Find Your Ski Pole Size
Ski pole size is essential for proper balance and control while skiing. The correct size depends on your height and skiing style. Here’s a general guide to help you find the right size ski poles based on your height:
Ski Pole Size Chart
| Height | Pole Size (in cm) |
|---|---|
| Under 4’8″ | 90 cm |
| 4’8″ – 5’0″ | 95 cm |
| 5’0″ – 5’2″ | 100 cm |
| 5’2″ – 5’4″ | 105 cm |
| 5’4″ – 5’6″ | 110 cm |
| 5’6″ – 5’8″ | 115 cm |
| 5’8″ – 6’0″ | 120 cm |
| 6’0″ – 6’2″ | 125 cm |
| 6’2″ – 6’4″ | 130 cm |
| Over 6’4″ | 135 cm+ |
How to Determine the Correct Ski Pole Size
To find the correct ski pole size, you can also use the following method:
- Stand up straight, with your arms bent at a 90-degree angle.
- Flip the pole upside down, holding the grip.
- Place the tip of the pole on the floor and check that your elbow is at a 90-degree angle or slightly more.
This method gives a more personalized fit for optimal skiing performance.
Considerations for Skiing Style:
- Downhill (Alpine) Skiing: Standard sizing should work well for most recreational skiers.
- Freestyle Skiing or Skiing Terrain Parks: Shorter poles may be more suitable, as they are easier to maneuver and less likely to get caught.
- Cross-Country Skiing: Cross-country poles are generally longer than alpine ski poles, typically coming in sizes of 140 cm or more depending on height.
General Ski Pole Length (Alpine Skiing)
The recommended length for ski poles can be calculated by considering your height. A common rule of thumb for alpine skiing is:
- Stand upright with your arms at your sides.
- Flip the pole upside down (with the basket near your hand) and grab the pole just under the basket.
- The angle of your elbow should be about 90 degrees. If your elbow bends too much or not enough, adjust your pole length accordingly.
Here’s a chart for alpine skiing pole lengths based on skier height
| Skier Height | Recommended Ski Pole Length |
|---|---|
| 4’10” (147 cm) | 100 cm |
| 5’0″ (152 cm) | 105 cm |
| 5’2″ (157 cm) | 110 cm |
| 5’4″ (163 cm) | 115 cm |
| 5’6″ (167 cm) | 120 cm |
| 5’8″ (173 cm) | 125 cm |
| 5’10” (178 cm) | 130 cm |
| 6’0″ (183 cm) | 135 cm |
| 6’2″ (188 cm) | 140 cm |
| 6’4″ (193 cm) | 145 cm |
Ski Poles for Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing requires different pole lengths, as they are typically longer than alpine poles to accommodate a more upright stance and longer stride. The general recommendation for cross-country skiing is based on height and discipline.
| Skier Height | Classic Skiing (Pole Length) | Skate Skiing (Pole Length) |
|---|---|---|
| 4’10” (147 cm) | 110 cm | 120 cm |
| 5’0″ (152 cm) | 115 cm | 125 cm |
| 5’2″ (157 cm) | 120 cm | 130 cm |
| 5’4″ (163 cm) | 125 cm | 135 cm |
| 5’6″ (167 cm) | 130 cm | 140 cm |
| 5’8″ (173 cm) | 135 cm | 145 cm |
| 5’10” (178 cm) | 140 cm | 150 cm |
| 6’0″ (183 cm) | 145 cm | 155 cm |
| 6’2″ (188 cm) | 150 cm | 160 cm |
| 6’4″ (193 cm) | 155 cm | 165 cm |
Freestyle Skiing & Powder Skiing (Longer Poles)
Freestyle and powder skiing often require a slightly longer pole for balance and maneuvering, especially when navigating through deep snow or performing tricks.
| Skier Height | Recommended Pole Length |
|---|---|
| 4’10” (147 cm) | 110 cm |
| 5’0″ (152 cm) | 115 cm |
| 5’2″ (157 cm) | 120 cm |
| 5’4″ (163 cm) | 125 cm |
| 5’6″ (167 cm) | 130 cm |
| 5’8″ (173 cm) | 135 cm |
| 5’10” (178 cm) | 140 cm |
| 6’0″ (183 cm) | 145 cm |
| 6’2″ (188 cm) | 150 cm |
| 6’4″ (193 cm) | 155 cm |
Adjustable Ski Poles
Some skiers prefer adjustable ski poles, which allow for changes in length depending on snow conditions, terrain, and type of skiing. They generally offer a range from about 90 cm to 140 cm, so you can tailor them to your needs.
Choosing the Right Pole Length
- Alpine Skiing (downhill skiing): Use the standard height-based ski pole length.
- Cross-Country Skiing: Use a slightly longer pole (usually 10–15 cm longer than your alpine ski pole).
- Freestyle Skiing or Powder Skiing: Choose a slightly longer pole, especially for better control in deep snow or when jumping.
- Adjustable Poles: Consider these for versatile use in varying conditions or when sharing poles with others.
Make sure to check if your poles have properly sized grips, as well as the correct strap positioning, to ensure comfort and safety while skiing.