Ski poles: how to choose the right one and what you need to know. Choosing cross-country skis correctly: instructions for beginners
With the arrival of winter, goods for winter sports. Ski equipment is especially popular. Below we will consider what the length of the skis should be for various types skating.
Rules for selecting equipment for the classic move
The first point is the correct length. There are two ways to figure out which skis are the right size. The oldest and most common way is to stretch your arm up. The tip of the ski should reach your palm.
You can add 30 cm to your own height. This is another way to choose the length of skis for the classic stroke.
Beginners should opt for models with notches in the middle. They hold the ski and prevent it from slipping back. It will be much easier to master the ski track. If you have some riding experience, then the presence of notches can be a hindrance, since they also prevent you from accelerating much and slow you down.
Rules for selecting skis for skating
If a different type of skating is used, the rules for selecting equipment will change. The length of the skis for skating is slightly shorter. This is because the heels can overlap or catch on one another, thereby interfering with movement.
Ski length for is determined by next rule: your height + 10-15 cm. Beginners can purchase more short models. Maximum size skating skis - 200 cm. They differ from classic ones in appearance: a blunter toe and the absence of notches on the sliding side.
Combi or touring skis
There is some intermediate option for those who have not yet decided how they will skate: classic or skate. Combi skis combine the features of equipment for both types of movement. They have a reduced length (maximum 195 cm), but may have notches, and they are also softer. In this case, the length of the skis is also determined by height. To choose the size of this type of ski, you need to add 15-20 cm to your height.
By the way, in many sports stores there are usually special tables where the length of skis and poles for classics or skates is already calculated.
Rules for selecting poles
A necessary piece of equipment is ski poles. Their length will depend on the type of skiing chosen. For the classic move, shorter poles are used. Their size is calculated by the formula: height minus 25-30 cm. As a result, they are obtained at the level of the armpit or shoulder. The poles used for skating are usually 10 cm longer. Their maximum height is up to the ears.
How to choose the length of skis for children
IN general outline All these rules for selecting the length of equipment apply to a child. However, it should be borne in mind that children's skis are softer, since the pushing force and weight of a child are significantly inferior to those of adults.
You should not buy equipment “for growth”; the reserve should not exceed 5 cm, because it will be difficult and uncomfortable for a child to ski in skis that are too long, and excessively high poles will interfere with pushing off. In addition, the risk of injury increases significantly. As a result, the child will not receive pleasure, and his interest may disappear.
in the shop
Before you go shopping for equipment, you need to decide what kind of skis you need: skate or classic. If you don’t have a preference yet, then you can choose recreational ones; you can master the skate on them, albeit with difficulty. If you buy ones that are suitable for the last move, then it is impossible to master the classics on them, because due to their rigidity they will not allow you to push on the ski track. So, the main points when choosing skis:
How to choose alpine skis
For some reason, when selecting alpine skiing They are guided by the height of the skater, as for cross-country. Some even use the same calculation formulas. However, this approach is incorrect, because downhill racing and a walk in the forest are completely different things. And when selecting equipment, you need to take this into account.
First of all, you need to remember that alpine skiing provides high-speed descent, so good control is necessary. As a rule, their length reaches the nose or is equal to the height of the skater, and maybe even less. The growth indicator is not the main thing here. First of all, you should pay attention to the type of skiing and the route.
Professional slalom athletes use skis with a length of 165 cm (the minimum acceptable size). This is due to the fact that there are many sharp turns on the track, and entering them is quite difficult. To successfully perform figures, good maneuverability is required, which is ensured by a small turning radius. And it is determined by the length of the skis: the shorter they are, the smaller the radius, the more maneuverable the skis. If the rules allowed the use of shorter equipment, then athletes would use it. The turning radius is indicated on each pair (it is designated by the Latin letter “R”). The smaller it is, the shorter and steeper the turns can be.
On the other hand, you won’t be able to accelerate much on short skis with constant sharp turns. Therefore, for high-speed descents in a straight line or with wide turns, the course will need a longer pair.
