MATERIALS - Beginner poles are usually aluminum. Reasonably light and much cheaper than graphite or carbon fiber poles, they are practical choices for the novice skier. But even before buying any equiptment, check out pole rentals, instead of spending an excess of $100 on poles that might not suit your future skiing interests. As a skier's skill advances, he or she will be able to make a more informed investment in nordic or downhill poles.

STRAPS - When buying your poles, straps are an important thing to consider. Dependind on you skill level, a restrictive strap might or might not be suitable. Beginners should be wary of "over using" their poles. Instructors often snatch the poles of their novice skiers and shove them down the hill without the equiptment.

As beginners tend to struggle for balance with their arm strength, going down gentle slopes without poles will develop a more natural balance. Straps that detach from poles, or that extend are a good idea for new skiers (or dare devils). If the pole is ever caught or pulled from the body, hopefully, nothing ugly will happen...

HANDLES - Widely available now are handles whose design is based on the biomechanics of the human hand. Since the gripping power of the hand is concentrated in the three lower fingers (mid to middle), pole handles are padded for a more comfortable grip. The forefinger is used primarily for control and directing the pole's movements. High-friction surfaces on these areas prevents slipping and loss of balance. All these characteristics provide better contact and control during carving motions.