Calculate ski pole length from your height in cm or inches using the 70% rule, then see the nearest 5 cm alpine pole size to buy.
Alpine Ski Pole Length Formula
LEKI’s alpine starting relationship uses about 70% of height including footwear. This calculator compares that unrounded estimate with nominal 5 cm lengths and shows both adjacent choices at a true half-step. The nearest-size and both-choice display are this calculator’s comparison policy; manufacturer between-size advice can differ.
How the Calculation Works
Convert standing height including footwear to centimeters, check the calculator’s 120–220 cm range, and multiply by 0.70. Compare the formula value with nominal 5 cm increments. These are comparison lengths, not a guarantee that the chosen model is sold in each size.
How to Use This Calculator
- Measure standing height including the footwear you will use.
- Enter that height and select centimeters or inches.
- Select Calculate and review the formula estimate, nominal options and physical fit check.
- Use Reset to clear the height and this calculator’s saved calculation.
Worked Example
For a standing height of 175 cm including footwear, the formula estimate is 122.5 cm, exactly halfway between nominal 120 cm and 125 cm lengths. The calculator displays “120 or 125 cm” as two separate comparison options for a physical fit check; actual availability and manufacturer guidance can differ.
Input and Result Guide
| Item | How to use it |
|---|---|
| Height | Enter standing height including footwear in centimeters or inches. |
| Exact estimate | The unrounded height-times-0.70 result. |
| Stock size | The nearest common 5 cm length, or both adjacent lengths at an exact half-step. |
| Physical check | On level ground with knees slightly bent, invert the pole so its grip rests on the floor. Hold the shaft directly below the basket and check for an elbow near 90 degrees. |
Interpreting the Result
The nominal comparison is a first fitting check, not an availability or personalized-fit guarantee. Check the exact model’s lengths. Moguls, racing, freeride use, technique and personal posture can favor another size.
Assumptions and Limitations
This method is for alpine skiing. Cross-country and trekking poles use different proportions and should not be sized with this result.
Common Questions
Why is this a starting recommendation?
Equipment fit varies by model, construction, conditions, and personal preference. The result narrows the search; it does not replace the exact product chart or a professional fitting.
Will my last successful calculation be restored?
Yes, when browser storage is available. A successful Calculate saves a structured input snapshot; returning to the page recomputes the restored result from it. Unsaved edits do not replace that snapshot. Reset clears this calculator’s saved state.
Sources
LEKI alpine 70% starting relationship; LEKI pole-length advisor and footwear basis; LEKI USA inverted-pole fitting guidance. The calculator’s nearest-5 cm and both-choice tie display do not replace the manufacturer’s between-size recommendation.
