You are finally ready to upgrade to your own set of ski poles from the rental ones at the ski center. But someone else always gets you your poles and they are magically the perfect size.
As you shop around for the perfect ski poles, the most important thing is that they are the right height. Too tall or too short and your skiing trip could turn into something disastrous.
In this article we explain how tall your ski poles should be to provide you with a smooth, exciting adventure. We even explain the different elements that create your beloved ski poles!
How Tall Should Ski Poles Be?
Whether you have a current pair of ski poles at home and are looking to upgrade or are wanting to invest in a brand new pair, there is a great way to check how tall your skis should be.
Turn your pole upside down and have your hand under the basket.
Does your elbow make a 90 degree angle?
If your arm lies straight down then your poles are too short.
If your arm moves up then they are too tall.
However, if you do not have a pair of poles to use as a guide, you can still find the perfect height for your ski poles.
For a child or person with a height between 3 foot 8 inches to 4 foot 2 inches then they should have a pole between 36 inches to 42 inches.
It is important to note that ski poles are created in 2 inch increments. So if someone is 4 feet in height then they would find ski poles of 34 inches most comfortable.
Those that stand between 4 foot 4 inches to 4 foot 10 inches should look for ski poles between 36 inches to 42 inches.
This will increase every two inches as the person grows in height. However, those 6 foot and 6 inches and over may struggle to find ski poles that fit them comfortably.
In general, park and pipe skiers should use shorter poles (by at least one 2″ size) since they are less prone to get caught on the halfpipe’s walls.
It is recommended that you go into an outdoor center or store and request a formal fitting of all of your skiing equipment. This will ensure that everything fits correctly.
If you purchase skiing equipment without a formal fitting there is a higher chance of items not fitting your person correctly which could lead to a serious injury on the slopes.
Elements Of The Ski Pole
While a ski pole may look like a general pole, a handle, and a pointy bit at the end, there are actually a few elements that come together to make sure you feel safe and secure.
The Strap
A flexible nylon wrist strap is used with most poles. The strap helps hold the pole in the position you planted it in if you lose your grip while turning.
The straps prevent your poles from being buried in the snow far upslope if you fall and keep them with you.
The correct use of straps is extremely important throughout your entire journey on your skis. Your hand should go upwards, through the strap with your thumb and hand gripping over the strap and around the pole.
These days, some downhill ski poles come with removable straps—tearproof loops that snap into and out of the grips quickly.
When going to search for straps in the store, ensure to wear ski gloves (see also “What To Wear Cross Country Skiing“). This will ensure the straps fit correctly when you are wearing your full skiing gear.
The Basket
The basket is placed just before the tip of the ski pole. It has been designed to prevent the pole from sinking all the way into the snow as the glide. There are more than one type of basket available and should be an important part of the design process.
Piste Basket. This basket is narrower and sturdier. They have less wind surface area meaning that they are great for hard and groomed snow trails.
Powder Baskets. A powder basket is larger in size and is great for those who love going off track. The larger basket means that your pole won’t go as far into the snow as the piste basket.
When purchasing a ski pole it is important to remember that each brand will have their own set of baskets.
It is recommended that you use the basket by the brand. Baskets are rarely compatible with poles of a different brand and model.
The Grip
The grip of a ski pole is the handle. While this is the part you are holding it is often overlooked as skiers are wearing thick gloves.
However, the texture of the grip can be important depending on the person.
There are different types of grips for different types of skiing:
Touring Grips – The compact and thick shape of touring grips for ski poles provides a good and comfortable hold in every circumstance. The grips are built of sturdy, non-slip material because poles for touring, trekking, and hiking are used all year long. This ensures a secure grasp even when the weather is warm and the hands are sweaty.
Alpine Grips -The inner diameters of the grips for alpine ski poles are 14, 16, and 18 mm, and they come in a variety of sizes, materials, and configurations. Alpine ski pole grips are made of sturdy, temperature-resistant materials.
Final Thoughts
To determine the correct height of your ski poles they should be flipped upside down and your arm should come at a 90 degree angle.
However, if your arm falls down it is too short and if it goes upwards they are too tall.
It is important to remember that ski poles are created in increments of 2 inches. So, if you are inbetween sizes, it is always best to size down.
Don’t forget to consider the other elements of the ski pole such as the grip, basket, and strap.
With the perfect ski pole you can have incredible adventures!
Hi, my name is Jamie Andreas and I am a workaholic. I spent the best part of a decade climbing the corporate ladder, focusing on one thing and one thing only - my career.
Since then, I’ve stepped back in my job so that I have more free time to explore the wild. My mental health, clarity, and well-being have all improved by incredible amounts.
I now have a healthy work-life balance, and I want that for you too.
Life is too short to think of work only. Please enjoy my website and use it for inspiration for your next adventure. Maybe I’ll see you out there!
