How long should ski poles be? Depending on use!

First things first: as with the choice of skis themselves, the choice of ski poles also depends on the area of use. Freeriders need a different pole length than racers. The reason is quite simple and can be observed every year in the sports program: To push yourself well at the start in a giant slalom, a longer pole is advisable - the power can work better this way due to the longer lever. On the other hand, shorter poles tend to be used when skiing down a mogul slope, as the skier moves more dynamically and is less stretched. Before we explain how to calculate the ski pole length, we want to give you an overview of the areas of use - because this is essentially related to the choice of ski pole size.

Alpine ski poles

Alpine ski poles are primarily intended to provide a comfortable effect on the piste that is adapted to your skiing style. The poles are mainly used to improve balance on the descent. Ski poles can also be very helpful for the correct timing when making short turns, for example.

For those who like to go fast, slightly longer poles are more suitable - these allow you to push off with your arms. Racing equipment therefore often includes very light ski poles with a curved shaft.

Ski poles for children

Ski poles for children are not only shorter, they also differ in other aspects. The tube is usually thinner and the grips are narrower so that children's delicate hands can hold the poles well. The point at which ski poles for children are purchased depends entirely on the ability of the young skier. When the child has internalized the essential movements of skiing and has already developed the necessary motor skills, such as not being overwhelmed when riding the lift with poles, then the right time has come.

Touring ski poles & how long ski poles should be for freeriders

Touring ski poles are usually telescopic poles, which means they can be individually adjusted in size. During the ascent, many people find a longer pole comfortable, which is of course always individually adjusted to the respective slope inclination. If you need to use your hands, for example when using ice axes, telescopic poles are no problem as they can be easily attached to your rucksack thanks to their adjustable size. The poles can then be shortened again for the descent. There is also a trend towards telescopic poles for freeriding, as they are ideal for negotiating moguls, deep snow or halfpipes..

Length of the ski poles: Two ways to determine

Your height is crucial when calculating the size of your ski poles. There are two ways to determine the correct size, one is theoretical and the other is based on a practical test.

1. calculate ski pole length with the formula

Not only Pythagoras knew that formulas can be very practical to make life easier in many ways, no: ski racers also use a formula to determine the length of their ski poles:

Height in cm x 0.7 = length of the ski pole in cm

No calculator to hand? The following table also gives you an overview of the pole lengths available on the market and for which body size they are suitable:

The result of the formula should not be set in stone, because of course individual aspects also play a role: upper body length, leg length, skiing style or the skier's personal preference. However, the result can certainly serve as an initial guide; the practical test provides more information about the correct pole length.

Freeriders can subtract approx. 5 cm from the recommended pole length! If the poles are used exclusively in the park, then even very short models are purchased: 1-meter ski poles are part of a freestyler's standard equipment in the park.

2. the practical test for the right ski pole length

If you want to test the length yourself directly on the model, you should carry out the test with ski boots and skis on your legs. Turn the pole upside down so that the handle is on the ground. Hold the pole below the plate in your hand and hold it in front of your upper body. The part above the plate is not needed for the measurement because it sinks into the snow anyway and is therefore not counted as part of the length of the pole.

If your upper arm forms a right angle with your forearm, then the pole is the right length for you. Alternatively, you can just use your forearm as a guide, if it is horizontal to the ground, then the size is ideal for you.

-> Expert tip: Try out the shorter or longer model, you will see how much difference a few centimetres can make!