Cross country skiing can be an exhilarating sport. The fresh, cool mountain air and the dynamic movements involved in the skating technique offers a rigorous and effective workout for many muscles in your body. Knowing what size of poles to use helps you improve your speed and get the most out of each stride.
Background
The website ABC of Skiing explains the three types of cross-country skiing. Classical is the first style. You slide one ski forward and place your pole in the ground with the arm on the same side. The telemark technique is used when going downhill. The skating technique is similar to the movement in ice skating where you push off diagonally and utilize a rhythmic movement of gliding and kicking. It is generally faster than the classical style. Use boots with strong ankle support, longer poles and shorter skis for skating technique.
Pole Length and Strength
When skate skiing, your poles should come up to your lips, according the NGIN website. Even though you'll be using longer poles when skating, excessive length will not make you a stronger skiier. You still need to be able to smoothly plant your pole in the snow and return it to starting position. Poles that are too long can be difficult to control, which can cause poor form.
Pole Length and Height
The Skinny Skis website (see "Resources") has created a sizing chart to help determine what size poles to use for the skating technique. For example, if you are 72 inches tall you should be using poles that are about 65 inches. If you are 64 inches tall, your poles should be 56 inches. As a general rule, your poles should be about 7 or 8 inches shorter than you.
Ski Length
Skating skis should be about 15 cm longer than your height. Classic skis need to be much longer, about 27 cm longer than you, according to the Akers Ski website. When determing what size boots to wear, stand up and make sure your big toe is slightly touching the boot's front.
Considerations
When choosing ski gear, determine what type of skiing you want to participate in. It is also a good idea to have a professional size you up for skis, poles and boots before you make sure you have gear that fits properly.
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