The best ski poles in 2020 and how to choose them

Which company is better to buy ski poles and which are the more popular models and the best manufacturers? Alpine skiing fans ask themselves such questions when purchasing the necessary equipment. Here you need to know well the selection criteria, where it is not the popularity of the models that will be important, but the characteristics and functionality. Then it will be possible to purchase inexpensive and budget 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 balance;
• are used to accelerate during the start;
• used when accelerating during descent;
• used for overclocking on a flat surface;
• in difficult situations used for support;
• when performing the element "basic turn" with a stick prick;
• to block the pole in slalom while passing the track.

Length of ski poles

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 specific to a particular sport and characteristics with human habits. For children's ski poles, the selection criteria are not significant and are selected with the calculation of a coefficient of 0.7 per person's height.

Characteristics of materials for ski poles

In Soviet production, titanium was used for the manufacture of high-quality ski material. Modern manufacturers have almost completely abandoned its use, replacing it with carbon fiber and composite material.

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

Carbon

Expensive, but one of the most widespread and demanded materials. It can surpass alloy steel in strength, but 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 itself includes not only carbon threads of directional weaving, but also an epoxy resin as a binder.

The threads of which the carbon material is made break easily, but they are very difficult to break. Therefore, to impart the necessary strength, weaving of fibers with alternating longitudinal and transverse layers is used.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 the exact same composition with the same ingredients, but with the “wrong” weave of fibers, especially in critical areas. Therefore, not only the possibility of high technology is important for this material, but also the practical experience of the manufacturer. Therefore, responsible manufacturers carefully study and take into account even the opinions of the most sensitive users.

 

Fiberglass

The quality of the material also mainly depends on the manufacturing process. Its properties can also vary widely. Fiberglass is highly resistant to aggressive media. This material is preferred by those who want to purchase goods with high quality parameters cheaper than carbon ones, without worrying 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 can 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 the extended requirements for the tool. The main advantages of this material are: price and low fragility. They bend more than they break. Although various additives to aluminum can increase their strength.

Elements of ski poles

Basic elements and knots of a 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 release system. They are solid, characterized by greater strength and greater heat and vibration conductivity. The foam handles are light and warm, they do not vibrate well, they are fragile, the loop of the ring breaks and breaks off. Two-piece with a very comfortable grip, roughly average in performance.

Lanyard

It can be detachable with a glove attachment. Where the belt ring is connected with Velcro or a clamp. It may not be unfastened or removable, with the possibility of adjusting the diameter of the ring and without adjustment. The latter option is the most common, especially for beginner amateurs.

Kernel

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

The stiffness of the bar 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 be composed of 2 or 3 bends. There are automatic telescopic poles with a cable inside for quick adjustment of the length of the rod. And three-knee ones are convenient for transportation in luggage, they can be folded into a backpack.

Foot

The shape and construction of the foot depends on the type of skiing. There are small, medium and large diameters. The former are mainly used by athletes, also by amateurs on high-speed tracks. Medium diameter foot is multifunctional, it is better to choose it for beginners or those who like to change their riding style. Large diameter pads are used mainly for freeriding or for ski travel on roads with a large layer of snow.

Tip

Usually made of durable metal, except for children, to prevent the likelihood of injury. Special caps are used to protect the sharp points when transporting sticks. There are 2 types: a universal shape and a serrated point. Universal ones have the form of a reverse cone, they are used for skiing on various snow. Toothed cogs are used when there is a lot of icing to prevent slipping on the ice.

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

Specific elements and design

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

Trigger

This system was first developed and implemented by Leki. This is a system for automatically unfastening the strap from the ski pole handle. The strap is fixed on the arm with Velcro and buttons. The handle has a system of automatic unfastening in case of pulling out the stick, you can also unfasten using the central button. Thanks to such a system, the skier simply loses the stick, and it does not pull his hand in case of getting stuck.

Profile

For high-speed skiing disciplines, poles 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 slides more easily in strong headwinds. It is necessary to hold the stick in a position that can make a supporting movement with your hand at any time. A light stick with poor aerosistance will strongly strain the muscles of the hand. When using it, it is difficult to throw the tip forward for support. The specially developed form and construction is free from such disadvantages.

Ski Pole Manufacturers

According to buyers, manufacturers of goods for professionals are better guided 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 rods from aluminum and fiberglass. The championship 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. Thanks to the innovative release system, this type of poles has become more popular with skiers.

