The snow at
this altitude (above 5500 m) is as a very fine sand, it is very
easy to destroy the steps: a light push and a step is peeling off.
Then, standing on one step you see the next one at the level of your breast. Not very convenient if you have a heavy rucksak.
The only right way is to lift yourself on your leg absolutly without pushing, very slowly and smootly, tenderly.
Igor Sand