I want to buy some adjustable ski poles, Could someone give me some advice or recommend some?

Question

Also, if possible could they be used for trekking aswell?

Answer 1

I wouldn't go w/ adjustable poles. They break too easy.

Answer 2

I concur with Powhound. If you are a resort skier, stick to a regular pole. I have several sets of Goode composite poles and they take lots of abuse.

My backcountry poles are adjustable. I prefer Black Diamond. The BD adjuster is easier to use than the Leki or Komperdall poles. Likewise, I spent two winters fixing and replacing the adjusters on Leki and Komperdall poles that came into my shop with "problems". In that same time I never once saw a set of BD poles show up in the repair shop with a busted adjuster.

However, avoid anything that has the "anti-shock" c**p on it. All it is a way for the pole companies to jack up the price and give the purchaser something else to worry about breaking. IMO, they are not worth it. They aren't like pogo sticks. So if you do get an "anti-shock" set, don't be putting a lot of excess body weight on the pole. They're not designed for big pole planting tricks.

There is very little difference between adjustable ski poles and adjustable trekking poles. Most of the difference is the graphic on the pole. (I got that straight from the Leki rep.)

Answer 3

Never seen adjustable ski poles, and I've been skiing for years.

They are different to trekking poles, which are usually sprung and adjustable.

Answer 4

Many back country tourers use adjustable poles.  Long for skating or diagonal stride and uphill slogs, and short for downhills.  There are 2 sorts of lock - a twist and a lever.  I think the lever is more robust.  You can also get poles with 2 or 3 sections - 3 compress to a shorter length for stowing is a pack, but have more moving parts to break.

http://www.rei.com/product/757210

http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detai...

http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detai...

I don't see why you cannot also use them for trekking poles - just remove the basket.

You will find the poles in outdoor stores or at places like REI or MEC.  Leki and Komperell are two companies that make them.  Black Diamond might also.

Answer 5

You don't see them in day to day use because they are heavier, and more fragile, than a standard pole. That's my opinion. I have a pair of adjustable poles, but seldom use them.

If you only ski at the resorts, then I suggest not buy them. If you want a trekking pole for hiking, then buy a pole that is designed specifically for that, with the shocks and all.

You can buy adjustable poles that are designed for skiing or trekking. They will come with little rubber tips that slide over the bottom of the pole.

If I go backcountry touring/winter camping, I still use my standard ski poles that I would at the resort, but I bring one of my adjustables as a spare, in case of broken or lost equipment.