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

Leki Spin

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

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

• automatic unfastening system;
• there are quality folding poles.

• 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. The tips are made of carbide. The shaft of the shaft is made of 16 mm aluminum. 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 fans of downhill skiing. They have a spatial curvature of the shaft with the Airfoil construction. The rod material is HTS 6.5 aluminum with a section of 18 mm. Sizes: 120 - 135 cm.

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

• automatic unfastening system;
• lightweight and durable.

• relatively high price.

Atomic

This Austrian company was registered in 1957. And almost from the very beginning, she almost completely concentrated her production on skis and equipment for them. She set out to manufacture her products using exclusively environmentally friendly raw materials as a material. The company has fully automated its production, constantly modernizing it 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. Plastic handle, one-piece, comfortable. The length of the sticks is from 70 to 105 cm. The shaft material is 6061 T6 aluminum with a section of 14 mm. The price is about 2,000 rubles.

• wide assortment for adults and children;
• have a high level of adaptation to practical use;
• there are options with the same characteristics of different colors.

• in some models the strap falls off.

• Vantage, this model is designed for use by trail skiers and carving.
• Backland -model for racers and freeriders, performing sharp turns and difficult maneuvers.

Atomic Backland FR

Criss Benchetler contributed to this design. These are telescopic poles with an adjustment range of 110 - 130 cm. Made of aluminum alloy. It uses the FR bicycle handle. The construction includes a screwdriver for ski bindings. Carbide tip for stone protection.

Package weight - 600 grams. Price - 7 390 rubles.

• quality folding poles.

• relatively high price.

Punx

• this line is designed for lovers of park skiing. The model is used for piping.

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

Atomic Pro Carbon

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

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 brought them worldwide fame. The main focus of the company is safety, functionality and design. Today this company is one of the largest suppliers of ski products to the World Championships.

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

Komperdell Virtuoso

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

Sizes: 110 - 130 cm. Price: 2 820 rubles.

• wide assortment for adults and children;
• options with the same characteristics of different colors.
• high level of product safety.

• Not found.

Komperdell Racing Nationalteam

Very strong, yet light and incredibly thin - only 12.3 cm in diameter shaft. Made of carbon fiber, Duplo type handle. Flexible tungsten / carbide tip.

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

• high quality.

• Not found.

Komperdell Rebelution Blue / Purple

Stylish design meets high durability. Designed mainly for juniors. Made of 5083 aluminum, shaft diameter 18 cm. Mini race basket foot with logo. The tip is made with tungsten / carbide.

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

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

• tough.

Other manufacturers

Ski poles from a manufacturer such as CO.H.EN are on sale. The company was founded by the renowned skier Massimo Pastorino. The developing company has taken the direction of individuality and uniqueness of products, while using high technology.

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

One of the domestic manufacturers is STC AVANTI RS, which holds a leading position in the market of goods for ski walks and competitions. This company has established itself well, producing its ski products mainly from 100% carbon. Its design is at a high level of professional skill.

Norwegian manufacturer Swix Carbon makes carbon ski pole models. They are reinforced with ski collision and side impact protection. Designed for mass starts as well as training and competition. The handle is made of thermoplastic covered with natural cork. Recommended for use on hard tracks and competitions.

There are many quality products from "advanced" manufacturers on the modern market. Their products are in demand due to the sophistication of their production. Therefore, when purchasing ski poles, you must beware of fakes. For this, it is better to use the services of certified stores. Also, a strong decline in prices should raise 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 taught by coaches. And this applies to everything, right down to the inventory. And when they devoted several years to sports or hobbies, they themselves will teach whoever 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 still know about ski poles.

• You should not be the first to buy expensive, high-end sticks from elite manufacturers. In alpine skiing, sticks often break and get 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 between different manufacturers and types of materials to practically experience the best option.
• the length of the sticks plays a big role. It is better to use the data from the table above first. 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 won't hurt anymore, short ones can be uncomfortable.
• If the ski poles do not have an automatic release system, then it is better not to put the handles on your hands at all. To avoid injury from falling. It is better to cut them off immediately after purchasing and learn to use them without them.
• It is better for beginners not to purchase curved poles with aero effect. You also need to know how to use them. If downhill is expected, then it is better to choose sticks with a smaller shaft diameter, but it is better to use more durable ones.