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A Comprehensive Guide to Selecting Cross Country Ski Poles
Ski poles for cross country skiing are integral to the sport. It's vital to remember the diverse poling techniques involved in classic cross country and skate skiing while selecting poles. This guide will explore pole length, material, grips, tips, and more.
Should you already grasp the particulars of XC poles, feel free to peruse our complete range of cross country ski poles. Otherwise, continue reading to acquaint yourself with crucial aspects to consider when selecting cross country ski poles.
Overview
Overview
Determining Cross Country Ski Pole Sizes: The Correct Length for Me
The key to picking out cross country poles is ensuring they correspond with your height and skiing style. Proper pole length reflects aligning pole size with your height, alongside taking into account your cross country skiing approach.
Appropriate Nordic ski pole sizing is crucial as it impacts power transfer, comfort, and endurance. Poles that are overly long might strain shoulders and arms, while those that are too short may lead to excessive forward leaning, reducing power transfer and balance.
The recommended lengths for skate and classic ski poles differ due to their distinct poling styles. Classic skiing poles are generally shorter than skate skiing poles, due to valid reasons.
Techniques like the classic double poling require skiers to plant the poles solidly into the ground before them. This is achieved by leaning the upper body forward to propel oneself forward. Longer poles can strain shoulders and hinder the application of force, while shorter poles may limit stride force.
Skate ski poles typically resemble classic poles but are longer since they're held in a V-shape. The extra length helps skate skiers reach further to the sides and behind, maximizing the power and momentum applied.
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Skiing style |
General reference |
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Classic ski pole length |
30 cm (or 12”) shorter than skiers’ height |
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Skate ski pole length |
20 cm (or 8”) shorter than skiers’ height. |
Note: Regulations are significant in competitive cross country skiing. The International Competition Rules from FIS (International Ski and Snowboard Federation) dictate that poles should not be longer than 83% of one’s height when wearing ski boots.
Struggling to find poles that fit your height perfectly isn't uncommon. Beginners might choose slightly shorter poles, whereas experienced skiers often decide to size up based on personal preference.
In backcountry skiing, having adjustable poles with large snow baskets is vital – a more detailed exploration of backcountry ski poles is available in a separate section.
Materials for Cross Country Ski Pole Shafts – Stiffness Versus Weight
Cross-country ski pole shafts use materials such as fibreglass, carbon fibre, or a combination. A pole's stiffness depends on its carbon content. Poles crafted entirely from carbon are stiffer than those made with a 50-50 blend of carbon and fibreglass. Some options may include aluminium, often used for backcountry ski poles due to their durability on extended wilderness journeys.
Stiffer poles provide maximal power transfer, effectively transforming effort into speed. A softer pole cannot transfer equivalent power, but it can be gentler on arms across long distances. Those with sensitive elbows might benefit from using softer poles. For roller skiing over firm surfaces, opting for softer poles is advisable – check out our array of roller ski poles.
The stiffness of a pole also determines its weight – stiffer poles are lighter. A lighter pole requires less effort to move your arms forward with each stroke.
In sum: If you value speed and wish for top-notch gear, opt for stiff and lightweight poles. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, delighting in nature over speed, softer poles suffice.
Materials for Grips and Strap Designs on Cross Country Poles
Grips significantly affect performance and comfort in cross country ski poles. They enable you to maintain control and balance while skiing. Common grip materials include rubber, cork, and foam, each offering distinct benefits.
Rubber grips ensure a firm, slip-resistant grip, suitable for various weather conditions. Cork grips are notable for heat retention, aiding in keeping hands and fingers warm. Foam grips are lightweight and cushioned, minimising hand fatigue over longer periods and providing comfort.
Pole straps are crucial for controlling poles. Proper strap length adjustment ensures optimal performance. Ideally, straps should allow the release of the pole handle while maintaining close control during strides.
By selecting grips that align with preferences and adjusting straps effectively, you can enhance your skiing experience and optimise trail performance.
In need of replacement grips or straps for your cross country poles? Browse through our selection of cross country ski poles accessories for spare parts.
The following video provides straightforward instructions on replacing ski pole grips.
Cross Country Ski Poles for Backcountry Terrain - Adjustable Ski Poles and Large Snow Baskets
In backcountry skiing, choosing poles with large baskets is pivotal. These baskets offer ample pressure surfaces in loose snow, aiding support in diverse conditions.
Adjustable ski poles are essential for backcountry skiing. When navigating mountains, it's important to modify pole lengths independently. Adjustable poles ensure arms are even when tackling steep areas, sometimes called side-hilling.
In backcountry terrain, where conditions shift dramatically, being able to adjust pole lengths swiftly aids in adapting. Shorter poles are beneficial for uphill segments, encouraging upright posture. Conversely, longer poles provide better leverage and stability on flat or downhill stretches.
Find adjustable poles in our cross country ski poles range. Use filters to select poles by length, and options spanning lengths (like xx cm - xx cm) showcase our models with adjustable features.
Replacing Tips on Cross Country and Roller Ski Poles
Over time, ski pole tips will wear and need substitutions. Switching tips to harder roller ski pole variations for asphalt use during roller ski training can be beneficial.
Watch the following video for guidance on changing pole tips on cross country and roller ski poles. Before picking cross country ski pole tips or roller skiing tips, ensure you measure the pole diameter.
