Many people
would actually benefit more from upgrading their poles than skis. Stronger
bigger skiers benefit from the increased stiffness of a better pole while
others benefit from the decreased swing weight.
Better poles
generally have more carbon fiber content. The poles are both stiffer and lighter
and up to a point even more durable. A stiffer poles returns more energy to
a skier as less is lost in the bending of the pole. Carbon fiber also allows
a pole to narrow more and weigh much less at the tip of the pole. This allows
a pole that is light to feel even lighter while swinging.
Unfortunately
for tall people, less expensive poles come only to 165 cm and fall well short
of what is needed for skate skiers over 6'2" or so. Very tall skiers,
even beginners often need to get something like the Avanti
or the Team just to get a pole long enough.
So what pole
is right for you? We would encourage most beginners to get entry level poles.
It just doesn't make a lot of sense to pay a lot for something that may get
used little in the long run. Casual skiers that are out only occasionally
can consider more if you like but will be served fine by less expensive poles.
If starting to race or ski alot get as much pole as you can afford. If you
want to see what we would recommend for you email
us and tell us how often you ski, how good you are, how tall you are and about
how much you want to spend (you can call as well 907-272-1811).
Another benefit
of better (as well as more expensive) poles is they come with a warranty of
sorts. The companies charge $12 for shipping but if it cost $70 to replace
a shaft it is better than nothing. Any pole over $80 that we carry has a one
year warranty.