Ski poles

Ski poles need to be strong enough to assist in planting turns, yet light enough so that your arms don't tire. Additionally, they need to be flexible enough so that a fall doesn't mangle them and require a new purchase.

If you're a beginner, find a good ski pole that fits you. As skiers become more experienced, they want higher quality materials for a better strength-to-weight ratio.

Strap design has evolved over the years, but the classic is still the flexible nylon wrist strap. If you lose your grip during a turn, the strap keeps the pole planted. The straps keep your poles with your arms in case you fall. You don't have to trudge 30 meters upslope to retrieve your poles.

The basket is a disk, normally made out of plastic, at the bottom of a ski pole. This device keeps your pole from sinking into the snow. In powder conditions, use a bigger basket. On groomed slopes during a competition, a smaller basket makes more sense. Alternatively, some poles come with baskets to be changed according to the slope and conditions.

While not necessarily used during competitions, telescoping poles come in handy for ski mountaineers or in training because they can be lengthened for uphill cross-country climbs, then shortened for alpine descents. Some models can even be extended and vertically joined together to use as a probe in case of an avalanche. Skiers choosing these poles will want them to adjust from waist height for downhill skiing to just above the armpit for best striding.