For those who like to “loop around”, as well as for beginners, shorter skis are suitable, as they are easier to control and accelerate less. For experienced riders, longer models are suitable: they quickly develop high speeds, make them wider and smooth turns. They are also good for wide snow-covered slopes. On narrow or icy roads you will have to maneuver, which means short ones will come in handy.
Alpine skiing is also divided into men's, women's and children's. And the difference between them is not only in color. The category affects the stiffness and ability to carry a certain weight.
for a child
To properly equip your child, you first need to take into account his weight and age. This will affect how long the skis should be. Also an important factor is experience in both alpine and cross-country skiing. If there is one, then the preferred method of descent must be taken into account. All this will affect the length.
Children's skis are selected based on the following correspondence tables:
- with a weight of up to 20 kg, ski length up to 80 cm;
- up to 30 kg - up to 90 cm;
- up to 40 kg - up to 100 cm;
- from 40 kg - the ski is no longer than from the floor to the nose or even the chin, if there is no skiing experience.
Otherwise, the same rules are followed as when selecting equipment for adult riders.
Touring skis
They are not intended for Sunday walks, but for winter hikes in places untouched by civilization. They can be used on virgin soil, deep snow, where there are no specially equipped trails. They are quite rigid and wide (more than 6 cm), often have a reinforced base.
To determine what the length of the skis should be, you need to know the weight of the tourist along with the backpack: up to 80 kg - 160 cm, up to 100 kg - 190 cm, 120 kg and more - 200 cm. If the hike is light, then the skis should be equal to height or even be 5 cm shorter. Also, their socks are longer and higher than those of running shoes. This is necessary so that the skis do not bury themselves in the snow. Another difference is that in many of them the notch is applied almost the entire length to ensure the most reliable grip on snow.
We'll tell you what to look for if you're planning to choose one for yourself. Scandinavian sticks.
Surely, while walking in the park, you often met people of different ages who walked like you, only in their hands they held poles that looked like ski poles. It is clear that they are not ski shoes, and people hold them in their hands for a reason - they play sports. If you like watching such “walkers” and you have decided that this sport is clearly for you, we will tell you what to look for when choosing equipment.
Nordic walking poles: types
Sticks for nordic walking there are two types:
- fixed length or monolithic;
- sliding or telescopic.
However, even experienced athletes will not be able to clearly answer which type to give preference to, since both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Monolithic poles are characterized by the following:
- they are light in weight;
- there is no risk of injury;
- will last as long as possible;
- You can walk on sand, wet roads and even mud.
It doesn’t matter whether you are new to this sport or an experienced walker. The monolithic stick suits everyone. Beginners don’t have to worry about the structure accidentally folding and causing injury. And for those who have been doing this kind of walking for a long time, it is important to know that a monolithic pole gives a constant load during training. The most important thing is to choose a stick that suits your height. We will talk about how to do this correctly, but a little lower.
Telescopic poles fold easily. They have a built-in special anti-shock system - a shock-absorbing spring.
Sliding poles are selected according to for the following reasons:
- length is easily adjustable;
- they are easy to transport and take with you on any trip;
- you can easily adjust the intensity of the load;
- their cost is cheaper than monolithic ones.
Keep in mind that it is better not to use collapsible poles too often. If water, dirt or sand gets into the clamps several times, they can easily break. Also, the stick may begin to constantly make noise due to excessive vibration. Therefore, if you exercise daily, it is better not to buy such poles. They are more suitable for those who train infrequently or, say, go out of town on weekends to actively relax. In this case telescopic poles are ideal for transportation.
How to choose Scandinavian poles: basic criteria
When you have decided on the type of poles, you need to ensure that the remaining parameters suit you perfectly. It is important that the poles are not too high or too heavy, soft or uncomfortable. To do this, you need to pay attention to the following criteria.
There is no exact formula for calculating the optimal weight. This parameter is strictly individual. The main thing is that you should not feel heavy when holding the sticks in your hands. After all, if they are heavy, then the training will be unbearable and more harmful than useful.
