Alpine ski pole size guide

Choosing the right size of alpine ski poles

The snow is falling, and you can't wait to hit the slopes! You've got all your gear, but there's one last thing you need: ski poles. The Speck-Sports team has put together this short guide to help you choose the right alpine ski poles (size, materials, features, etc.).

The importance of choosing alpine ski poles that are the right size for you

While poles are not necessary for beginner skiers, they are essential for more experienced skiers. Poles give you better support and balance, promote a dynamic rhythm, and can sometimes even relieve muscle and joint strain. In short, they help you improve your technique and are therefore essential for skiing well. Without this accessory, you won't be able to perform the famous "pole plant" technique.

Before choosing your ski poles, it is very important to know the right size for you.

How to choose the right size ski poles?

There is a very simple technique to find out whether the poles are suitable for your height or not. Simply turn them upside down (tip up, handle down). Then stand up straight and hold the poles at the basket. Your arm should form a 90° angle. If the angle is greater, the pole is too small. Conversely, if your arm rises, the pole is too big.

Size conversion chart

The Speck-Sports team offers you its size chart for alpine ski poles. It will help you find the length of poles that corresponds to your height in meters.

Structure of an alpine ski pole

A pole is made up of several parts. These include the strap, the grip, the shaft (rod or section), the basket, and the tip. Once you have found the right size of poles for you, it is worth considering the choice of these different elements. The choice of materials for your poles depends on how you intend to use them.

The strap

All poles are equipped with a wrist strap. This wraps around your hand and is positioned around your wrist to prevent you from losing the poles if you fall. There are different types of wrist straps:

- The classic strap with strap: this model is the most common. It is ideal for regular use, mainly on the slopes.
- The safety strap: a higher-end option, this type of strap offers many advantages, particularly in terms of comfort and safety. In the event of a violent impact, the strap breaks away to prevent injury.

The handle

The handle is a very important factor to consider, as it allows you to hold the pole securely in your hand and adds a touch of comfort. There are no specific rules for choosing a handle. Simply put on your gloves and hold the poles to see if you feel comfortable with the handle.

There are different types of materials for handles (foam, rubber, plastic, cork, dual material). Once again, your choice depends on how it feels.

- 4-finger grip: more suitable for people with fairly large hands.
- Index finger + 3-finger grip: this grip is universal. Smaller hands are more comfortable with this type of grip.

The shaft

The central element of the pole, the shaft can be made of different materials. The most common are aluminum, carbon fiber, and composite materials. Each of these has different properties—strength, resistance, lightness—which influence the pole.

- Aluminum: used for most ski poles, aluminum is versatile. Today, there are different types of indices on the market indicating the strength of aluminum: 5083, 5086, and 7000. The lower the index, the lighter it is. Conversely, aluminum is heavier and more resistant if the index is high.
- Carbon fiber: a lightweight material, carbon effectively dampens vibrations. Carbon poles are strong, lightweight, and rigid, but on average they are more expensive than aluminum poles.
- Composite materials: it is possible to combine at least two different materials, each with their own advantages. This makes it possible to have a pole that is both very strong and lightweight.

The basket

Located at the bottom of the pole, the basket prevents the pole from sinking into the snow. The basket is therefore very important, as it controls the impact on the snow. There are different types of baskets.

Small diameter (approximately 50 mm): this basket is found on most pole models and is ideal for skiers who enjoy speed on the slopes.
Medium diameter (approx. 80 mm): more versatile, this basket is designed for skiers who want to vary their skiing style.
- Large diameter (approx. 120 mm): recommended for freeriders, the large diameter basket prevents skiers from sinking into the snow.

Telescopic ski poles

Telescopic poles are made up of several sections, allowing you to adjust the length of the pole to the nearest centimeter. Very practical, they are easy to carry and store, but also more fragile than traditional poles. Versatile, they can be used in both winter and summer, especially when hiking. For downhill skiing, simply fit the telescopic poles with wider baskets and combine them with downhill ski boots for greater comfort and optimal control on the slopes.

Choosing the right downhill ski poles

In summary, it is very important to understand that ski poles are essential for skiing well. They allow you to improve your technique, provide balance and better support, and offer stability. Your ski poles must also be well suited to your height in order to provide you with the best possible support. The different materials used to make the parts of the pole must also be taken into account, as each of them has different properties. It is up to you to determine, based on your skiing level, which ones are most important to you. You can then decide whether you are looking for lightness or rather strength, resistance, etc.

Meet the Speck team in store or on the website. Take advantage of the wealth of advice offered by our professionals to help you choose the most suitable pair of alpine ski poles.