 420D nylon and features a large opening with a stiff rim and a soft
fleece lining. There are brush holders on both sides of the chalk bag,
and the third pocket is perfect for stashing keys, ID, or a credit card.
You can wear the chalk bag with the included belt or attach it to your
harness with a carabiner.
ideal uses Rock climbing and bouldering
weight 85 g
style CB02
made in Vietnam
large
opening
dual brush
holder
waist belt
or carabiner
attachment
key and ID
pocket
420D nylon
38
Olivier François, Indian Creek, Utah, USA © Antoine Pêcher
ACCESSORIES
155 gr/m2
100% fair trade
organic cotton
manufactured using
sustainable energy
no sweatshop
labor
CLIMBING IS LIFE #03 T-SHIRT
BLUE ICE LIMITED EDITION T-SHIRTS: BOLD
DESIGNS, EARTH-FRIENDLY MANUFACTURING!
True to Blue Ice values, this t-shirt features 100%
fair trade organic cotton and is manufactured using
socially and environmentally responsible methods,
including sustainable energy sources.
sizes XS, S, M , L
style Man TS08
made in India
unisex
regular fit
39
40
210 x 265 mm
format
soft cover
with flaps
264 color
pages
BOOK
THE ART OF ICE CLIMBING
REQUIRED READING FOR ALL ICE CLIMBERS AND ALPINISTS!
Everyone who has ever swung an ice tool, or wanted to learn, has
something to gain from this excellent new book. Much more than
your basic instructional manual, it presents an in-depth look at the
sport of ice climbing, from the earliest alpine ascents to modern dry
tooling. There is a wealth of information on climbing techniques,
equipment, history, and even the science of ice itself. All ice climbers
should pay close attention to the authors’ innovative “Check and Go”
risk reduction method, and their detailed analysis of the different
types of ice formations.
Numerous photos, charts, and diagrams illustrate the text, and there
are personal accounts written by top ice climbers and alpinists. The
Art of Ice Climbing is suitable for ice climbers of all abilities, as well as
guides, instructors, and alpine clubs.
Foreword of the English version by Jeff Lowe.
style English BO02 | The Art of Ice Climbing
French BO01 | Glaces: arts, expériences et techniques
printed in Italy
41
Giovanni Rossi
The boss
Claire Lafoux
Sales
Virginie Lafond
Admin
Camille Didillon
THE POWER OF YOUTH: WORK HARD, PLAY HARD
We are a small team, and most of us were under the age of
30 when we started. We love the mountains, and we find real
satisfaction in creating the best tools for enjoying them. It
used to be that we would stay up late planning our adventures
— pouring over guidebooks to pick out our next alpine route,
ice climb, or ski tour. Now you’re just as likely to find us in the
Blue Ice laboratory — sketching, mocking up, critiquing and
revising the latest gear designs. Our energy for this project is
endless and our passion is at the heart of what we do.
42
Irene Marcotti
Design
Manu Ibarra
Engineering
Mylène Fornier
Production
Alberto Giolitti
Marketing
Jonathan Crison
Jérôme Blanc-Gras
Publications
Korra Pesce
PEOPLE
Marco Tamponi
Krister Jonsson
Matteo Giglio
Marco Spataro
Luca Rolli
Fred Mathieu
German Allende
Sylvie Drouillat
Helias Millerioux
Dante Alegria
Sebastian Laurent
Elisabeth Revol
Tomas Mueller
Roch Malnuit
Insiders and friends
Olivier François
43
Our goal is to create highly durable products that are manufactured
in a responsible, sustainable manner. This is an integral part of our
commitment to the environment.
OUR WARRANTY
We guarantee all of our products to be free from defects in material
and workmanship. If you are not satisfied with one of our products
or if it does not perform to your expectations, simply return it to us
for repair, replacement or refund.
Our guarantee does not cover damage caused by normal wear and
tear, misuse or modifications. Nonetheless, in the case of normal
wear and tear we promise to make repairs for a reasonable price
and in a timely manner.
For more information about our repair and return policies, please
visit our website at: www.blueice.com.
Blue Ice
336 Route du Nant Jorland
74310 LES HOUCHES
France
www.blueice.com
[email protected]
+33 (0)4 50 21 14 89
FOLLOW US
www.facebook.com/BlueIce
www.twitter.com/BlueIceClimbing
Dent du Géant, Mont Blanc Massif © Luca Rolli
CT05-SFT-EN © Blue Ice 2015. All rights reserved. Printed in Italy.