Cross-country Ski Poles

Cross-country Ski Poles: Buying Guide and Good Deals

Are you looking to buy cross-country ski equipment? This practical and commercial guide helps you find lightweight, durable poles suited to your practice. Short, clear, and useful, it presents the types of poles, technical characteristics, tips for children, and offers on the best brands.

Types of Poles

There are poles for backcountry skiing, classic cross-country skiing, skating, and telescopic models for alpine skiing or backcountry skiing. Cross-country poles are often longer than those for backcountry. Choose according to your practice.

Technical Characteristics

Materials. Carbon offers the best weight-to-stiffness ratio. Aluminum is robust and economical. Mixed composites combine strength and comfort. For very lightweight and high-performance poles, opt for high-modulus carbon.

Weight. A weight reduction improves the push-off. But be careful: poles that are too fragile are not suitable for rocky terrain or trekking.

Handles and straps. Look for adjustable straps and ergonomic handles made of cork or EVA for comfort and better sweat evacuation.

Length and Adjustment

General rules: for classic, prefer a length of about 83% of your height. For skating, count around 90–92% of your height (pole up to the mouth or chin depending on the technique). Telescopic poles are easily adjustable for uphill and downhill in backcountry.

Quick test: on flat ground, in a pushing position, the arm should be slightly bent when the tip touches the snow.

Tips by Level

Beginner: prefer aluminum poles with good ergonomics and a reasonable price.

Intermediate to competitor: invest in carbon or high-end composites for increased efficiency.

In backcountry: choose reinforced tips and possibly wider baskets for powder snow.

For Children

Choose adjustable poles to accommodate growth. Opt for a lightweight model, with an easy-to-remove strap and handles suited for small hands. Always check the length before the first outing.

Differences Between Classic and Skating

The classic technique uses a more vertical push and requires poles that are slightly shorter than those for skating. Skating requires longer and stiffer poles for better lateral push-off.

Matching Poles to Your Equipment

Remember to choose your equipment as a whole: if you also want to choose your cross-country skis, consider the length and stiffness of the skis to match the length of the poles. High-performance cross-country ski boots improve effort transmission and complete the set.

Brands and Offers

Discover our selection: the Rossignol collection online offers versatile models for all levels. We also offer Leki poles for skiing and trekking that are robust for various outings. The Madshus cross-country ski collection includes competition and leisure models. Complete your equipment with quality parts, such as the KASTLE cross-country ski equipment for performance enthusiasts. Additionally, you can find a dedicated offer for buying ONE WAY cross-country ski poles depending on stock availability.

Good Deals

Check seasonal packs and our temporary promotions. Our offers sometimes include express delivery and discounts on pole + boot bundles. To equip a young person, check promotions on adjustable models.

FAQ

What are the best materials for lightweight and durable poles?

High-modulus carbon for lightness and stiffness. Aluminum for durability at a lower cost. Mixed composites offer a good compromise.

How to adjust the length of ski poles?

For classic, calculate about 0.83 × height. For skating, count around 0.90–0.92 × height. Adjust according to practice and test on the snow.

What to consider when buying poles for a child?

Prefer adjustable, lightweight models with suitable handles and a secure strap. Consider growth: an adjustable model is more economical.

What are the differences between classic cross-country skiing and skating?

Technique, pole length, and stiffness differ. Skating requires longer poles and a more explosive lateral push.

Ready to buy? Browse our offers, compare materials, and place your order in just a few clicks. Our product sheets detail weight, length, and tip type to facilitate your choice.

Need help? Contact our customer service for personalized advice and recommendations based on your level.