Flip the pole upside down and grab the shaft just under the basket. Rest the tip on the floor; your elbow should form a 90-degree angle. If it's less than 90 degrees, the pole is too long; if more, it's too short.
Ski Poles · Alpine Ski Poles
How do I size alpine ski poles?
Related gear types
If this answer nudged you toward a different style, these guides compare specs and trade-offs.
Racing Ski Poles
$80 – $350
High-performance poles engineered for competitive alpine racing with aerodynamic profiles and maximum stiffness.
Curved/aerodynamic shaftCarbon fiber constructionStiff flex profile
Freestyle Ski Poles
$30 – $120
Shorter, lightweight poles designed for terrain park, pipe, and freestyle skiing.
Shorter lengthLightweight constructionDurable aluminum or composite
Adjustable/Telescoping Ski Poles
$40 – $220
Multi-length poles with telescoping sections for versatile use across varying terrain and conditions.
Telescoping sectionsQuick-adjust clampsVariable length range
More questions
- Are carbon fiber poles worth it for resort skiing?
- Can I use alpine poles for backcountry skiing?
- What is the difference between standard and powder baskets?
- Do I need curved poles for racing?