Length
Almost the entire workout depends on the length of the Nordic poles. Poles that are too long can give excessive load, while poles that are too short can, on the contrary, not give it at all. Fortunately, there is a calculation formula that will help you choose the optimal pole height. To do this, you need to multiply your own height by 0.68, and round the resulting result to an even figure. Let's say your height is 167, multiply by 0.68 and get 113.6. This means you need a stick approximately 115 centimeters long.
Elasticity
Scandinavian poles must be elastic. This is very important, because hard poles vibrate, and this is harmful to the joints. In addition, you may simply fall while walking if your poles are not elastic. Make a few quick steps, touching the tip until it stops. If at the same time you did not feel any vibrations radiating into your hand, then you made the right choice.
Material
- Aluminum. Scandinavian sticks are rarely made from this material. And it’s better not to buy ones made from it, because aluminum does not cope well with vibrations. This is not so important and noticeable if you are exercising on snow, but if you are exercising on asphalt terrain, discomfort will arise.
- Carbon. Poles made of this material are much stronger than aluminum ones. Plus, they will last you quite a long time, as they absorb vibrations well and weigh a little.
- Fiberglass. Scandinavian poles made from this material transmit the least amount of vibration and are practically weightless in the hands. However, they are not very durable and often break.
Pen
- Cork. This handle is considered one of the most comfortable. The material does not cause allergies.
- Rubber. The material (a mixture of rubber and cork) provides a comfortable grip and fit, so your hand will not slip.
- Plastic. The most uncomfortable handle. Plastic is not able to absorb sweat, so the hand constantly slips and the person experiences discomfort.
Lanyards
Many Scandinavian walking poles include lanyards. They can be in the form of half gloves or peculiar traps. They are needed to make it comfortable for you to hold the sticks in your hands. Plus, lanyards take stress off your wrists. But to do this, they must fit tightly around your hands and hold your wrist without squeezing them. It is best to choose removable lanyards. Then you can easily drink water or take off your jacket, for example, without removing your hands from the lanyards.
When choosing lanyards, it is also important to look at the circumference of your palm. They should be about half as large. If the girth is 20 cm, then the lanyard should be approximately 9-10 cm. Also look at the material and fabric from which it is made. It should not be too hard so as not to rub your hand.
Tip
You need to choose a tip based on where you plan to train. The hard metal tip is considered universal. With it you can train on any road.
Tungsten or carbide tips are suitable for training on loose soil, sandy or dirt roads. There are models of Scandinavian sticks with replaceable tips. Therefore, they can be purchased separately.
Rubber or carbon tips are suitable for walking on hard asphalt, concrete, tiles or cobblestone roads.
The nuances of choosing ski lengths for children and adults. Tables and recommendations.
Winter is an amazing time of year. In addition to the beauty of the landscapes shimmering with snow, we enjoy active recreation in the fresh air.
Fortunately, a lot of activities have been invented for such a purpose. One of them is skiing.
For ordinary people who are far from serious sports, the task of choosing skis sometimes seems simple. However, in this matter there are a number of significant points that require attention. Especially for children's models.
Let's dwell on the nuances correct selection skis and ski poles in more detail.
How to choose skis and ski poles according to the height and weight of a child and an adult: table
types of skiing and the scheme for their correct selection for men, women and childrenBefore you start selecting skis for your child or yourself, think about whether you will practice regularly. It may be enough to stop at a one-time pleasure and rent them where you plan to ride.
If this option is not for you and you want to introduce your child to healthy winter activities, then take note of a number of parameters:
- Type of terrain for skiing. For hills you need mountain models, for plains - running or classic ones.
- Children's weight. If he is above 40 kg, be guided by the selection of skis as for an adult,
- The height and age of the child.
- Skating skills.
- Ski stiffness. “Soft” models are ideal for the beginner athlete. The lower it is, the cheaper and easier the skis to use.
- Material. Wooden skis don't work well in warm weather, while plastic skis are very slippery and without a sufficient number of anti-slip notches are unacceptable for a child to buy.
Ski poles are not needed at all for preschool children, since the latter’s task is to learn how to stay on skis. If the child is older, take sticks that reach his armpits or, at most, his shoulders.
