Pickets and snow stakes are both aluminium stakes for building snow anchors, with the difference largely one of size and strength. A picket is typically a longer, sturdier T- or angle-section stake; 'snow stake' can include lighter, flatter stakes. Both are driven in or buried as deadmen, and both depend on snow quality.
| Aspect | Picket | Snow Stake |
|---|---|---|
| Build | Sturdy T or angle section | Flatter, can be lighter |
| Length | Often 60-90 cm | Varies |
| Placement | Driven or buried (deadman) | Driven or buried (deadman) |
| Strength | Generally stronger | Lighter-duty |
| Snow dependence | High | High |
Choose a picket if…
- You want a stronger, versatile snow anchor
- You're on steep snow or doing crevasse rescue
- You want a robust workhorse piece
Choose a snow stake if…
- You want to save weight
- Your placements are lighter-duty
- You're carrying a minimalist kit
Verdict
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a picket and a snow stake?
Mostly size and strength. A picket is typically a longer, sturdier aluminium stake (often a T- or angle-section, 60-90 cm), while 'snow stake' can include lighter, flatter stakes. Both are snow anchors placed driven-in or buried as deadmen.
Which is stronger?
A picket is generally stronger and more versatile, but for any snow anchor the dominant factor is the snow itself — firm, consolidated snow holds far better than soft snow, regardless of which stake you use. Burying as a deadman usually beats driving it in soft snow.
How do you place them?
In firm snow, drive the stake in vertically or angled back from the load; in soft snow, bury it horizontally as a 'deadman' with the clip-in running down through a slot. Always test the placement and back up critical anchors.
Related: Picket · Snow Stake · Snow anchor · Snow bollard