How to Choose the Right Ski Pole Length?

The ski pole, an essential ally

This tool optimizes support, allowing you to ski at a good rhythm. It helps you cross flat areas. Moreover, during turns, it ensures better weight distribution and makes it easier to synchronize your movements.

However, specialists advise against using ski poles if you are just starting the discipline. You may be tempted to lean on them for balance instead of positioning your feet correctly.

Learning happens step by step. It is essential. Guidance from an instructor or a more experienced person is therefore recommended. Then, it is important to stay attentive to your sensations on the slopes. This way, you will gradually improve your technique.

Understanding the characteristics of a ski pole

The ski pole consists of several elements: the grip, the strap, the shaft, and the basket. Each plays a specific role.

The strap is a loop placed at the top of the pole. Wrapped around the wrist, it maintains the connection between skier and pole to prevent loss in case of a fall or release. Brands offer different designs, which you can choose according to personal preference. Some models now even prioritize safety.

Located at the end, just before the tip, the basket prevents the ski pole from sinking abruptly into the snow. Its diameter ranges from 50 mm to 120 mm. There are two types: piste baskets and powder baskets. The first are narrower but more resistant, designed for hard snow and groomed slopes. The second stand out for their larger diameter, ensuring better support.

The grips enhance comfort. They provide more adaptability depending on terrain. Foam, cork, rubber, plastic—manufacturers use several materials.

The shaft is the main part of the pole. In the past, skiers used natural woods like chestnut. Today, manufacturers mostly use aluminum. They also produce tubes made of carbon fiber or composite.

What is the correct ski pole length?

A quick and easy method to check

The simplest way to know the right ski pole length is to turn it upside down, holding it just under the basket. The pole is the correct size if your elbow forms a right angle, i.e., 90°. If your arm rises above this, it is too long. If it falls below, it is too short.

 

Height (cm)	Piste/Freeride (cm)	Cross-country skiing (cm)
100	65	75 - 85
110	75	85 - 95
120	80	95 - 105
130	90	105 – 115
140	95	115 – 125
150	105	125 – 135
160	110	135 - 145
170	120	145 - 155
180	125	150 - 160
190	135	160 - 170
200	140	170 - 180

 

Adapt your pole length to your discipline

Choosing the right ski pole length is essential to ensure comfort, performance, and safety. Whether you are a fan of alpine skiing, freeride, freestyle, or ski touring, the height of your poles should adapt to your style.

For alpine skiing: check the right angle

Stand upright with your arms at your sides, then lift your forearm until it forms a right angle. The distance between your fist and the ground corresponds to the ideal ski pole length for piste skiing. This principle also applies to leisure skiing or competition.

For freeride: go for longer poles

In freeride skiing, a few extra centimeters are recommended for better stability in powder snow. This allows for more effective support on steep slopes and couloirs.

For freestyle: shorter poles

In freestyle skiing, choose shorter poles to make tricks easier and avoid interference during rotations.

For ski touring: telescopic and lightweight

Ski touring poles should be telescopic to adapt to the slope. Opt for models made of carbon for their lightness and durability. This reduces fatigue on the climb and increases control on the descent.

Leading brands

• Head
• Rossignol
• K2
• Volkl