Be sure to consider:
- the presence of straps on the handle to secure the hands
- no sharp tip at the bottom to prevent the baby from getting hurt while riding
When choosing skis and ski poles for adults, consider the following points:
- Ski length depends on your height. On average, it should exceed it by 20-25 cm.
- The type of ski depends on the terrain, the conditions on it and your skiing skills. If you want to enjoy the scenery at an easy pace, the classic is your choice. And if you want to drive and master the maneuvers of sharp turns - only sports models.
- Length of poles. Again, when choosing, the guideline is your height. Feel free to buy poles that are 25-30 cm lower than you.
Below are tables to help with this issue:
table for selecting skis for adults and children depending on weight and height, example 1 
Scheme for selecting skis for a child and an adult depending on weight and height, example 2 
recommendations and table for selecting ski poles 
table for selecting skis and ski poles depending on weight and height, example 3 How to choose the correct length of cross-country skis and ski poles for children and adults?
a child skis on properly selected cross-country skis - Age. The younger the child masters the snowy expanses, the easier it is to take on skis. For example, if he doesn’t have the skills yet, short soft skis are suitable, they are also called “fitted”. They do not develop great speed, but they will help the child hone the skills of entering turns and developing the correct position of the knees.
- Weight. The starting point is 40 kg. If your little one has not reached it yet, choose children's models; if he has crossed the threshold, choose adult models.
- Skating skills. The higher their level, the more differences in choise. In general, there are 3 types of skis: for beginners, intermediate levels and advanced athletes. This gradation continues for adult models.
- Ski length. Take the table data from the previous section as a basis. General rule- skis in vertical position should reach the chin or nose for a beginner skier, and rise 20 cm above the head. The second option is acceptable from an intermediate level. If your child skis well, feel free to choose skis that are 15-20 cm taller than his height.
Ski poles are needed from the age of schoolchildren. Before this, the baby hones his skating skills without them. For cross-country skis perfect length sticks - up to the shoulders.
selection of cross-country skis and ski poles for them for adults and children, table How to choose the correct length of skis and skating ski poles for children and adults?
a group of adults skate skiing on a flat surface Those who have perfectly mastered the technique of gliding on classic skis can safely buy skate skis. This applies to both adults and children.
As for the length of skate skis, take them 10 centimeters more than your height. And the poles, on the contrary, are 10-15 cm shorter. In other words, the latter will rise slightly above shoulder level.
For clarity, we add a table:
selection of skating skis for children and adults by height, table How to choose the correct length of classic skis and ski poles for children and adults?
mother and baby skiing classic skiing without ski poles at a ski resort For classic skiing, it will be more convenient for both children and adults if:
- the length of the poles is 25-30 cm shorter and they rest against the skier’s armpits
- ski length exceeds height by 20-30 cm
We add a table below for orientation:
table for selecting skis and ski poles for classic skiing for adults and teenagers 
table for selecting skis and ski poles for classic skiing for adults and children So, we looked at the features of choosing skis and ski poles for children and adults for different levels riding experience and skills. We also added a number of tables for orientation in this matter.
If you are buying skis for your child or yourself for the first time, listen to the recommendations of a consultant in a specialized store. And remember that buying skis and poles for children for future use is a bad idea and just a waste of money.
Enjoy your holiday and skiing!
Video: how to choose the right skis for a child?
Skiing is one of the most popular sports activities in winter period. But for those who have just decided to try skiing, a logical question arises - how to choose skis and poles? You need to select them according to your height.
To begin with, let's still decide what exactly you want to do - cross-country running or learn to go down the mountains? Sports are far from the same, they differ greatly from each other, and the parameters for choosing sports equipment in them are also, accordingly, different.
In skiing, there are several methods of skiing, each of which has separate types of racing skis. First of all, these are the classic icon methods. Also, in sports stores you can find recreational skis for ordinary fans. active rest. Now, let's figure out how to select them according to your height.
If you are serious about this sport, then classic and skating skis are at your service. The main rule for choosing them is approximately this: if the main method of skiing is classic, then the skis should be 20-30 centimeters higher than your height. For the ridge method, this figure is approximately two times less. As for recreational skis, their size should be 15-20 centimeters larger than your height. However, so that you don’t get too confused in the measurements, we provide a table with all the necessary values.
