GRIVEL ICE AXE REDESIGN
An ergonomic, modular redesign of an alpine climbing tool for Grivel.
This project investigates how Grivel—a legacy brand in alpine gear—can evolve its tools to welcome a broader audience without compromising on performance.
Inspired by modularity, ergonomics, and inclusivity, I developed a reconfigurable ice axe that adapts to multiple terrains and user levels.
01 Context
Year: Fall 2024
Course: Design Principles I
Medium: Foam, Resin, Cardboard, Carbon Fiber Simulation (CAD)
Category: Industrial Design / Outdoor Gear
Core Values
Market Trends
Challenges
Opportunities
Customizable, modular gear systems
Expansion into broader, more casual outdoor markets
Tech integration without functional compromise
Growing demand for sustainable materials
Innovation in performance tools
Alpine heritage & authenticity
Eco-conscious manufacturing
Commitment to user safety
Expand product usability across
user skill levels
Diversify activity types (climbing,
hiking, skiing)
Introduce modular heads and
ergonomic adjustability
Balancing weight vs. durability with sustainable materials
Preserving brand identity while innovating
Making elite tools more approachable
Founded in 1818 in the Italian Alps, Grivel is the oldest alpine gear manufacturer. Their tools, like the Twin Gate carabiner, reflect a rich heritage in climbing performance
and safety. My goal was to translate this expertise into a tool adaptable to both extreme athletes and outdoor novices alike.
Brand Analysis
02 User Insight
Luca Bianchi
Name
Male
Gender
36
Age
Courmayeur, Italy
Location
Enviornmental engineer
Occupation
Alpine climbing, mountain
Primary Activities
Very active
Activity Level
Grew up hiking & skiing in Italian alps.
Works remotely. Part of local mountain–
eering club. Cares deeply about
enviornmental preservation.
Background Information
Motivations
Achievement
Safety & Reliability
Sustainability
Needs & Goals
Technical Performance
Ergonomic Design
Versatility
Adventurous – always planning the next big climb.
Personality
Detail oriented – researches the best gear before every
purchase
Collaborative – enjoys sharing tips and experiences with
fellow climbers
Resilient – Comfortable with discomfort & uncertrainty
Weight of Gear – Needs lightweight equipment.
Frustration & Paint Points
Climate Change Effects – seasons are becoming more un-
predictable
Gear Maintenance – struggles with sharpening crampons
Goals
Own lightweight, ergonomic gear
Adapt to unpredictable weather conditions
Explore multi-purpose tools that reduce pack weight
03 Product Analysis Summary
04 Design Challenge
How might Grivel design high-performance alpine tools that are adaptable for both professional climbers and leisure users,
while staying true to its core values of safety, innovation, and durability?
05 Sketch Exploration
06 Sketch Models
Design Aspect
Ergonomics
07 User Testing Insights
Test Group: Climbers with varying experience levels (novice to expert)
Feedback Summary
Resulting Direction
Large grip at shaft top improved hand feel
Modularity
Loved concept of head-swapping for mixed terrain
Carabiner Feature
Felt forced and snagged during testing
Brand Alignment
Positive reacition to safety - driven design
Maintained and refined
Prioritized head modularity in final direction
Removed from final concept
Kept visual and functional consistency
07 Technical Refinements & CAD Conepts
Pole/Stick
Ice Pick
Ice Screw
08 Final Prototype
