Skating poles

If you are planning to go skiing, then you will need to find the right equipment for this. Particular attention should be paid to the choice of sticks. Currently, there is a wide variety of similar products. Today we will talk about the features of skating poles.

Ski poles for skating can be of various types. Depending on what material they are made of, several varieties should be distinguished.

• Carbon fiber models. They are considered the most preferred option. Carbon fiber products are distinguished by high rigidity, increased strength and durability, while they are quite light in weight. Often in the manufacture of this material is combined with high-quality plastic. But it is better to select varieties with a carbon content of at least 60%.
• Fiberglass. Such material for making ski equipment is considered quite soft and fragile, but at the same time cheap. Sticks made from this base can only be used for amateur riding. They will also be a great option for those who are just learning to ski.
• Metal. Metal inventory is most often created from aluminum or from alloys with it. Such models are the most durable and reliable. They will be able to serve as long as possible.

Below we take a look at the best manufacturers of quality ski poles.

• SWIX. This manufacturing company produces products that are characterized by an increased level of rigidity. They have excellent balance and strength. In addition, the company's products are made from a reliable carbon base, the handle can be made of cork material.Many models are equipped with a special system for quick change of the presser foot, special adjustment. These poles will be the best option for professional athletes.

• Nordway. The company produces sticks with a variety of sizes, so each buyer can easily choose the right option for himself. The models are also made of carbon. The handles are made of cork and polypropylene, which is resistant to icing and freezing. The company's products have a low weight, increased level of strength and modern neat design.

• Nordic. This firm should also be included in the ranking of the best. It also specializes in the production of the latest convenient telescopic structures. They have a modern and stylish exterior. The manufacturer's products will be suitable for both amateurs and professional athletes. Ski poles of this brand are often made of durable processed metal (steel, aluminum, aluminum alloys). Their handle is made of cork material, and special thermal gloves are also used. Many models are sold with asphalt attachments. These poles are equipped with a quick and convenient adjustment system, reliable fixation. They provide perfect grip while riding.

• Larsen. The brand manufactures fiberglass and metal ski poles. Handles are most often made from polyurethane. They come in a wide variety of colors. The company's products have a variety of sizes. It is distinguished by the most stylish external design. Larsen sticks belong to the budget group.

• Berger. This Finnish brand should also be ranked in the top. He specializes in making durable ski poles that are made from aluminum alloy, the handles are more often made from cork base and polypropylene, and the tips can be made separately from rubber material. They have low weight and relatively low cost. Many models have a convenient folding design. Some models come with a small strap that can be quickly removed if necessary.

• STC. This brand sells strong and reliable ski poles, which often have a combination of compounds that give them maximum lightness and strength. The models, due to the use of a special alloy, make it easy to hold significant weight loads. The handles have a classic lanyard with fixation for working with the hands, so during sudden movements the athlete will not lose the stick. Their tips, as a rule, are slightly pointed, this makes it possible to maintain stability even on the most difficult surface areas.

Before purchasing ski poles, you will need to pay special attention to the size. After all, each individual variety is designed for a certain user height.

The International Ski Federation has set clear rules that set the maximum height for this equipment. For cross-country skating models, it can be 100% of the user's height. In this case, the length of the sticks is measured from the place of fixation of the lanyard.

For a height of 1.5 m, the best option will be models with a size of 130 cm, for a height of 1.6 m - 140 cm, 1.7 m - 150 cm, 1.8 m - 160 cm.

When choosing for yourself the most suitable model of ski poles, you should pay special attention to the material from which they are made. For professional athletes, the best option would be samples made from carbon fiber or from durable and reliable metal alloys. For beginners and just for amateurs, fiberglass models will be suitable.

And also when choosing, be sure to look at the tips. For many models, they are removable, so over time they can be easily changed to new ones when abraded. Most often, these parts are made from various metals.

The quality of the handle should also be considered. The best option would be handles that are made of high quality dense rubber, high quality plastic or cork material. The person's hand must be firmly attached to this part of the sticks.

Be sure to remember that the weight and length of such ski equipment should be selected depending on the height, age and physical capabilities of the person. The lower the weight of the products, the easier it will be to move around. For beginners, it is best to choose the lightest products possible.

If you are looking for an option for children, then preference should be given to budget models of a suitable size, because even with small falls there will be a high probability that the poles will be broken.

Professional athletes are advised to choose models from more well-known manufacturers. In this case, the best option will be specimens that, in the process of movement, help to easily develop high speed.