How to choose ski poles?

Ski poles are an essential piece of equipment for the slopes. Whether you're skiing downhill or cross-country, well-chosen poles are a valuable accessory, crucial for comfortable skiing or effective training. The selection of ski poles is now vast, making finding the best ones even more crucial.

Ski poles - what is most important when choosing?

The choice of accessories largely depends on the intended use of the ski poles. Downhill skiers look for slightly different poles than cross-country skiers. Above all, we expect a good grip, meaning a flexible handle that fits the shape of our hand. Poles are also an indispensable aid on flat surfaces, where they enable propulsion.

Many people also pay attention to other features of ski poles. For example, sharp tips are important, as they allow for effective push-offs and dynamic movement during cross-country skiing training. The durability of the material from which the poles are made is also important.

The primary selection criterion, however, is the length of the ski poles. Ski poles should, above all, ensure proper posture during training, whether it's running, descending a demanding slope, or climbing a hill with the help of poles.

How to choose the right size ski poles?

Both longer poles and those that are too short can contribute to discomfort during physical activity and can also hinder the achievement of satisfactory results. When purchasing ski poles, you should first determine the correct pole length. This determines whether the poles will function properly.

Poles are used by runners, downhill skiers, and cross-country skiers. The worst possible solution is to buy poles that are too short: too short can cause you to stoop. Properly fitted poles, on the other hand, automatically straighten your back. Poles that are too long, in turn, distort your entire posture, preventing it from stabilizing. If you're unsure how to choose your pole size, consult our advisors. They'll help you choose the best size and also tell you what to look for.

The general rule is that to choose the best poles, you should choose a model that allows you to maintain a right angle between your arm and forearm while maintaining a neutral posture.

How to measure ski poles?

It's important to remember that when skiing or running in the snow, we push off the ground, driving the pole into the snow. Therefore, if you're planning to buy poles, be sure to turn them upside down with the plate facing down and grab them just below it. This will give the poles the same height as if they were being driven into the ground.

If you're buying poles online, you can calculate the exact length you need by multiplying your height by 0.7. This means that if you're 170 cm tall, you'll need a pole 119-120 cm long.

Basket size is also important. A smaller diameter basket is best for skiing on groomed trails, a larger one is suitable for skiing in powder and deep snow, and a medium-sized basket can be considered a universal model.

How can ski poles differ?

The differences between ski poles aren't particularly significant. The most noticeable feature is the specially contoured shape of the grips. Ergonomic grips are often the very thing that makes specific poles cost more. More expensive models use poles that fit the hand best. This is important, for example, for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. A well-fitting grip also protects the hands from excessive strain.

The durability of the material from which the poles are made also matters. Better poles are often made from stronger aluminum alloys or carbon fiber composites. Freeride poles use more robust shafts, usually with a slightly larger diameter. Unusually shaped poles are designed for competitors in giant slalom and speed disciplines, among others.

An additional feature is the straps, which automatically release after a fall, providing greater safety. However, it's still recommended not to wear straps off-piste, as it's easier to remove the poles in the event of a fall.

Once you've chosen the right length of poles, also take a look at ski goggles and ski helmets .

See also other guide posts on what ski goggles to choose and how to choose a ski helmet so that it does not hinder you while sliding down the slope.