What's the use of ski poles?

Question

I've never really had a purpose for them, I can go on even the more advanced ski runs without poles, so why do I see the experienced people with them and the inexperienced without?

Answer 1

Most people just use them to get into the lines or to get somewhere. They are really used for balance and when you turn you are supposed to plant them and turn to that side. With poles you can get a smooth skiing style. They also help you get up if you fall.

Answer 2

it is easier to learn without the poles because they are just one more thing that you have to worry about. however, when you gain more experience, they help you to get on the lift and push yourself across the flat stuff. hope this helps explain it. : )

Answer 3

They help with balance

Answer 4

cross country skiing

Answer 5

Ski poles are not nessary for people. some people think it is easier to learn without them. And some people think that the poles just get in the way.

Answer 6

Using poles is really just out of habit. I've done both, and poles just feel better, i hardly use them, but it makes my life easier. It's really just a preference thing. Some people can't break the habit.

Help you get around

Provide balance if used properly

Provide a certain amount of confidence (it's something to hold on to when you fall)

help to get around flat areas (feels awesome to skate past walking boarders)

some use as a way to step out of binding

knock off snow from boots when stepping into binding

General walking sticks while hiking

Use to probe snow while looking for someone or to get a feel for the snow pack

Something to sword fight with

There are a ton of uses for poles (not all ski related), but they really aren't NEEDED.

Poles really have no use in the park, most people who use them in there just use out of habit.

Answer 7

To get around

Answer 8

With the advent of modern skis, poles aren't as important as they once were. Their main use today is for balance. They help you move on the flat or uphill. Poles also help in certain situations such as descending very steep slopes. Many skiers use a pole plant in short swing turns, although these days it is often a mere touch for rhythm rather than a firm pole plant.

Answer 9

Ski poles help in three ways

1. walking, climbing

2. getting up when fallen

3. in lift lines.

  For most other times they are in the way of the skier.  In advanced skiing, bumps, powder, tight turns, they help with balance and rhythm.  If your pole is too long in the bumps, they upset your balance and will cause you to accelerate.  If too short in powder or deep snow, they can cause over flexing and loss of balance.  

   Most experienced skiers carry them out of habit, but do not use them well, this includes many instructors.  When I teach beginners, I prefer they do not have poles, it forces them to use their feet, which you are doing.  Even when I teach instructors, I may require them to not use their poles.

Answer 10

They just help with balance when you are turning.  Also in the bumps it is easiar to plant your pole on the other side of the bump and make your turn around it.

Answer 11

Balance that is all!!!!

Answer 12

THEY HELP YOU TO KEEP YOUR BALANCE AND HELP INITATE THE TURN, ESPECIALLY WHEN DOING MOGILS