Adjustable poles are strongly recommended for backcountry skiing. On the ascent, you need longer poles for efficient striding on skin tracks—typically 5-10 cm longer than your resort length. On the descent, you want your standard length or slightly shorter for maneuverability in variable terrain. Using fixed resort poles means compromising on one or both. Additionally, touring poles feature powder baskets, lighter weight, and often extended grips that resort poles lack. If you tour more than occasionally, proper touring poles are a worthwhile investment.
Ski Poles · Backcountry/Touring Poles
Do I really need adjustable poles for backcountry skiing, or can I just use my resort poles?
Related gear types
If this answer nudged you toward a different style, these guides compare specs and trade-offs.
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
Folding Ski Poles
$80 – $300
Compact poles that fold into short sections for easy packing in ski mountaineering and travel.
Folding sections (3-5 pieces)Internal cord systemUltra-compact packed size
More questions
- Should I choose telescopic or folding poles for ski touring?
- Are carbon fiber touring poles worth the extra cost, or should I save money with aluminum?
- How do I properly adjust my pole length for uphill versus downhill touring?
- What should I do if my adjustable pole slips or collapses under load?