How to Choose the Right Ski Poles

One of the most common questions we get in store during the season is about ski pole length and how to choose the right option for each skier. While poles are often treated as a simple add-on, the right choice can make a real difference to comfort, balance and efficiency on snow.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about ski poles — from length and materials to key features — so you can choose a setup that actually suits how and where you ski.

Why Ski Pole Size Matters

Ski poles help you maintain rhythm, balance and timing while skiing. When they’re the correct length, your upper body stays relaxed and your movements feel natural. Poles that are too long or too short can throw off your stance, strain your shoulders and make skiing feel more tiring than it should.

Getting the size right doesn’t require expert knowledge—it just takes a simple check.

How to Find the Correct Ski Pole Length

Measuring at Home (No Poles Needed)

You can easily find your ideal ski pole length from home:

Stand upright on flat ground wearing ski boots or regular shoes.
Bend your elbow so your forearm is parallel to the floor, creating a 90-degree angle.
Measure from the ground to the top of your hand.

That measurement in centimetres is a reliable reference for choosing ski poles.

If You Already Own Ski Poles

If you already have poles, the size is usually printed on the shaft near the grip or just below it.

You can also do a quick fit check:

Turn the pole upside down.
Hold it just under the basket.
Your elbow should form roughly a 90-degree angle.

If your arm feels relaxed and balanced, the length is likely right for you.

Checking ski pole length by holding the pole upside down to form a 90-degree elbow angle

How the Right Pole Length Should Feel

Correctly sized ski poles should feel natural and easy to use. Your shoulders should stay relaxed, and pole plants should feel controlled without lifting your arms unnaturally.

If the pole feels like it’s pushing your arm upward, it’s probably too long. If you feel like you’re reaching down or crouching, it’s likely too short. The right length supports your movement rather than fighting it.

Does Skiing Style Affect Pole Choice?

Skiing style can influence pole choice slightly, but sizing fundamentals stay the same.

All-mountain and piste skiing: Standard sizing works best for most skiers.
Freeride: Some skiers prefer poles that are marginally longer for stability in variable snow, but only by a small amount.
Touring: Adjustable poles are popular, allowing shorter lengths for uphill travel and longer lengths for descents.
Racing: Poles are often sized precisely to match technique and discipline.

In most cases, your measured size remains the best starting point.

Do You Always Need Ski Poles?

You don’t always need ski poles — it depends on your experience level, the terrain you’re skiing, and what kind of skiing you’re doing.

For most alpine skiers, poles play an important role. They help with balance, rhythm and timing, especially on steeper runs, variable snow, flat sections and when skating around the resort. Pole plants also help keep your upper body stable and facing downhill while your legs do the work underneath.

That said, there are situations where skiing without poles can work. Beginners often start without them to focus on balance and basic movements, and some skiers choose to ditch poles on gentle slopes or for short, playful runs where speed and technical turns aren’t the priority.

On steeper terrain, in icy conditions, or when skiing faster and more dynamically, poles become far more than optional. They help with control, coordination and confidence — which is why most experienced skiers rely on them once the terrain gets challenging.

If you’re cruising easy runs or learning the basics, poles aren’t essential. But as soon as the terrain, speed or conditions ramp up, ski poles make a noticeable difference in how controlled and comfortable you feel on snow.

Adjustable vs Fixed-Length Ski Poles

Fixed-length poles are simple, lightweight and reliable—ideal for resort skiing and all-mountain use.

Adjustable poles offer versatility, especially for touring or mixed terrain. They allow you to fine-tune length for climbs, descents and different snow conditions, though they may be slightly heavier.

The right choice depends on how and where you ski most often.

Can You Use Hiking Poles for Skiing?

Not really. While hiking poles might seem similar, they’re not designed for snow. They usually don’t have proper baskets, so they sink too deep, and the grips and straps aren’t made for cold conditions or skiing movements.

Ski poles are built specifically for use on snow, with baskets that keep them from sinking and straps designed to support your wrist without restricting movement. If you’re skiing regularly, proper ski poles are the better and safer option.

Materials Explained

Pole material doesn’t change sizing, but it does affect feel and performance.

Aluminium: Durable and dependable, slightly heavier but very resistant to impact.
Carbon: Lightweight and stiff, helping reduce arm fatigue over long days.
Composite: A balance of weight, flex and durability.

Choose materials based on skiing style and personal preference rather than length.

Grips, Straps and Baskets: What to Look For

Comfort and control matter just as much as length.

A well-shaped grip should feel secure with gloves on.
Adjustable straps support your wrist without restricting movement.
Basket size can vary depending on terrain, with larger baskets offering better support in softer snow.

How Do You Adjust Ski Pole Straps Properly?

Every ski pole strap is slightly different depending on the brand and design, but the general principle is the same.

Slide your hand up through the strap from underneath, then grip the handle. This allows the strap to sit naturally around your wrist and support your hand when planting the pole, rather than hanging from your fingers.

When adjusted correctly, the strap should feel secure but relaxed. It should support your wrist without pulling down, cutting in, or restricting movement. You shouldn’t need to grip the pole tightly at all times — the strap is there to take some of the load and reduce hand and forearm fatigue.

If the strap feels uncomfortable, digs into your wrist, or forces your hand into an awkward position, it’s likely adjusted too tight or not sitting correctly.

Common Mistakes When Buying Ski Poles

Some of the most common errors include:

Buying longer poles “for stability”.
Copying someone else’s size without checking fit.
Ignoring how the poles actually feel in hand.

A quick fit check can prevent all of these.