Black Diamond Skiing

What type of skiing will you be doing?

• Downhill skiing: Helps balance and time turns; most are fixed length
• Backcountry skiing: Adjustable poles let you lengthen for uphill travel, shorten for descents
• Cross-country skiing: Longer and lighter, designed to help you glide forward efficiently. Poles for skate skiing are longer than for classic skiing.

Sizing downhill poles:

• Stand in your ski boots on a level floor
• Grip the poles just below the basket
• Your elbow should form a 90° angle
• If the angle is less than 90°, try a shorter pole
• If the angle is greater, get a longer pole.

Basket type:

• Standard: for most conditions
• Powder: for deep snow
• Powder and standard: Interchangeable baskets