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Ski Poles Frequently Asked Questions
History of Ski Poles
While it hasn't always been a leisure activity, skiing has been a mode of transportation for men and women for centuries. Ski poles have been found dating back 10,000 years, although these original poles were much different than the ones used today (obviously). These first ski poles had no grips or straps and were made of wood instead of aluminum alloy. It wasn't until the 1930s that ski poles began to be crafted out of metal (the first of these were made of stainless steel), which made it possible for them to have an adjustable length. Later, poles were crafted from carbon fiber to make them both lighter and stronger, and other improvements included the use of bent poles for ski racers, which reduces drag and increases speed.
Ski Pole Buying Guide
There are three major factors to consider when choosing ski poles: the fit, the strap, and the basket. To find a pole with the right fit, stand in your ski boots and hold your pole at your side. If your arm sits comfortably at a 90 degree angle, then your pole is the perfect length. If the angle is smaller than 90 degrees, you need a longer pole. The basket -- the piece of plastic or rubber that acts as a stopper at the base of your pole -- can come in a handful of shapes and sizes. The basket shape that is best suited for you depends on the type of skiing you will be doing. As a general rule of thumb, use a larger basket with more surface area for powder conditions, and a smaller one on hard-packed snow.
Best Ski Poles
Three ski poles stand out among the rest: Black Diamond Expedition 3, Black Diamond Helio, and Leki Spark S. The aluminum Black Diamond Expedition 3 is one of the best ski poles available and is perfect for most conditions (although it is primarily built for backcountry and ski mountaineering). Black Diamond Helio poles offer a similar experience and can be used on similar types of hills, but they’re made from carbon, making them more lightweight. Leki Spark S poles are made of high-grade aluminum and are best used for racing and alpine skiing.