Ski poles - select the right size for you

Ski poles are an essential element of your ski equipment and can aid your balance and turning. Selecting the right ski pole that fits your height is vital if you are to gain control on the faster more advanced ski terrains.

Ski poles were simply made of wood sticks when first used. Bamboo was a strong and light alternative used in the 1930’s before the introduction of steel. In 1958 the first aluminum pole were made, being much lighter yet strong enough for the task. Today, advanced composite materials such as carbon fibre have increased strength and remained lighter adding to the speed and agility of modern skiers.

The ski consists of a pole, a basket near the bottom to stop the pole sinking too deep and a handle complete with securing strap. To get the right length you should hold the ski pole just under the basket upside down with the handle touching the floor. The correct length is achieved when your arm makes a right angle with your forearm horizontal. Remember you will be slightly taller when you are attached to your skis.

There are differences to ski poles depending on use. The main types are:

• Alpine ski poles - fixed length, straight
• Racing ski poles - often curved to tuck behind skier when gliding
• Backcountry ski poles - telescopic to allow length adjustment to fit specific conditions
• Cross-country or Nordic ski poles - longer to allow a longer pushing action

One area of new development in ski poles is the trigger handle that allows release in case of a fall. The strap fits around the skiers glove and clips on a special trigger latch on the ski pole handle. In case of a fall the strap will detach from the pole leaving it to slide clear of the skier and hence reducing the rink of the skier getting injured by tangling with the ski pole.