Guide to Choosing the Right Cross Country Ski Poles

Cross-country ski poles hold significant importance in the realm of cross-country skiing. Various poling techniques are used in classic cross country and skate skiing, a detail crucial when selecting cross country poles. This guide delves deeper into aspects like pole length, material, grips, and tips.

If you're already knowledgeable about XC poles specifics, feel free to browse our complete selection of cross country ski poles. Otherwise, continue reading to acquaint yourself with the key considerations in choosing cross country ski poles.

Feel free to skip to the section that captures your interest:

Cross Country Ski Poles Sizing: What Size is Appropriate for Me?

When selecting cross country poles, aim for poles that complement your height and skiing style. Essentially, the appropriate cross country ski pole length merges your height with your skiing style requirements.

Proper Nordic ski pole sizing influences power transmission, comfort, and endurance. Overly long poles may strain your shoulders and arms, while very short poles might cause excessive forward lean when skiing, hampering power transmission and balance.

Skate ski poles have a different recommended length compared to classic ski poles due to differing techniques. Classic skiing poles are shorter than those used in skate skiing for valid reasons.

The classic double poling technique, for instance, necessitates lifting the poles to plant them firmly ahead. Leaning the upper body forward applies force to the poles for propulsion. Excessively long poles can strain shoulders and hinder force application, while overly short poles limit the force in each stride.

Skate ski poles are generally similar but longer than classic poles. Their added length is essential to reach the ground, as they're typically held in a V-shape downwards. Extended pole length facilitates greater force application over a wider range, boosting momentum.

Skiing style

General reference

Classic ski pole length

30 cm (or 12”) less than skiers’ height

Skate ski pole length

20 cm (or 8”) less than skiers’ height.

Note: In competitive cross country skiing, conforming to specific regulations is essential. According to the International Competition Rules by FIS (the International Ski and Snowboard Federation), pole length shouldn't surpass 83% of your height measured while in cross country boots.

If you're unable to find poles matching your height exactly, there’s no need for frustration. Beginners are advised to opt for slightly shorter poles, while experienced skiers can decide to size up based on personal experience.

For backcountry cross-country skiing, adjustable poles with bigger snow baskets are crucial – we'll examine this aspect further in the section on backcountry ski poles.

Shaft Materials in Cross Country Ski Poles – Stiffness and Weight

The shafts of cross-country ski poles are crafted from either fibreglass, carbon fibre, or a mix of the two. The carbon content in a pole dictates its stiffness. Poles comprised of 100% carbon are stiffer than those with a 50/50 carbon and fibreglass mix. Certain models also come in aluminium. Aluminium cross country poles are better suited for the rigours of backcountry skiing, enduring the wear of extended wilderness trips.

Stiffer poles advantageously maximise power transmission while skiing, translating effort directly into speed on the trails. A softer pole provides less power transfer yet is easier on arms when skiing long stretches. If elbow sensitivity is a concern, a softer pole might be beneficial. For roller skiing, often on hard surfaces, a softer pole is preferable - explore our range of roller ski poles.

Pole stiffness affects weight, with stiffer poles being lighter. A lighter pole reduces the required force for moving your arms forward at each stroke's start.

In summary: Fast skiers seeking top-quality gear should select stiff and light poles. For those skiing at a relaxed pace – who venture out to enjoy nature's beauty over speed – a softer pole is perfectly adequate.

Grip Materials and Strap Designs for Cross Country Poles

Grips are vital for the performance and comfort of cross country ski poles, affecting control and stability. Grips commonly consist of rubber, cork, and foam – each providing distinct benefits.

Rubber grips ensure a firm, non-slip grasp, ideal for all adverse weather. Cork grips excel in heat retention compared to other grips, keeping hands and fingers warm. Foam grips deliver a lightweight, cushioned texture, reducing hand exhaustion during lengthy sessions and ensuring comfortable handling.

The importance of pole straps cannot be understated. Essential for pole control, accurate strap adjustment is crucial for optimal performance. Ideally, straps should allow releasing the pole handle while maintaining close control during strides.

By selecting the right grips and ensuring correct strap adjustment, you can enhance skiing experiences and optimise performance on trails.

If you need spare grips or straps for your poles, check our selection of cross country ski poles accessories for replacements.

You'll find easy instructions in the video below on how to replace ski pole grips.

Backcountry Cross Country Ski Poles - Adjustable Poles with Enhanced Snow Basket Features

Opting for poles with substantial baskets is essential in backcountry skiing. Larger baskets offer a significant pressure surface for better support in varying loose snow conditions.

Extendable poles are indispensable in backcountry cross-country skiing. When navigating mountains, adjusting pole length independently is vital. Adjustable backcountry poles help maintain arm balance on steep terrains, known as side-hilling.

In backcountry skiing where slopes vary greatly, rapidly adapting pole length is crucial. Shorter poles assist uphill efficiency, promoting an upright stance, while longer poles provide better leverage on flat or downhill slopes.

Our cross country ski poles selection includes adjustable poles. At the top of the page, you can narrow results by length, and choosing range options (such as xx cm - xx cm) will reveal our adjustable pole models.

Replacing Ski Pole Tips for Cross Country and Roller Ski Poles

Over time, your pole tips will deteriorate and need replacing. You may also wish to switch your cross country pole tips to harder ones suitable for roller skiing on asphalt while maintaining regular poles for roller ski training.

The video below provides clear instructions on replacing pole tips for cross country or roller ski poles. Remember to measure your pole diameter before choosing cross country ski pole tips or roller skiing tips.