You can spend up to $200 on poles, but these designs are for high-mileage track skiers who want to cut pole weight for that extra edge in speed and endurance. Beginners can get by just fine with the $20 variety. You do have a couple of choices to make in selecting the appropriate poles, however. First is basket design, of which there are two varieties.

"Hoof"-style baskets, so-called for the animal-hoof shape imprint they leave in the snow, are the more popular design. The relatively small, asymmetric basket is best suited for skiing groomed trails or firm snow.

Traditional baskets are round and larger to give greater support in the loose-powder conditions found in going off trail. On groomed or firm snow the baskets tend to drag in the snow.

The second choice is in pole length. Correct pole length depends on three factors: your height, skill level, and the terrain you expect to encounter. The hillier the terrain or the less experience you have, the shorter your poles should be. Good skiers in flat terrain like their poles a little longer. For all-purpose use, look for poles that stand somewhere between shoulder and armpit. If you decide to try longer or shorter poles, remember that a couple of inches either way can make a big difference. Poles that are too long are awkward to swing; overly short poles won't let you stride out to the full extent of your abilities.

Buying tip: Avoid buying white baskets. On that rare occasion when a basket falls off, you'll find a black basket more easily. In fact, avoid buying any white clothing, equipment, or accessories.

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