K2 Sports is a sporting goods company that sells ski and snowboard equipment. The company has 16 brands of ski and snowboard specialty products, equipment and clothing. K2 ski poles come in 20 different types made for four different skiing styles. Poles are available for speed, backside, Karat and factory team skiers. K2 ski poles come in men's, women's and children's sizes.
Pole Type
Cross-country skiers will want an adventure pole that can handle the extra stress of climbing different terrain. Speed freaks and downhillers need light, durable poles that do not weigh them down and are strong enough to handle high speeds and fast turns. K2 makes performance poles, adventure poles, women's poles, children's poles and factory poles built for any terrain. Beginners only need a basic pole, which is less expensive than a high-performance pole.
Pole Size
The way to size the correct K2 ski pole for your height is to stand and bring the poles to the side of your body. The correct size ski pole for general use will come up to your armpits. Adjustable poles are good for backcountry skiing because you will need different lengths for steep terrains and for downhill skiing. If your poles are too short, you will overreach and tire faster than you will if your poles are the correct size. Wear your ski boots when measuring for pole size. Ski boots make you taller. If you do not have your boots with you, add 2 inches to the measurement.
Basket Size
The basket on a ski pole is a disk-shaped piece of rubber attached near the tip of the pole. The basket keeps the pole tip from sinking too deeply into the snow. K2 ski poles have various-sized baskets. Smaller baskets are for tracked trails and groomed snow. The large baskets are better for off-trail skiing.
Pole Handles
Materials for K2 ski pole handles include hand-stitched leather, rubber over chrome grips and rubber handgrips. The type of grip you choose depends on how much you want to spend and what options are available for the particular K2 ski pole you choose.
Member Comments