So, what are ski poles for, anyways? Generally speaking, poles are used to help skiers with their balance, rhythm, and timing during turns, and support as they move around the mountain. Choosing a good ski pole comes down to the balance between weight and material strength. Materials most often range from aluminum, carbon fiber, fiberglass, and some combination of the three to bamboo and other novelty materials, and you’re sure to see all manner of designs and constructions out on the hill. From traditional racing poles that are bent at angles optimized for hard-carving, tight turns to more traditional straight designs, the most important thing to know about choosing the best ski poles is that a well-fitting pole can make your day that much better and can help you progress towards more challenging terrain. We’ve put together this guide to the best ski poles to help you find poles for this upcoming season. Take a look, and see you out on the mountain!
For more of our top ski gear recommendations, check out the Best Backcountry Ski Poles.
Quick Answer - The Best Ski Poles
- Leki Stealth S
- Black Diamond Razor Carbon Pro
- Grass Sticks Original
- Rossignol Tactic
- Line Pollard’s Paintbrush
- K2 Power Composite
- Swix Techlite Pro
- K2 Freeride 16
- Rossignol Stove Pipe Sr.
- Dynafit Speed Vario 2.0
Comparison Table - Best Ski Poles
| Picture | Name | Best Use | Adjustable | Basket Type | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Leki Stealth S | Downhill Skiing | No | Powder | $$$ | 4.9 |
 | Black Diamond Razor Carbon Pro | Downhill/Backcountry Skiing | Yes | Powder | $$$$ | 4.8 |
 | Grass Sticks Original | Downhill Skiing | No | Standard | $$$ | 4.8 |
 | Rossignol Tactic | Downhill Skiing | No | Standard | $ | 4.6 |
 | Line Pollard’s Paintbrush | Downhill Skiing | Yes | Powder and Standard | $$ | 4.7 |
 | K2 Power Composite | Downhill Skiing | No | Powder and Standard | $$ | 4.6 |
 | Swix Techlite Pro | Downhill Skiing | No | Powder and Standard | $$ | 4.7 |
 | K2 Freeride 16 | Downhill Skiing | No | Standard | $$ | 4.5 |
 | Rossignol Stove Pipe Sr. | Downhill Skiing | No | Standard | $ | 4.9 |
 | Dynafit Speed Vario 2.0 | Backcountry and Downhill Skiing | Yes | Powder | $$$$ | 4.9 |
| Picture | Name | Best Use | Adjustable | Basket Type | Price | Rating |
Reviews - The Best Poles for Skiing
Leki Stealth S
Specs
- Adjustable: No
- Best Use: Downhill Skiing
- Weight: 1 lb. 2.34 oz. (Pair)
- Shaft Material: Aluminum
- Basket Type: Powder
- Safety Release: Yes
Features
- Aluminum Alloy Construction Allows For Maximum Durability And Strength
- Wrist Straps Click Into The Grip And Release With Pressure For Added Safety
- Wide Baskets At The Bottom Of The Pole Allow For Optimized Use On Powder Days
BEST FOR: SAFETY AND PERFORMANCE
Leki’s Stealth S ski pole is designed with you in mind. The straps that fit around your wrists to keep your poles in hand as you grip them heading down the ski hill have a pressure release system. This system detaches the strap from the pole, and thus your wrist and hand from the pole, when certain pressure is exerted to protect your hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders from injury.
Additionally, Leki has made this pole with an aluminum alloy construction, which keeps costs down while adding strength and durability to the pole. Finally, these poles are not only great for regular resort ski days but also for powder days when you’re wading through deep snow. The larger baskets help the poles to float better on top of the snow instead of sinking down into it.
