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Ski touring poles
Ski touring poles are an essential piece of equipment for mountain enthusiasts who practice off-piste skiing or ski touring. They not only provide extra support when ascending and descending, but also play a crucial role in terms of safety and performance. This detailed guide is designed to help advanced skiers choose the poles best suited to their specific needs. Find our best ski touring poles and other ski touring equipment.
Understanding Key Features
The choice of materials is paramount in the selection of ski touring poles. The most common options include aluminum and carbon:
- Aluminum: Aluminum is prized for its strength and durability. It is capable of withstanding high stresses, which is ideal for ski touring where equipment is often put to the test. However, it can be slightly heavier than carbon.
- Carbon: Carbon poles are renowned for their lightness and shock-absorbing properties, offering greater comfort on long days in the mountains. Carbon is also very rigid, which can be an advantage in terms of energy transfer, but can also be less tolerant of very violent direct impacts.
Adjustable length and comfort of use
The ability to adjust pole length is crucial in ski touring. On ascents, longer poles provide better propulsion, while on descents, shorter poles offer greater stability. A reliable adjustment system that's easy to use with gloves is therefore essential. Systems such as the PowerLock or ratchet systems ensure fast, secure attachment.
Handles must offer good grip and be comfortable even after hours of use. Materials such as EVA foam or cork provide a good grip while reducing ice formation on your frozen hands in cold weather.
Criteria according to your Practice Type
For ski mountaineering, where fast-climbing performance is essential, opt for ultralight carbon models with a fixed length if you're looking for speed and efficiency.
On the other hand, if you're a classic skier, opt for adjustable models that combine lightness and durability to ensure comfort during long days on snow.
Focus on Care & Durability
To ensure that your equipment retains its optimum performance over time, you should pay particular attention to regular maintenance after each use: clean them thoroughly, especially after skiing on rocky or icy terrain.
And don't forget that prompt replacement of any worn parts contributes greatly not only to performance, but also to your safety during your winter adventures!
To explore our complete range of products for outdoor sports such asmountaineering, please visit our adjacent categories!
