The best ski poles of 2026

Pole of the Year Race - Leki Mezza Ultralite

The two standout features here are the quality of the grip—superior to the ATK’s thanks to the cork and quick-release harness strap, which speeds up many maneuvers—and its basket, which, like the ATK, is well-shaped to provide optimum support on uneven backcountry terrain while still being easy to free from holes. Full carbon pole, without the Kevlar spirals that protect the lower part of the ATK model. The cross-country feel of this entire range of pole makes it equally suited to Nordic and roller skiing. Still one of the best choices among the few true 100% race models out there. There are pros and cons between the traditional strap and this detachable harness strap, which ultimately comes down to personal preference. 

Price €160 Available sizes 110 > 150 cm every 5 cm Tip widia chisel Shaft material carbon fiber Basket x-country Basket diameter 70 mm Handle material cork, plastic Measured weight 148 g

Pole of the Year Light - Zag South

A great one-piece pole. The wrist strap webbing is thin and minimalist, but just stiff enough to avoid twisting and stay put. Strap length is adjusted by flipping the button on the head. It features a tear-away safety release system and beautifully contoured, firm foam grip. Very well balanced despite the large basket which has just the right flex to adapt to the snow surface and a long enough tip to ensure it grips well. It may seem counterintuitive, but based on our interpretation of the Light class (meaning nice style and clean lines), we’re choosing this as the best pole of the year for light touring. 

Price €79.90 Available sizes 110 > 130 cm every 5 cm Tip round hollow Widia Shaft material aluminum Basket round with five petals Basket diameter 95 mm Handle material foam Measured weight 212 g

Pole of the Year Tour - Salomon Steep Prime Vario S3

A one-hundred-percent function-oriented pole. The solid, well-contoured handle includes 50 cm of foam grip extending right down to the lock. The basket has just the right flex and its eight sides are sharp and rigid enough to scrape snow off surfaces easily. Plus the teeth on the underside ensure reliable grip. The harness strap features a safety release mechanism. Pure hi-tech-styled aesthetics, designed by people who know the mountains. We think it's the best tool for touring at the moment.

Price €180 Available sizes one size, 100-135 cm Tip round hollow Widia Shaft material carbon fiber, Kevlar Basket octagonal Basket diameter 90 mm Handle material foam, rubberized plastic Measured weight 325 g

Pole of the Year Free - Spitfire Vario 3D

80's-style eye-catching colors. Compared to the fixed-length model, the two-piece offers a more-than-acceptable compromise for backcountry freeriding, given that the (nice) grip lacks an elongated grip zone. The wrist strap has a quick-release system and Trigger safety mechanism with ergonomic mesh and handy release button. It comes with two baskets, of which the Big Mountain is soft and perfect for powder. Nice, unobtrusive clamp mechanism. For riders who like the feel of an on-piste setup. Ideal also for ski instructors. There's also a fixed-length version, but we're giving the award to this two-section pole as there fashionable and we like them.  

Price €120 Available sizes one size, 110-140 cm Tip cylindrical concave-head Widia Shaft material aluminum Basket round Basket diameter 100 mm Handle material rubber Measured weight 283 g