Pole test: how we test
A firm grip! The art where fingertip feel makes the difference. Which touring pole should it be for the coming winter, and what should you look for when buying? As part of the BACKLINE test, our testers tried out all the touring poles over five days each season and assessed them against many relevant criteria.
Testers
Every tester invited to the BACKLINE test contributes many years of in-depth experience in skiing, whether as an athlete, instructor, coach, mountain guide or ski guide. All are passionate ski tourers with an enduring curiosity about equipment developments and trends.
Testers who work as influencers for participating companies, are under contract with them or receive equipment from them free of charge were excluded from rating those partners' products to avoid potential bias and distortion of the results.
The testers examined
- the adjustability of length and straps
- the functionality of the baskets
- the ergonomics of the grips
- the comfort of the straps
- the stiffness of the poles
Comparative data
In addition to the test results, we compiled comparative data – RRP, pole lengths, packed size, shaft materials and information on the systems used to adjust pole length and straps.
We also state whether a pole model is equipped with a safety system that releases the strap in critical situations. This information can be helpful when making a purchase decision.
The total score indicates the overall performance of the poles. The RRP and the euro-per-point coefficient show how many euros you pay at the official RRP for one point in the overall test result.
Five scoring categories, up to 20 points each
Weight – up to 20 points (editorially determined)
All poles were weighed including the baskets. Weight figures refer to a single pole. The conversion to a 0 to 20 point scale takes into account the heaviest and lightest poles we have tested over the past seven years.
Handling: length & strap adjustment – up to 20 points (tested)
All manufacturers use a clamping system to adjust pole length. Clamping usually works smoothly, but readjusting the clamping force may require tools. Some manufacturers require a flathead or Phillips screwdriver, while a dial mechanism is particularly user-friendly.
We recommend taking a close look at the available lengths and choosing a variant with more headroom at the top end. When long flat sections in the valley have to be covered – which happens often – you will appreciate an extra ten centimetres. Straps can usually be adjusted easily via Velcro or threading, while some manufacturers use a clamping system in the pole head.
Basket functionality – up to 20 points (tested)
The industry has expanded the functionality of pole baskets: in addition to flotation in deep snow, modern baskets offer extra features such as snow scrapers, folding mechanisms or ball joints that adapt to the slope angle. Basket interchangeability was also included in the scoring.
Grip & strap comfort – up to 20 points (tested)
Pole straps are sometimes padded, sometimes purist and weight-optimised webbing. Some manufacturers score with safety systems that release the strap from the pole under critical load – for example in a fall or a burial.
All poles offer an ergonomic platform on top of the grip, but these differ in size and shape. Some platform shapes are specifically suited to adjusting the climbing aid on the binding. Grip length and construction, as well as a useful lower grip zone, also differ. These can be chosen according to personal preference.
Stiffness – up to 20 points (tested)
Pole stiffness may be of minor relevance for featherweights. From 80 kilograms of body weight upwards, and especially for tall riders using poles at the upper end of the length scale, stiffness deserves a closer look.
Most manufacturers use carbon and aluminium for the shafts – either pure or as a hybrid – while a few use Titanal. Carbon convinces with excellent stiffness and low weight. Aluminium, on the other hand, is less sensitive to contact with sharp ski edges, especially in the lower third of the pole.
How stars are awarded (editorially determined)
The best roughly 20 % of the touring poles in each test category received a star.
In addition, a star was awarded to the poles with the most total points. A further award went to the models with the best euro-per-point ratio – not necessarily the cheapest models, but those that convinced on both price and overall performance.