Ski poles are an essential piece of skiing equipment. They provide you with support and balance, help you time your turns, help you hike, skate around the mountain and pull your snowboard mates on the flats.

TYPE

Generally, just about every ski pole can be used for all-mountain skiing. However, there are a few specialty types of poles. yfujyryjtfduytfjy

All-Mountain

These poles range from basic aluminium to high-tech carbon fibre for skiers of all ages and ability.

Freestyle

These poles are much shorter, allowing for greater maneuverability and have smaller grips for grab tricks.

Race

Race poles feature the most technical and durable materials. For speed events, some poles are shaped for aerodynamics. They usually have smaller cone-shaped baskets that reduce the chance of getting hooked on gates.

Side Country/Backcountry

These poles feature an adjustable length and can also have backcountry tools such as an ice axe or inclinometer.

Cross Country

An ideal cross-country ski pole is light and stiff, allowing the skier to constantly lift the pole over long durations and the stiffness to generate force when pushing.

MATERIAL

Aluminium

This material is common in junior and beginner ski poles. It is not as light as other high-tech materials such as carbon fibre, however, it is durable and economical.

High-Grade Aluminium

High-grade aluminium has a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it very durable while providing a stiffer feel than other lighter weight materials. However, it can be more expensive than conventional materials.

Composite

These poles are more flexible and durable than standard aluminium

and can bend easily without breaking.

Carbon Fiber

These are high-end poles commonly used by advanced skiers. Carbon fiber has a very high strength-to-weight ratio and is also flexible.