Determining the correct shaft length for skiing is crucial for maintaining proper balance and posture. An appropriately sized pole enables efficient propulsion and facilitates controlled turns. For flat terrain and gentle slopes, the ideal pole length allows the user to maintain a roughly 90-degree angle at the elbow when the pole tip is touching the ground. Skiers can estimate proper length by flipping the pole upside down, gripping it beneath the basket, and observing the angle at the elbow.
Using poles of the right dimensions enhances performance and reduces the risk of injury. A pole that is too long can lead to an awkward, unbalanced stance and difficulty navigating tighter turns. Conversely, a pole that is too short requires excessive bending at the waist, leading to fatigue and potentially compromising stability. Early methods relied on simple estimations based on overall height, while modern approaches incorporate more precise calculations considering individual skiing style and terrain preference.