Black Diamond Razor Carbon Pro
Specs
- Adjustable: Yes
- Best Use: Downhill/Backcountry Skiing
- Weight: 1 lb. 5 oz. (Pair)
- Shaft Material: Aluminum/Carbon Fiber
- Basket Type: Powder
- Safety Release: Yes
Features
- Straps Have A Release Function For Added Safety Both At The Resort And In The Backcountry
- Grips Are Made Of Soft Touch Rubber For Added Comfort And Performance
- Pole Height Can Be Adjusted For Backcountry Skiing
BEST FOR: AMBITIOUS BEGINNERS
The Black Diamond Razor Carbon Pro ski poles are made for those ready for an adventure. If you’re a beginner or intermediate skier who is looking to improve and eventually make it out beyond the resort and into the backcountry, it may make sense for you to invest now in poles that can take you there. The aluminum/carbon fiber shaft construction balances strength and weight, so that you can be sure that they’ll hold up to your activity level without weighing you down. Additionally, these poles feature straps that release with a certain amount of torque and pressure, a safety feature that protects your hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders in the event of a fall or impact. Finally, these poles are height adjustable so that you can optimize the performance for the type of terrain that you’re on.
Grass Sticks Original
Specs
- Adjustable: No
- Best Use: Downhill Skiing
- Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz. (Pair)
- Shaft Material: Bamboo
- Basket Type: Standard
- Safety Release: No
Features
- Built By Hand In The United States In Steamboat Springs, Colorado
- Bamboo Shafts Have The Strength Of Steel And Compressive Strength That Is Greater Than Concrete
- Grips Are Made With A Soft Rubber That Stays Put In Your Hands While You’re Skiing
BEST FOR: ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS SKIERS
Though they may seem like a novelty, these bamboo Grass Sticks poles are here to stay. Instead of using materials like aluminum and carbon that are mined from the Earth to construct their poles, Grass Sticks has chosen bamboo, a regenerative material that absorbs more CO2 and produces more oxygen than any other plant. The straps are also made of 100% recycled polyester, making these poles one of the most environmentally conscious products on the market. In addition to the environmental benefits of purchasing these poles, they also feature an incredible weight to strength ratio, making them the perfect accompaniment to any terrain that you decide to ski.
Rossignol Tactic
Specs
- Adjustable: No
- Best Use: Downhill Skiing
- Weight: N/A
- Shaft Material: 6061 Dural O18 Aluminum
- Basket Type: Standard
- Safety Release: No
Features
- Durable Aluminum Shafts Allow For Lightweight Comfort And Ease Of Use
- Ergonomic Grips Provide A Secure Feeling Even In Gloves And Mittens
- Shaft Construction Is Designed To Absorb And Dampen Vibrations Transmitted Up Through The Poles
BEST FOR: NO FUSS PERFORMANCE
The Rossignol Tactic All Mountain ski poles are all about no fuss performance. Without the bells and whistles of some of the poles in the same category, these poles may seem overly simplistic, but that judgment would miss the benefits of this kind of simplicity. A basic aluminum construction allows for lightweight performance without compromising on durability, and a specially designed ergonomic grip promises all day comfort on any terrain at the resort. Finally, it’s hard to beat the value that comes with these poles for the price. A low price tag gets you all the performance that you need to enjoy and maximize a ski day at your favorite resort.
Line Pollard’s Paintbrush
Specs
- Adjustable: Yes
- Best Use: Downhill Skiing
- Weight: 1 lb. 1.3 oz. (Pair)
- Shaft Material: 7075 Aluminum
- Basket Type: Powder and Standard
- Safety Release: No
Features
- Art On The Poles Was Designed By Artist Eric Pollard
- A Tab Located At The Top Of The Grip Helps To Keep Poles In Place
- Screw Off Baskets Are Easy To Swap Out For Standard And Powder Baskets
BEST FOR: ARTISTIC VERSATILITY
Line’s Pollard’s Paintbrush ski poles are perfect for time spent both on and off the slopes. The lightweight construction of these versatile poles will help you advance through any terrain and the adjustable height adds further versatility. The baskets can also be easily swapped out; for powder days, simply attach the powder baskets to help the poles float above the snow a bit more, and for those days that you’d rather cruise the groomed runs, replace the powder baskets with standard ones for added grip. The adjustable nature of these poles also makes them great for walking or trekking as well. If you’re headed into town for dinner on a snowy evening, bring these poles with you for added stability and comfort on icy or snowy sidewalks.
