This year you have decided that you would like to take up Nordic skiing! Whether in the Skate-Style or Classic mode, this sport is both fun and complete muscular exercise and it is becoming more and more popular. Step 1: Equipment. The key to success lies above all in the choice of equipment. In skate-style or classic style the criteria to be considered in the choice of poles are the following: your technical level, your physical form and your build (height and weight).

Depending on the technique you wish to practice, Skate-Style or Classic, your choice of poles will not be the same.

Skate-Style: For Skate-Style, the pole should finish above the shoulder in order to have the longest possible thrust using both arms simultaneously knowing that this is equivalent to the height of the person minus about 20 cm or the height multiplied by 0.89.

Classic: For the Classic style, the pole should finish at the height of the shoulder knowing that this is equivalent on average to the height of the person minus 30 cm or the height multiplied by 0.84.

Touring: For Touring, the pole should finish below the shoulder. In fact, for this style of skiing the pole should be very maneuverable and should help the skier to keep his or her balance both on and off-piste. On average this is equivalent to the height of the skier minus 35 cm or the height of the skier multiplied by 0.78.

COMPOSITION OF THE POLE

A Nordic ski pole is divided into 4 parts, the shaft, the strap, the grip and the basket. The Shaft: Aluminum makes the pole sturdy and robust à these poles are perfect for the beginner or for those who are looking for sturdiness and reliability.

Glass fiber is lighter and more flexible than aluminum à these poles are suitable for beginners and experienced skiers who are looking for a pole that is both light and strong.

Carbon fiber poles are very sturdy, rigid and light, and have the best performance à these poles are suitable for competitors and those looking for performance. Straps:

There are 2 types of strap, "Ergonomic" straps and "Biathlon" straps. The "Ergonomic" strap is suitable for those with a style that does not require the pole to be removed regularly.

The "Biathlon" strap is suitable for beginners or those who have to remove the poles often, as in Backcountry skiing for example.

The Grip: Choose your grip in accordance with your level of technique knowing that: - "Natural Cork" is suitable for competitors searching for light weight - "Natural Cork Grip" is suitable for experienced skiers looking for a balance between weight and sturdiness. - "Rubber - Plastic Grip" is suitable for those looking for a sturdy and resistant grip.

The Basket: There is a different type of basket for each style. The more you wish to go off-piste, the larger your basket should be. For competition or for skiing on hard and compact snow a small size basket is preferable, whereas if you are expecting to go off the beaten track you should choose a larger size basket which will be suitable for taking you off the powder snow pistes.

GUIDE TO SIZE TABLES

If you are in doubt between 2 sizes, beginners should choose a slightly smaller pole and experienced skiers a slightly larger pole.