WHICH PAIR OF POLES FOR SNOWSHOEING?

Just like summer hiking or trail running, a pair of snowshoeing poles is one of the essential pieces of equipment for a successful and hassle-free outing. Choosing the right poles requires focusing on a few key points. Find all our Ekosport tips to make the right choice of poles for snowshoeing.

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Why use poles for snowshoeing?

Two poles are like having two extra legs. On your future outings in nature, they will allow you to engage the upper body in movement, thus relieving pressure on the lower limbs. Additionally, on uneven terrain, they serve as stabilizers, helping you maintain balance on inclines, slopes, or side hills.

Finally, a pair of snowshoeing poles will prove particularly useful in case of a fall, helping you to get back up. An essential aid if you have slipped into deep powder.

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Alpine skiing or hiking: two types of poles

While staying in the mountains with all your ski gear, including your poles, why not use them for a snowshoe hike? Your alpine ski poles may be suitable for a walk on groomed trails. However, hiking poles have specific features that make them more efficient and practical for regular outings.

To explore snowy trails, hiking poles are adjustable, allowing better balance on sloped terrain. They have large baskets to prevent sinking too deeply into the snow. Their shafts are made from lightweight fiberglass composite rather than aluminum, offering better vibration absorption. Lastly, ergonomic handles provide better grip and an efficient push-off.

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Single-piece, telescopic, or foldable: Choosing snowshoe poles

A variety of hiking poles are designed for snowshoeing. These are typically categorized into three types: single-piece, telescopic poles, and foldable poles. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each model?

A single-piece pole is a fixed-length pole made from a single shaft. You must select the correct size, as it is not adjustable. This also means you cannot lend or resell it second-hand. However, despite these limitations, it is one of the **most durable and sturdy** snowshoe poles. It is also usually cheaper than other types.

The telescopic pole is particularly appreciated in hiking, walking, or snowshoeing. Since it is adjustable, you can modify the length to suit different inclines. The challenge lies in choosing the right adjustment system. **Entry-level telescopic poles** adjust by twisting, but over time, this mechanism tends to lose stability. A more reliable **clip adjustment system** has proven to be more effective, preventing accidental slippage.

Finally, **foldable poles**, also called multi-section poles, are recommended for occasional use. Their advantage? They fold up compactly for easy storage in a backpack. However, these **snowshoe poles** are not always adjustable, and some (especially three-section models) may be fragile over time.

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Choosing the right size hiking pole

The ideal pole length for hiking is **0.67 × your height**, the same as for alpine ski poles. Standing upright, with your hands on the grips and arms at your sides, your elbows should form a 90° angle.

If you engage in **sporty, fast-paced hiking**, consider slightly **longer poles**. This will increase your range of motion and allow for longer strides.

Snowshoeing includes a variety of activities, from simple walks on groomed, marked trails to more adventurous off-trail excursions in deep powder. Clearly, some activities require **more technical equipment** than others. The **model, quality, and features** of a pole impact its price, but the most important thing is to **choose a snowshoe pole** that fits your personal needs.