Guide to Selecting Cross Country Ski Poles

For those engaged in cross-country skiing, ski poles are crucial. Different techniques exist between classic cross country and skate skiing, which is essential to consider when selecting poles. This guide will delve into pole length, materials, grips, and additional factors.

If you already understand XC poles, feel free to browse our complete selection of cross country ski poles. Otherwise, please continue reading to become acquainted with vital considerations for choosing cross country ski poles.

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Cross Country Ski Poles Sizing: Determining Your Pole Size

When selecting cross country poles, it’s vital to choose ones that complement your height and skiing style. Essentially, determining the right pole length involves pairing the pole length with your stature and specific skiing style.

Getting the right Nordic ski pole size is crucial since it affects power transfer, alongside comfort and endurance. Poles that are excessively long might strain your arms and shoulders, while poles that are too short may cause excessive forward leaning, resulting in reduced power transfer and stability.

Due to differing techniques, skate ski poles are recommended to be longer than classic ski poles, with valid reasons behind this distinction.

Techniques like the classic double poling necessitate the skier lifting the poles before planting them firmly ahead in the ground. Leaning the upper body forward applies force to the poles for propulsion. Poles that are too long will cause shoulder stress and reduce force application, whereas short poles hinder effective striding force application.

Poles for skate skiing resemble classic poles but are longer. The additional length is necessary as they are usually held in a V shape towards the ground. Extended poles enable skate skiers to reach further to the sides and backward, optimising the force application and momentum generation range.

Skiing style

General reference

Classic ski pole length

30 cm (or 12”) shorter than the skier’s height

Skate ski pole length

20 cm (or 8”) shorter than the skier’s height

Note: For those competing, compliance with regulations is critical. According to the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS), poles must not exceed 83% of your height with ski boots on.

Should finding poles that exactly match your height prove challenging, don’t worry. Novices are encouraged to opt for slightly shorter poles, while more experienced skiers can better assess if sizing up is favourable based on their skiing experience.

For backcountry skiing, adjustable poles with large snow baskets are vital—a topic we discuss further in our backcountry ski poles section.

Cross Country Ski Poles Shaft Materials – Considering Stiffness and Weight

Ski pole shafts for cross-country are composed of either fibreglass, carbon fibre, or a blend of both. The carbon content dictates the pole's stiffness; 100% carbon poles are stiffer than those with a 50/50 fibreglass blend. Some aluminium models are also available, mainly for backcountry skiing due to their robustness for enduring wilderness journeys.

Stiffer poles excel in power transfer, enhancing your skiing speed by translating effort to trail speed effectively. Meanwhile, softer poles are easier on your arms during extended distances. If elbow sensitivity is an issue, a softer pole might be beneficial. A softer pole is beneficial on roller skiing’s harder surfaces – see our roller ski poles selection to explore other options.

The weight of the pole correlates to its stiffness—the stiffer it is, the lighter it will be. A reduced weight means requiring less effort to move your arms at the start of each stroke.

Summarising: For a swift skier desiring top-notch tools, stiff and lightweight poles are ideal. However, for those who prefer leisurely skiing to enjoy nature, softer poles are sufficient.

Materials of Grips & Strap Designs in Cross Country Poles

The grips are vital for control and comfort on cross country ski poles, directly influencing stability and control. These are typically made from rubber, cork, and foam, each with distinct benefits.

Rubber grips offer a non-slip grip suitable for any weather. Cork grips provide superior heat retention, keeping hands warmer, while foam grips deliver lightweight cushioning, diminishing hand fatigue over longer trips and ensuring comfort.

Straps are paramount for maintaining pole control. Accurate strap adjustment is crucial for optimal performance, allowing easy grip release while keeping the poles closely controlled during strides.

By selecting grips according to personal preferences and ensuring correct strap adjustments, skiing performance can be enhanced.

If you need spare grips or straps, explore our selection of cross country ski pole accessories.

Below is a video tutorial on changing ski pole grips.

Backcountry Cross Country Ski Poles - Adjustable Poles with Larger Snow Baskets

Larger baskets on cross-country ski poles are a must when venturing into backcountry skiing. These wide baskets offer support by creating a pressure surface in the loose snow often encountered outside the groomed tracks.

Extendable poles are indispensable in backcountry adventuring. When traversing uneven terrains, adjustable length poles help maintain level arms, which are essential for side-hilling or steep terrain manoeuvring.

The adjustable feature allows for pole length modification based on changing backcountry conditions. Reducing pole length during uphill climbs facilitates a more efficient, upright posture, whereas extending them on flat or downhill paths provides better leverage and stability.

Discover adjustable ski poles within our cross country ski poles selection. Use the length filter at the top to find adjustable models, selecting ranges such as xx cm - xx cm to view all available options.

Replacing Tips on Cross Country and Roller Ski Poles

Over time and with usage, pole tips will need replacement. If desired, you can swap the tips to roller ski pole versions, especially if training on asphalt is on the agenda.

The video below provides straightforward instructions for changing pole tips. Remember to measure your pole’s diameter when choosing cross country ski pole tips or tips for roller skiing.