Backcountry ski poles and baskets

Looking to round out your backcountry skiing kit? Ski poles and baskets are a great addition to any trip, offering a variety of benefits to your balance, energy levels and ease of movement in all kinds of skiing.

How to choose ski poles

You’ve got a few factors to consider when you’re shopping for ski poles. For backcountry skiing, adjustable poles are a great option to keep up with changing conditions. To find a set of poles with the right length range for you, check out our article on how to choose and size ski poles so you know what you’re looking for.

The size of your snow baskets is also important to consider. It’ll affect how much float you get – bigger baskets will stop your poles from sinking into powder, but smaller ones are a little easier to handle. Smaller baskets are also great if you want your poles doing double duty as trekking poles in the warmer months.

Finally, the material of your ski poles will affect how they perform. Aluminum is most common but can deform under continuous pressure and might bend out of shape. Carbon is a little more expensive but much better at recovering its shape after it bends.

Want to make sure you’re ready for your trip? Take a look through our ski touring checklist for those last few odds and ends.