K2 Power Composite
Specs
- Adjustable: No
- Best Use: Downhill Skiing
- Weight: N/A
- Shaft Material: Composite
- Basket Type: Powder and Standard
- Safety Release: No
Features
- Composite Shaft Construction Provides Lightweight Strength
- Straps Are Adjustable For Added Comfort
- Baskets Are Designed For All Types Of Snow Conditions And Terrain
BEST FOR: EXPLORING THE MOUNTAIN
K2’s Power Composite ski poles offer the best in ski pole construction design and materials without over-complicating the features of the pole. The 100% composite shaft offers the perfect balance of weight, durability, and strength, so these poles are designed to last and live up to whatever you send their way. From trees to groomed trails and beyond, these poles will get you there. The 60 millimeter baskets will keep your poles floating through powder and will also power through the icy crud in the springtime. Finally, the performance rubber grips and adjustable straps help you to customize your fit for long-lasting, all-day comfort at your favorite ski resort.
Swix Techlite Pro
Specs
- Adjustable: No
- Best Use: Downhill Skiing
- Weight: 1 lb. 8 oz. (Pair)
- Shaft Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum
- Basket Type: Powder and Standard
- Safety Release: No
Features
- Grips Are Ergonomically Designed For Maximum Comfort And Made Of Hyper-Durable Materials For Long-Lasting Performance
- Tab On The Top Of The Grip Keeps The Pole In Your Hand Even When You’re Losing Your Grip
- The Basket System Makes It Easy To Swap Out Standard Baskets For Powder Baskets Or Vice Versa As Conditions Change
BEST FOR: HIGH PERFORMANCE COMFORT
The Swix Techlite Pro ski poles are designed for all-day comfort and performance. The tab located at the top of the grip exists to hold onto your hand even if you lose your grip. It also encourages you to loosen your grip around the poles; you’ll often find that your hands and forearms will get tired after a day of holding and using your poles around the mountain, but if you can loosen your grip, you’ll save a bit of energy throughout the day and promote circulation in your fingers and hands. Finally, the easy-to-use basket system allows you to swap out the baskets on the ends of your poles with ease. For powder days, go for the wider baskets while a day spent on the groomers would be best for your standard, smaller pole baskets.
K2 Freeride 16
Specs
- Adjustable: No
- Best Use: Downhill Skiing
- Weight: N/A
- Shaft Material: 6061 Aluminum
- Basket Type: Standard
- Safety Release: No
Features
- Reduced Diameter Around The Grip Of The Poles Makes Them Comfortable For Those With Smaller Hands
- Standard Sized Baskets Are Perfect For Groomed Terrain Or Enjoying the Terrain Park
- Lightweight Aluminum Shaft Is Both Strong And Durable
BEST FOR: BOLD AND BRIGHT STYLE
The most standout feature of the K2 Freeride 16 poles is their bright color choices. Your friends are sure to not lose you on the slopes with your choice of either hot pink or highlighter orange ski poles. In addition to their flashy style, these poles also feature lightweight, strong aluminum shaft construction that will hold up to any terrain on the resort, including the terrain park. Finally, these poles also include reduced grip circumference, making them perfect for young teenagers or those with smaller hands so that they can better hold on to the poles without worrying about dropping them or their hands getting too tired.
Rossignol Stove Pipe Sr.
Specs
- Adjustable: No
- Best Use: Downhill Skiing
- Weight: N/A
- Shaft Material: Aluminum
- Basket Type: Standard
- Safety Release: No
Features
- Adjustable Straps Support Your Wrists And Hands With A Customizable Fit
- Aluminum Shaft Is As Lightweight As It Is Strong
- Baskets Are Designed For Hard-Packed Snow And Groomed Terrain
BEST FOR: BEGINNERS
You’ll be hard pressed to find a better ski pole for the money. The Rossignol Stovepipe Sr. ski poles are perfect for beginners just getting into the sport for their price, their lightweight strength and durability, and their ease-of-use. Adjustable wrist straps allow you to customize the fit and feel of the poles, and the grips are made specially for maximum comfort and performance. If you’re just getting into the sport and need a pair of reliable poles that will follow you to new terrain as you progress, these are the ski poles for you.
