Ski Poles

Stand in your ski boots with fists at your sides; the pole tip should touch the ground while your elbow sits at about a 90-degree angle. Poles are sold in 2-inch (5 cm) increments and include kids sizes, so pick the nearest size for reliable downhill and all-mountain performance.

For backcountry touring you’ll want adjustable options like 2-piece, 3-piece, collapsible, or Z-pole styles so you can shorten for uphill skinning and lengthen for descents. Models such as the Black Diamond Expedition series offer 3-piece adjustability and pack down small for splitboarding and variable terrain.

Carbon shafts are noticeably lighter, typically 10–16 ounces per pair and about 25–30% lighter than aluminum, which can reduce arm fatigue on long tours. Aluminum alloys like 6061 or 7075 stand up better to crashes, so many skiers pick carbon for weight savings and aluminum for durability.

Large powder baskets increase flotation in deep snow, while smaller or standard baskets limit sink and perform better on firm or groomed conditions. There are also niche options like aerodynamic racing baskets, but most skiers switch between a powder basket for deep days and a small basket for resort runs.

Adjustable poles let you shorten for steep uphill skinning and lengthen for confident downhill turns, with telescoping mechanisms providing the needed range. Styles like the Armada Carbon Adjustable and other 3-piece or Z-pole designs pack down small for splitboarding and easy carry across varied terrain.