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Alpine ski poles
When it comes to top-level skiing, every piece of equipment must be chosen with care to optimize performance and guarantee safety. Ski poles, often underestimated, play a crucial role in a skier's control and technique. This detailed guide will provide you with the essential criteria to consider when buying ski poles, adapted to the requirements of advanced and professional athletes. Find out more about our ski equipment.
Ski pole materials and construction
The choice of material is crucial to the performance of ski poles. The main options include aluminum, carbon and a combination of the two.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and durable, aluminum is widely used for ski poles. It offers excellent value for money, resists impact well and is suitable for a variety of skiing disciplines. However, for a top-level athlete, aluminum can sometimes lack the lightness and flexibility required for peak performance.
- Carbon: Carbon poles are ideal for competitors and experienced skiers because of their light weight and ability to absorb vibrations. Carbon allows better energy transmission and less fatigue, which is crucial for long days of competition or intensive training.
- Hybrid: Combining the advantages of aluminum and carbon, hybrid poles are both robust and lightweight. They are an excellent option for those seeking a balance between performance and durability.
How to choose pole length
Pole length should be chosen according to the height of the skier and the type of skiing practised. Incorrect measurement can affect posture efficiency and therefore overall performance.
- Piste: Poles should allow the skier to maintain a comfortable 90-degree elbow when the tips touch the ground.
- Cross-country: Poles should be longer, generally up to shoulder height, even to the chin, to promote efficient pushing in classic skating style.
- Freeride or off-piste:slightly shorter poles are preferable to facilitate maneuverability on uneven terrain.
Hand strap details
Handle details must offer optimum grip comfort even in cold, wet conditions. Materials such as foam rubber are preferred to provide good grip.
- Adjustable wrist straps:High-level athletes need ergonomic adjustable wrist straps that allow quick release in the event of a fall, while providing sufficient hand-grip support.
- Ergonomic grips:Some specially designed grips adapt to hand shape, reducing fatigue and increasing control.
Essential accessory tips
- Washers:Select washer size according to terrain: larger washers are preferable for powder snow, while smaller washers are ideal for groomed slopes.
Investing in Leki, Black Crows, or Scott, all market leaders, guarantees superior quality equipment.
To optimize your experience on the slopes, don't forget to explore our adjacent categories such as Pack skis fixation, Ski alpin, Fixation skis. Every detail counts to make every descent an optimal experience!
