The best ski poles in 2022 and how to choose them

Which company is better to buy ski poles and which are the more popular models and the best manufacturers? Such questions are asked by lovers of skiing, acquiring the necessary equipment. Here you need to know the selection criteria well, where it will be important not the popularity of the models, but the characteristics and functionality. Then it will be possible to purchase inexpensive and budgetary ski poles, knowing what to look for in order to avoid mistakes when choosing.

What are ski poles used for?

• support the correct stance of the skier;
• maintain balance and equilibrium;
• used to accelerate during launch;
• used when accelerating during descent;
• used for acceleration on a flat surface;
• in difficult situations, they are used for support;
• when performing the “basic turn” element with a stick prick;
• to block the pole in slalom while passing the course.

ski pole length

When choosing the length of the sticks, you can navigate the table:

Skier Height	160	165	170	175	180	185	190
Stick length	105-110	110-115	115-120	120-125	125-130	130-135	135

Tall athletes use individual sizes that are characteristic of a particular sport and features with human habits. For children's ski poles, the selection criteria are not significant and are selected with a coefficient of 0.7 per person's height.

Material characteristics of ski poles

In Soviet production, titanium was used to make high-quality ski material. Modern manufacturers have almost completely abandoned its use, replacing it with carbon and composite material.

Modern production can produce ski poles from 12 different materials, including metals and alloys. The most common are 4 types of materials.

Carbon

Expensive, but one of the most common and sought-after materials.It can surpass alloyed steel in strength, but is much lighter. The price and quality depends on the manufacturing technology and the additives used. Even parts with 100% carbon content can contain various impurities. The thing is that the composition of carbon fiber itself includes not only carbon threads of directional weaving, but also an epoxy resin is a binding component.

The threads that make up the carbon material break easily, but they are very hard to break. Therefore, to give the necessary strength, weaving of fibers is used with alternating longitudinal and transverse layers. This affects the complexity of manufacturing, as well as the price and quality of the finished material.

A ski pole made using a high-tech process can be much stronger than one made from exactly the same composition with the same ingredients, but with the "wrong" weave of the fibers, especially in critical places. Therefore, it is important for this material not only the possibility of high technologies, but also the practical experience of the manufacturer. Therefore, responsible manufacturers carefully study and take into account even the opinions of the most scrupulous users.

 

fiberglass

The quality of the material also depends mainly on the manufacturing process. Its properties can also vary widely. Fiberglass is highly resistant to aggressive environments. This material is preferred by those who want to purchase goods with high quality parameters cheaper than carbon ones, while not caring about their storage conditions.

Composite material

These are composite materials that include various combinations of substances.The composition of ski poles made of composite material may include carbon, graphite, aluminum, various plastics and epoxy resins. They are characterized by low fragility even in the most severe frosts.

Aluminum

Although the production of aluminum is very energy intensive, it is still the cheapest material. Therefore, such sticks are purchased by novice users who do not care about advanced tool requirements. The main advantages of this material are: price and low level of fragility. They bend more than they break. Although various additives to aluminum can increase their strength.

Elements of ski poles

The main elements and components of the ski pole

A pen

It is characterized by such parameters as thermal conductivity, the degree of vibration transmission and the presence of a "trigger" - an automatic unfastening system. They are solid, characterized by greater strength and greater heat and vibration conductivity. Foam handles are light and warm, do not conduct vibration well, they are fragile, break and the loop of the ring breaks off. Two-component with a very comfortable grip, have about the average position in terms of characteristics.

Lanyard

It happens detachable with an adaptation to the glove. Where the belt ring is connected with Velcro or a clamp. It can be not unfastened and not removable, with the possibility of adjusting the diameter of the ring and without adjustment. The latter option is the most common, especially for beginners.

Kernel

Its characteristics depend on the material of manufacture. Important characteristics are strength, brittleness, specific gravity, thermal resistance, vibration conductivity, aerodynamic performance.

The degree of rigidity of the rod is determined by 4 or 6 units. The first numbers are suitable for beginners and amateurs, the latter are used only by athletes for training and competition.

Telescopic rods can consist of 2 or 3 knees. There are automatic telescopic sticks with a cable inside for quick adjustment of the length of the rod. And the three-knees are convenient when transported in luggage, they can be folded into a backpack.

foot

The shape and design of the foot depends on the type of skiing. There are small, medium and large sizes. The former are used mainly by athletes, also by amateurs on high-speed tracks. The medium diameter foot is multifunctional, it is better to choose it for beginners or those who like to change the style of riding. Large diameter paws are used mainly for freeride or for ski trips on roads with a large thickness of snow.

