How to Buy Telescopic Poles for Snowshoeing

Telescopic poles are a great snowshoeing addition. Lengthen them for uphill and flat snowshoeing, shorten them for going downhill and then collapse them and shove them in your pack.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Ski Hats
• Warm Clothes
• Ski Gloves
• Snowshoes
• Telescopic Poles

1. Visit the local backcountry or ski equipment store or surf the Web for a retailer online.
2. Look for poles that will adjust to your height. The poles should extend to your shoulder and are used at this height for climbing uphill.
3. Flip the pole upside down, stand up and bend an elbow to 90 degrees. The poles should be able to shorten to the height of your hands and are used in this position for snowshoeing downhill.
4. Test different models of poles to find a comfortable pole weight.
5. Look at how the pole adjusts. Make sure it's easy to do while wearing gloves or mittens.

Tips & Warnings

• Some models of telescopic poles can be transformed into avalanche probes by removing the baskets.
• Telescopic poles can also be used for telemark skiing, cross-country skiing, and hiking.