Black Diamond Snowsports

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

Consider your main activity:

• Hiking: Compatible with hydration reservoirs; some have straps or loops to attach trekking poles or other gear.
• Running: Designed to limit bounce; compatible with water bottles or hydration reservoirs.
• Climbing: Slim profile with abrasion-resistant reinforcements.
• Traveling: Has compartments for easy organization; many meet carry-on size requirements.

How much gear will you carry?

• 20L or less: Ideal for short runs, day hikes or quick outings.
• 21–35L: The sweet spot for hiking and travel.
• 36–50L: Best for extended trips or adventures requiring more gear or clothing.

Find the right fit:

• Daypacks are available in a range of sizes.

• Check your torso length and waist against the brand's size chart for the best fit.
• Many packs feature adjustable torso lengths to fine-tune your fit.

What is an avalanche transceiver?

• If recreate in snow in the backcountry, a transceiver is an essential safety device, along with a probe and shovel.
• Transceivers help you locate a person buried in an avalanche or others find you if you’re buried.

What features should I look for?

• Analog or digital: Most modern transceivers are digital, though some are both digital and analog.
• Multiple burials: Enables searchers to pick up multiple buried victims. Most brands offer multiple burial tracking, even in basic models.
• Marking function: Allows the searcher to mark or "flag" the location of each buried person.
• Display screen: Shows direction and distance to a buried person. Premium models may have larger, high-contrast screens.
• Range: Brands will list in meters the circular range (typically 40 to 70) in which one transceiver can sense others’ signals.