Tip

Usually made of durable metal, except for children, to prevent the likelihood of injury. To protect sharp tips during transportation of sticks, special caps are used. There are 2 types: universal form and in the form of a jagged tip. Universal have the form of a reverse cone, are used for skiing on various snow. Toothed ones are used if there is a lot of icing, to prevent slipping on ice.

Some manufacturers make tungsten/carbide tips with the required quality specifications.

Specific elements and design

Some ski poles may contain special attachments or have distinctive shapes and designs.

Trigger

Leki was the first to develop and implement this system.This is a system for automatically unfastening the strap from the handle of the ski pole. The strap is attached to the hand with Velcro and buttons. The handle has an automatic release system in case the stick is pulled out, you can also unfasten it using the central button. Thanks to this system, the skier simply loses the stick, and it does not pull his hand in case of a jam.

Profile

For high-speed disciplines of alpine skiing, sticks with an aerodynamic profile are used. It assumes a certain shape of the stick, providing the convenience of using the stick at high speeds and headwinds. The curved position of the stick glides more easily in strong headwinds. It is necessary to hold the stick in a position capable of making a support movement with the hand at any time. A light, with poor air resistance stick will greatly strain the muscles of the hand. When using it, it is difficult to throw the tip forward for support. The specially designed shape and design is free from such shortcomings.

ski pole manufacturers

According to buyers, manufacturers of goods for professionals are better oriented in the necessary characteristics and produce goods that are more convenient and adapted to this type of operation. A brief description of companies with a narrow specialization in the production and manufacture of ski equipment is offered.

Leki

The founder of the German company Leki, Karl Lenhart, began his small-scale production with the manufacture of ski pole handles. Later, his firm began making aluminum and fiberglass rods. The superiority in the manufacture of fiberglass ski poles belongs to this company, as well as the trigger.

In the 90s, Leki Sport Carbon ski poles became available to Russians in full, which were appreciated by users with dignity. Thanks to the innovative release system, this type of pole has become more popular among skiers.

Another advantage of this brand is the Shark Trigger strap, which automatically tightens when you press a special button, securely fixing when released.

Leki Spin

Lightweight and durable telescopic ski poles with clip folding system. The type of lock is Super Lock. The product is equipped with soft handles and a lanyard, the handles are made of porous material. Trigger System 1. Carbide tips, flexible for a soft grip. The shaft of the rod is made of HTS 5.5 aluminum, resistant to heavy loads, diameters - 16/14 mm. The surface is lacquered and wear-resistant with a beautiful design. Nozzle type "boot" Power Grip. Removable rings included.

Maximum length - 130 cm, folded - 1 meter. Weight - 440 grams. The average price is 3,900 rubles.

• automatic release system;
• there are high-quality folding sticks.

• relatively high price.

Leki Racing SL

These ski poles are designed for juniors. The design provides the highest quality aerodynamic properties. Ergonomic handle Trigger S. Tips made of carbide. The shaft of the rod is made of aluminum 16 mm. Includes removable Alpine (Racing) rings.

Weight - 224 grams. The average price is 4,500 rubles.

• universal for juniors;
• lungs.

• relatively high price.

Leki Super G

Ski poles for athletes and lovers of downhill skiing.They have a spatial curvature of the shaft with an Airfoil construction. The rod material is HTS 6.5 aluminum with a section of 18 mm. Dimensions: 120 - 135 cm.

Weight - 253 grams. The average price is 7,500 rubles.

• automatic release system;
• light and durable.

• relatively high price.

Atomic

This Austrian company was registered in 1957. And almost since its inception, it has almost completely concentrated its production on skis and equipment for them. She took a course to produce her products, using only environmentally friendly raw materials as a material. The company has fully automated its production, constantly upgrading to meet the needs of consumers and athletes.

• redster - this model is universal, it includes the Classic and Skintec models. This series is actively used by skiers with various sports training, as well as beginners.

AJ5005354

Ski poles for juniors. The handle is made of plastic, one-piece, comfortable. The length of the sticks is from 70 to 105 cm. The material of the shaft is aluminum of the brand 6061 T6 with a section of 14 mm. The price is approximately 2,000 rubles.

• a wide range for adults and children;
• have a high level of adaptation to practical application;
• there are variants with the same characteristics of different color schemes.

• strap falls off on some models.

• Vantage, this model is designed for use by downhill skiers and for carving.
• backland- model for racers and freeriders performing tight turns and difficult maneuvers.

Atomic Backland FR

Chriss Benchetler contributed to this design. These are telescopic poles with an adjustment range of 110 - 130 cm.Made from aluminum alloy. It uses an FR bike grip. A screwdriver for ski bindings is built into the design. Carbide tip for stone protection.

