Most ski poles will cost somewhere between $50 to $150. High-end options can cost over $150, but a new set will rarely be cheaper than $50 unless you find a used option.
I’m a lifelong skier with a true passion for the sport. I’ve purchased every piece of equipment you can imagine and have a good understanding of how much everything costs – including ski poles.
In this post, I’ll tell you how much ski poles cost while also providing you with some other information to keep in mind when shopping for a new pair.
Let’s get after it.
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Ski Pole Cost
I’ve probably purchased several dozen pairs of ski poles over the years. I’ve spent anywhere from $50 to $200 on them, depending on what style of pole I wanted or needed.
The most basic aluminum poles will be the cheaper option and typically cost $50 to $75. I’ve seen them for a little cheaper every once in a while, but $50 is a good starting point if you are trying to make a budget.
Higher-end poles can cost anywhere from $100 to $200 or more. These will be made out of carbon fiber, which is a very strong but lightweight material. It’s highly durable, and the poles can bend without breaking or getting stuck in that position.
More expensive poles can have other features like breakaway straps, multiple basket options, or ergonomic designs that might make them more appealing. These extras make them more expensive.
How Much Should You Pay for Ski Poles?
How much you should pay for ski poles depends on your budget and needs as a skier.
If you are on a budget and want to go with the cheapest option available, aluminum poles will work just fine. These will keep the cost from $50 to $100.
Aluminum poles may not be fancy, but they get the job done. They can be more affordable, but they aren’t quite as durable as more expensive options. If you take a terrible fall and bend one, you really can’t straighten it back out.
If you want to spend a bit more money, you will be able to get a pole that is stronger, lighter, and more durable. Even though it might cost more money upfront, this can be a better value in the long run.
Carbon fiber poles will cost you $100 to $200 but will provide you with excellent performance you can rely on. You won’t need to worry about breaking them because carbon fiber can bend without breaking and return to its original shape.
If you are a ski racer or ski often, I recommend spending more money and going with a more expensive set of poles. The lighter weight and increased durability will pay off.
How to Save Money on Ski Poles
Ski poles are one of the only pieces of skiing equipment that you can buy used without worry. If you search on resale sights or thrift stores, you can usually find a decent set of ski poles for pretty cheap.
If you do buy used poles, just make sure they are straight!
FAQs
Here are a few short answers to some common questions related to the cost of ski poles.
What type of ski poles should I get?
Aluminum poles are the most common and affordable type of ski poles. They can work for any skier on a budget or anyone who isn’t concerned about weight. Carbon fiber poles are better for experienced skiers, but they are more expensive.
Are good ski poles worth it?
If you aren’t on a strict budget and ski often, good ski poles are definitely worth it. A good set of poles can last you for years, and they will be much more durable than a cheap pair. This increases their overall value.
Conclusion
The average set of ski poles can cost anywhere from $50 to $150. Cheaper options will be made of aluminum and won’t be as durable or light. More expensive poles are made of carbon fiber and offer superior strength while also being really light.
You don’t need to spend a lot of money on ski poles, but if you are a serious skier, it’s a good idea to invest in a high-quality pair.