Table for selecting ski lengths
What about the sticks? For them, too, there is a separate classification according to which they should be selected. Poles for the classic move should be 25-30 centimeters shorter than your height. For skating skis, poles are chosen that are 15-20 centimeters smaller than the athlete.
Table for selecting the length of poles
(cm) Length of poles for
classic stroke (cm) Length of poles for
ridge travel (cm)
If you are planning to put your child on skis, then it is worth remembering that the method of selecting skis is in this case slightly different from the standard one. The determining role in the choice of sports equipment for children weighing up to 40 kilograms is not height, as in adults, but weight. If your child weighs from 10 to 20 kilograms, then skis 70-80 centimeters tall are suitable for him. For guys in the weight category from 20 to 30 kilograms, skis with a length of 90 centimeters are optimal. For children weighing from 30 to 40 kilograms, you should buy meter skis. As for the sticks, everything is the same as for adults - they should be 25-30 centimeters less height child.
Speaking of mountain skis, we note that their selection depends not only on your height and weight, but also on the conditions in which you are going to use them. For non-professionals, manufacturers divide skis into three categories: carving, which are divided into fan carving (allowing you to turn almost lying down) and autocarving (have a lightweight steering system), freeride and universal. Carving ones are intended for those who ride on prepared slopes. For those who like to travel over rough mountainous terrain, we advise you to take freeride skis. However, skiing on them is almost inaccessible for beginners due to their complexity. So-called universal skis are suitable for them, which can be ridden almost anywhere.
Table for selecting alpine skis according to your needs
Recently, wide opportunities for children to engage in skiing have appeared in our country. Naturally, a child also needs to carefully select equipment according to his height and weight. Note that children's skis range in size from 70 to 120 centimeters. As a rule, unlike adults, they have a simplified design, without control amplifiers and other things. Below we provide an approximate table of selection of alpine skis for children.
Ski poles are used to make turns easier, but many people do not know how to use them and carry them with them as a necessary attribute and to maintain balance during après ski. Today we will tell you how to choose the right size of poles for skiing.
How to choose ski poles according to height
Ski poles are produced different lengths, with different bends and different ring diameters.
Based on materials, sticks are divided into:
Aluminum- such sticks are first deformed, and only then, with strong pressure on them, they break or remain bent.
Composite— when critical deformation occurs, they immediately break.
Fiberglass and carbon fiber— they break very quickly, especially if the ski edge accidentally cuts.
Atomic ski poles
There are also special curved sticks. Curved poles are used by ski athletes for downhill and giant slalom. High speed is the main goal of such competitions. To reduce snow resistance, they make super-fast skis, and to combat air resistance, they make super-slippery suits. The most modern downhill poles are curved along a tricky curve, not in one plane, but in three at once.
A ski pole has four main parts: a handle to hold it, a tip to poke, a ring to keep the pole from sinking into soft snow, and a shaft to hold it all together.
It is worth noting that it is very important to choose the correct length of the ski pole - without this you will not get a good balanced stance and a calm position of the upper body. To determine the correct length, wear ski boots and stand up, holding a stick in your hand, point up. The handle of the stick touches
On a slope, always thread your hand through the lanyard. This way you won't be able to lose your stick, and the unevenness of the trail won't knock it out of your hands. If you lose a stick ring, replace it immediately! Without a ring on your stick, your skiing technique will quickly deteriorate: after all, you won’t be able to judge by eye the depth of the stick’s immersion in the snow.
To select the length you need, take the model you like. Stand up straight. Take the stick by the handle (it is not necessary to wear a lanyard), and place the pin of the stick on the floor. If at the same time your forearm and shoulder form almost a right angle, then the length is chosen correctly. Otherwise, choose a shorter or longer stick.
140-145 cm 100 cm
147-152 cm 105 cm
155-160 cm 110 cm
162-165 cm 115 cm
167-172 cm 120 cm
175-180 cm 125 cm
182-187 cm 130 cm
190 cm 135 cm
We wish Enjoy the shopping and great riding!