Packed weight - 600 grams. The price is 7,390 rubles.

• quality folding sticks.

• relatively high price.

Punx

• This line is designed for lovers of park riding. The model is used for piping.

The length of the sticks depends on the model and height of the consumer and is indicated in the descriptions for the device. You can navigate the general table above.

Atomic Pro Carbon

Ski pole for professionals and advanced amateurs. Made of carbon fiber with a 2K cork handle. Lanyard made of reinforced material strength. The stick has a running foot with a pin made of high-strength tungsten.

Weight - 190 grams. Estimated price 5 190 rubles.

• very strong and durable.

not found.

Komperdell Schnapsstock

The Austrian company Komperdell Schnapsstock has been producing ski poles since 1922, the quality of which has made them world famous. The main direction of the company was safety, functionality and design. Today this company is one of the largest suppliers of ski products for the World Championships.

The product range includes a flask stick with a 200 ml reservoir for spirits and a special funnel.

Komperdell Virtuoso

Stylish and practical ski poles made of aluminum 5083, diameter 18 cm. Two-component handle. Powder strap lanyard. The tip is made of high quality tungsten/carbide.

Dimensions: 110 - 130 cm. Price: 2,820 rubles.

• a wide range for adults and children;
• options with the same characteristics of different color schemes.
• high level of product safety.

• Not found.

Komperdell Racing National team

Very strong, at the same time light and incredibly thin - only 12.3 cm in diameter shaft. Made of carbon, Duplo type handle. Flexible tip made of tungsten/carbide material.

The average price in Moscow stores is 14,190 rubles.

• quality.

• Not found.

Komperdell Rebelution Blue/Purple

Stylish design combined with high durability. Designed primarily for juniors. Made from 5083 aluminium, shaft diameter 18 cm. Foot mini race basket with logo. The tip is made from tungsten/carbide.

The average price in Moscow stores is 2,800 rubles.

• a wide range for adults and children;
• options with the same characteristics of different colors;
• the balance is shifted to the handle.

• hard.

Other manufacturers

On sale there are ski poles from a manufacturer such as CO.H.EN. The company was founded by the famous skier Massimo Pastorino. The developing company took the direction of the individuality and uniqueness of products, while using high manufacturability.

Another high-quality manufacturer is the Russian company Stayer, which specialized in the production of sportswear. It is distinguished by technological developments and a high positive quality-price ratio.

One of the domestic manufacturers was the company STC AVANTI RS, which occupies a leading position in the market of goods for ski trips and competitions.This company has proven itself well, releasing its ski products mainly from 100% carbon fiber. Its design is at a high level of professional craftsmanship.

Norwegian manufacturer Swix Carbon makes carbon ski poles. They are reinforced with protection against collisions with skis and against side impacts. Designed for mass start, as well as training and competition. The handle is made of thermoplastic, which is covered with natural cork. It is recommended to use on hard tracks and competitions.

There are many high-quality products of "advanced" manufacturers on the modern market. Their products are in demand due to the sophistication of the production of their products. Therefore, when purchasing ski poles, you must beware of fakes. To do this, it is better to use the services of stores that have a certificate. Also, a strong price reduction should arouse suspicion. The store will never sell branded products at heavily discounted prices. If you need a cheap product, then it is better to purchase cheap products from the relevant manufacturers than a fake.

Recommendations for beginner skiers

Athletes are trained by coaches. And this applies to everything, down to inventory. And when they have devoted several years to sports or hobbies, they themselves will teach anyone you want. But for beginners, sometimes even knowing a simple little thing can help avoid many mistakes and failures. Therefore, a few tips for beginners to still know exactly about ski poles.

• You should not be the first to buy expensive high-end sticks from elite manufacturers. In skiing, poles are often broken and lost. It is better to start with simple, cheap ones with a large margin of safety. Gradually choosing a certain line for yourself.It is better to alternate different manufacturers and types of materials in order to practically feel the best option.
• the length of the sticks plays a big role. First, it is better to use the data from the table above. The length of the stick is usually chosen in this way - they turn it over and take it in the hand between the foot and the tip, resting the handle on the floor. The arm at the elbow should have a 90% angle. A few centimeters will no longer hurt, short ones can be uncomfortable.
• If ski poles do not have an automatic release system, then it is better not to put handles on your hands at all. To avoid injury from a fall. It is better to cut them off immediately after purchase and learn how to use them without them.
• For beginners, it is better not to purchase curved sticks with an aero effect. You still need to know how to use them. If you are going to go downhill, then it is better to choose sticks with a smaller shaft diameter, but it is better to use stronger ones.