How to Use Adjustable Ski Poles for Backcountry Skiing
By Feathered Friends | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to set up and adjust your adjustable ski poles for backcountry skiing, including length settings, grip position, and terrain-based adjustments.
Quick Answer
For backcountry skiing, set your adjustable ski poles to a length that lets your elbows sit at a 90-degree angle when planted, then adjust shorter for steep climbs and longer for descents. Use the extended grip to fine-tune on the move.
Why Adjustable Poles Matter for Backcountry Skiing
Backcountry terrain is rarely flat. You'll transition from climbing steep slopes to traversing ridges and skiing down variable snow. Fixed-length poles force you to compromise, but adjustable ski poles let you match pole length to the task, reducing fatigue and improving balance.
Most adjustable poles use either a telescoping design or a quick-adjust grip. Telescoping poles like the Backcountry GT offer a wide range of lengths, while grip-adjust models like the Wyeast Ski Poles let you change effective length by shifting your hand position—ideal for rapid transitions.
Trade-offs: Telescoping vs. Grip-Adjust Poles
Telescoping poles give you the most range and are great for mixed activities like hiking and skiing, but they require stopping to adjust. Grip-adjust poles are faster but offer a smaller range of adjustment, making them best for skiers who mainly need minor tweaks during a tour.
Consider your primary use. If you plan to use the same poles for hiking and skiing, a telescoping model like the DynaLock Explore Backcountry Poles offers versatility. If you're focused on skiing and want quick changes, a grip-adjust pole might be more efficient.
Step-by-Step: Using Adjustable Ski Poles in the Backcountry
- Set your baseline length: Stand on flat ground with the pole tip on the snow. Adjust the pole so your elbow forms a 90-degree angle when you grip the handle. This is your all-purpose length for climbing and traversing. Check both poles are the same length—use the graduated markings if available.
- Shorten for steep climbs: For steep uphill sections, shorten your poles by 5-10 cm (or move your hand down the extended grip) to plant them more vertically and pull yourself up efficiently. This reduces strain on your shoulders and improves leverage. Avoid shortening too much; you still need enough length to push off without bending over excessively.
- Lengthen for descents: Before skiing down, lengthen your poles back to baseline or slightly longer (up to 5 cm) to help with balance and pole plants during turns. Longer poles give you more reach for planting in variable snow. If you're skiing through trees, keep poles slightly shorter to prevent snagging on branches.
- Adjust on the move with grip-adjust poles: If your poles have an extended grip like the Wyeast, practice sliding your hand up or down the grip to change effective length without stopping. This is handy for short, rolling terrain where stopping would slow you down. Make sure your grip is secure before planting; a loose grip can cause the pole to slip.
- Secure the locking mechanism: After each adjustment, ensure the locking mechanism is fully engaged. Test by pressing the pole tip into the snow and applying weight. A loose lock can cause the pole to collapse at a critical moment. If the lock feels loose, tighten it before continuing—don't wait for it to fail.
Poles That Make Backcountry Adjustments Easier
- Wyeast Ski Poles: The Wyeast Ski Poles feature an extended EVA ergonomic grip that lets you adjust pole length on the go by simply changing hand position. This allows quick adjustments without stopping, which is helpful when terrain changes frequently during a tour.
Wyeast Ski Poles - Backcountry GT Poles: The Backcountry GT uses a telescoping design with a fast, secure locking system and graduated lower segments for precise adjustment. Graduated markings make it easy to set both poles to the same length quickly, saving time during transitions.
Backcountry GT Poles - DynaLock™ Explore Backcountry Poles: The DynaLock Explore Backcountry Poles are 3-section fully adjustable aluminum poles that extend from 64 to 140 cm. This wide range suits both hiking and skiing, and aluminum construction offers durability in demanding conditions.
