How Big is a Ski Pole?

Becoming a successful skier will require one to use the right equipment. This is why correctly choosing a ski pole is imperative to a skier’s performance. Getting an ill-fitting pole will definitely jeopardize not only your performance but also your own safety on the slopes. You don’t want poles that will offset your stance especially when making a downhill run.

Getting the Right Ski Pole Size and Dimensions

Obviously, there are a lot of different sizes and dimensions of these poles. Here’s a simple method how a skier can figure out the right length of a pole they will need. The first step is to place make 90 degree angles using your arms while keeping them to your sides. Note that the lower arms should remain out in your front positioned as if they are holding poles. The upper arms should touch the sides of your body.

The lower arms should remain parallel to the floor while your fists make fists as if gripping actual poles. A mirror will be very helpful to make sure you’ve got the right position. Another way to check is to have a friend check if you are making the right posture. Remember to make the appropriate adjustments when necessary.

Have your friend measure the distance from the floor all the way up to your thumb. If you don’t have someone to take the measurements for you, then hold your thumb against a wall and mark where it is positioned while you are in the aforementioned stance. You can use a pencil or a tape to mark where the top of your thumb is placed.

The length you will get from your thumb to the floor surface will be the appropriate ski pole size and dimensions that you will need. Note that you need to add about two inches to the distance you measured since you still have to take into account of the fact that you will be a bit taller when you wear your skis and your boots while holding your poles.

Pole Measuring Chart

Yet another way to measure the right pole size and dimensions is to use a measuring chart. A measuring chart will recommend certain pole lengths according to skier height. Do take note that this chart will only give you an approximate pole length. This means that you still need to try out a recommended pole just to make sure that you have the size.

In case a ski pole makes you reach out forward, this means that the pole you’re holding is too short. On the other hand, in case you feel unwieldy or kind of awkward while holding a pole, this means that the pole you’re holding is too long. You may ask the clerk at the store to replace the pole in such instances.