How to Choose the Best Downhill Ski Poles

Shop Downhill Ski Poles For Sale in St. Paul, MN

When it comes to skiing, your poles may not be the first thing you think of, but they play an essential role in your overall performance. From helping you maintain balance to propelling you forward on flat terrain, the right poles can enhance your skiing experience. At Joe's Sporting Goods, we offer a wide range of downhill ski poles to fit every skier's needs, from beginners to advanced athletes.

 

When Should I Purchase My Ski Poles?

Ski poles should be one of the last pieces of equipment you purchase. Unlike skis or boots, which have a direct impact on your comfort and control, ski poles are more about convenience and preference. For beginner or intermediate skiers, there’s no need to invest in expensive poles right away. Simply choose a pair within your price range that fits your style.

 

How Long Should Downhill Ski Poles Be?

By far the most common question we get at Joe’s is: How tall should downhill ski poles be? In general, the taller you are, the longer your poles should be. If the poles are too short, you’ll have trouble maintaining balance and control. Too long, and they’ll be cumbersome.

The easiest way to determine the right length is by flipping the pole upside down and grabbing it just under the basket. When the pole is perpendicular to the ground, your arm should form a 90-degree angle.

Of course, if you’re shopping online, you don’t have a wall of ski poles to play with. In that case, a simple ski pole sizing chart can help you find the right length based on your height. Keep in mind that most poles fall in the 120-125 cm (48-50 inches) range.

 

What Ski Pole Material is Best?

The material of your ski poles can make a difference in weight, durability, and cost. Here are the most common materials to choose from:

• Aluminum: Lightweight, affordable, and durable. Heat-treated aluminum poles are stronger and more flexible than standard aluminum options. If you are a beginner, this is a great place to start.
• Carbon fiber: These poles are the lightest and most performance-oriented, but they are also more expensive and can be fragile. If you’re an advanced skier or racer, carbon fiber is worth considering for its stiffness and weight.

 

Features to Consider When Buying Ski Poles

When shopping for ski poles, here are some additional features to consider based on your skiing style:

• Flexibility: If you’re a beginner or a recreational skier, flexible poles will provide a more forgiving experience and are easier to handle. Advanced skiers or racers, however, will benefit from stiffer poles that transfer more power and control. Taller or heavier skiers should also opt for stiffer poles for added support.
• LEKI Trigger System: This feature allows you to quickly detach the pole from the wrist strap with the push of a button. This allows for easy access to your pockets or making quick adjustments to your gear on the slopes.
• Gate Guards: If you’re into slalom racing, attachable gate guards protect your hands from the gates, ensuring you don’t break your knuckles during tight turns.

 

Can You Use Cross-Country Ski Poles for Downhill Skiing?

Although they may seem similar, the short answer is no. Cross-country poles are longer, designed for gliding over flat terrain, and often made from lightweight materials that aren’t durable enough for downhill skiing. Using them for downhill skiing could affect your balance and control, making them unsuitable for the sport.

Similarly, we don’t recommend using downhill ski poles for Nordic skiing. Downhill poles are shorter and heavier than cross-country poles, making them less effective for the continuous, rhythmic motions required in cross-country skiing. Each type of skiing requires poles specifically designed for that style, so it's best to choose the right poles for the right activity.

 

Whether you need affordable aluminum poles or high-performance carbon fiber ones, we’ve got you covered. Visit our St. Paul, MN location for more expert advice and fitting services, or browse our online selection of men’s, women’s, and youth alpine ski poles today!