Ski Pole : What is it?
| Ski poles are a pair of long thin poles usually made of metal or composite materials such as carbon fiber. Each pole has a circular basket attached to the bottom end to prevent it from sinking too deep into the snow. The top end has a pole strap that is slipped over the wrist to prevent the skier from losing it in case he falls. The pole straps are not worn all the time especially in backcountry skiing where the straps can catch on unseen branches or roots, and possibly cause wrist injury. Ski poles are used for acceleration, gaining speed, making turning techniques, and improving balance.
Ski poles are one of the most vulnerable equipment in skiing because they are susceptible to breaking. They are replaced or repaired more than any other skiing equipment. It is recommended to buy a new set of ski poles instead of repairing the broken ones. |
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Kinds of Ski Poles include the following: |
Cross-country ski poles
- Cross-country ski poles are used for gaining speed and improving balance.
- They have long lengths that enable longer thrusts.
Alpine ski poles
- Alpine ski poles share the functions of cross-country ski poles but with other added functions.
- Their poles are shorter than the cross-country ski poles. The elbows form a right angle when the poles are held at rest on the snow.
- They are used for gaining proper timing and making advanced ski turns.
- They are used for “pole planting,” the process contacting with the ground between each turn.
- They provide greater stability and acceleration when moving downhill.
Ski touring poles
- Ski touring poles are used for cruising the slopes.
- They are usually telescopic.
- They can be adjusted to suit different snow conditions or the steepness of the slope.
Curved ski poles
- Curved ski poles have a bent shape when they are in a tuck position.
- They minimize drag and wind resistance, making them more aerodynamic.
- They are used for racing and other high speed skiing disciplines such as downhill and speed skiing.
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Straps: Choose pole straps with “trigger” mechanisms. They come off automatically in case of a crash to avoid wrist injury.
Materials used: Choose ski poles made of carbon fiber. They are light yet extremely durable. They are made from synthetic composite materials that are woven before being sealed, making them flexible and wear-resistant. They are ideal for active skiers who love to ski in rough terrains.
Height: Choose ski poles proportional to your height. The height of the poles in proportion to your height depends on the type of skiing you intend to do. Get shorter ski poles for alpine skiing and longer poles for cross-country skiing.
Grip: Wear your ski gloves when buying ski poles to know if they have the right “feel” and grip. |
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