Dynafit Speed Vario 2.0
Specs
- Adjustable: Yes
- Best Use: Backcountry and Downhill Skiing
- Weight: 14.7 oz. (Pair)
- Shaft Material: Carbon
- Basket Type: Powder
- Safety Release: No
Features
- Ultra Lightweight Construction Ensures Maximum Comfort Throughout The Day On The Ski Hill
- Non-Directional Grip Can Be Held In Either Direction With Ease And Comfort
- Poles Are Height Adjustable For Maximum Comfort And Adaptability
BEST FOR: TAKING IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL
The Dynafit Speed Vario 2.0 ski poles are the ultimate poles both in the resort and in the backcountry. The adjustable height allows for versatility in all conditions, and the ultra lightweight carbon construction makes these poles comfortable to carry around all day on the resort or as you hike to your next line. If you think that you’re interested in heading to the backcountry at some point in your ski career, it might be worth investing in a pair of ski poles that you’ll be able to use in every terrain and scenario.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING SKI POLES
COST
Ski poles are typically reasonably priced; they are definitely not the priciest piece of equipment in your ski gear arsenal. The difference in cost typically comes in when you start looking at telescoping designs and specialized grips. You should always choose the best option for you when it comes to that balance between economy and functionality, but it’s also best to choose something that will last. Go for a pole that you will be using for years to come.
FIT
Choosing a pole that is commensurate with your height and size is critical to having an effective piece of equipment. As a general rule, poles should sit slightly below your armpit height. To measure, turn your poles upside down so that the grip is sitting on the ground and the point and basket (plastic disc on the bottom of your pole) are facing skyward. Grip the pole right under the basket, and look to see if your arm is bent at a 90 degree angle. If your arm and elbow are extended beyond 90 degrees, then the pole is likely too short. If your elbow is more bent and your fist rests above your elbow, the pole is likely too long.
MATERIALS
Poles can be made of many different materials including bamboo, which you’ll find in some boutique designers. Typically, poles are made of aluminum, a higher grade aluminum, carbon, or a composite of aluminum and carbon. Aluminum shafts have the most basic type of construction; this is the type of pole that you’ll typically find in rental shops. Higher grade aluminum, composite, and carbon-based poles are higher end and usually come with a slightly higher price tag. But with the higher price tag comes better durability, so you’ll have to decide what the best balance is for you when it comes to economy and durability.
STYLE
Ski poles come in all sorts of colors and designs. Though the designs have little to no bearing on the performance of the ski pole, the choice of poles presents an opportunity to express yourself and your personal style. Take this opportunity to go bold or to match your pants, jacket, and skis for an awesome look out on the ski hill.
BEST USE/POLE TYPES
Though any pole can really be used for downhill skiing, there are certain categories of poles made specifically for different downhill skiing disciplines. All-mountain poles are made from anything from aluminum to high tech carbon fiber. They typically have a straight shaft and are made for skiers of all ages and abilities. Freestyle poles are made for those that enjoy the terrain park and are typically much shorter for increased maneuverability.
You can recognize racing or racing style poles for their distinctive shaped structures. The different angles are optimized for power at the start of a run and aerodynamics. Backcountry poles are telescoping so that the lengths can be adjusted based on the type of terrain that the skier is on. For more information about choosing the best ski poles for you, check out REI’s Expert Advice column on how to choose the right ski pole.
FEATURES EXPLAINED
STRAP
This term refers to the flexible nylon loop attached to the pole at the top of the grip. When you loop your wrists through the straps, it prevents poles from sliding down the hill if you fall or drop the pole. Note that you’ll want to remove the straps and hold your poles in one hand when you’re getting on and off the chair lift.
BASKET
The basket is the plastic disk at the bottom of your pole that sits just above the point. The purpose of the basket is to keep your pole from sinking too far into the snow. Typically, powder conditions call for a wider basket, while groomed terrain calls for a smaller one.
TELESCOPING POLES
Telescoping poles are typically used by ski mountaineers or those that ski in the backcountry. They can be extended for uphill climbs and retracted for steep descents. While these might be nice to have if you’re contemplating heading into the backcountry, this type of design is typically unnecessary for those who spend the most time in the resort.
GRIP
This term refers to the grooved handle that sits at the top of the pole and to which you hold on. You want to make sure that the grip fits your hand comfortably enough to hold onto it all day.
COMPOSITE
Ski poles come in all sorts of materials and designs, but a pole made with a composite of materials is typically the best and most versatile for resort skiing. The mixture of materials provides the best balance between weight and strength.
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