Many novice skiers do not attach much importance to the choice of ski poles, while they are a very important component of downhill skiing. How to choose the right ski poles?
Instructions
Step 1
Don't buy expensive sticks. Remember that sticks are consumables. Especially when learning to ride in the early stages. Do not impose special requirements on the materials from which the ski poles are made. The main thing is that they are strong, do not break or bend when dropped. Buy sticks made from aluminum. Such sticks have the lowest price and in case of breakage you can replace it with a new one with minimal losses for your wallet.
Step 2
When choosing ski poles, choose the right length. This is the key to safe driving and correct riding technique. To adjust the length of the ski pole, put on your ski boots, which you usually use for skiing on the slope, stand up straight and take the stick by the handle. The angle of your arm at the elbow should be 90 degrees (another criterion is when you hold the stick, your forearm should be parallel to the ground). This is a standard scheme for selecting a ski pole in length. But experts recommend choosing sticks that are five, seven centimeters larger. This approach is explained by the fact that the stick sinks a few centimeters in the snow while rolling.
Step 3
Don't buy curved poles unless you're downhill. The bend of such a stick is designed to remove the tips from the body, and thereby reduce air resistance. When riding on cleared tracks, for your own pleasure, such nuances will be unnecessary and will lead to discomfort while riding (and to unnecessary expenses).
Step 4
When skiing on prepared trails, choose poles with small ring diameters. The rings will not get in the way or cling to your ski boots. But when riding on virgin soil, such rings will not help. Here, a larger diameter is needed so that the stick does not fall into the snow.
Step 5
Remember that in addition to the listed characteristics, any stick has an index of strength and elasticity. The higher the number of the stick series, the higher the quality of the aluminum and, accordingly, the strength of the ski pole. The HTS series is aimed at advanced skiers, while the amateurs can opt for the TS series.
