Wrist Straps

[Greg]

I went several years without using them. Now not using them correctly feels like driving without a seat belt.

 

[wa-loaf]

Yep, feels weird not using them. I guess you are suppose to not use them for tree skiing, but I never remember to.

 

[SkiDork]

I use them. People that ski trees a lot seem to not like using them in there.

 

[drjeff]

I went several years without using them. Now not using them correctly feels like driving without a seat belt.

+1. The amount of support you can get from a properly used pole strap is amazing, especially in that ever so often "pole plant for life" recovery. Plus, the strap really helps keep the pole in position to make the next plant (especially important in the bumps)

Unless I'm skiing in some tight trees where underbrush is likely, the straps are on

 

[kcyanks1]

I use them. People that ski trees a lot seem to not like using them in there.

I got new poles last year that have a releasable strap. So if the pole gets caught (like in the trees) the strap will come off the pole. Previously, I would sometimes take off my poles when going into the trees, but not always.

 

[2knees]

180 showed me the light. one of the easiest and quickest fixes anyone has ever shown me. improved my hand position even.

 

[Greg]

180 showed me the light. one of the easiest and quickest fixes anyone has ever shown me. improved my hand position even.

Gaper.

 

[Glenn]

I use them. I put the slack under my palm so the strap is snug on my wrist. I drag my poles when I make big turns....kinda ape like I guess. My baskets get all chewed up.

 

[bigbog]

Maybe for in-resort I should've re-thought it, but as I did 99% of skiing off-resort up here....much safer to hold em'...on the descent that is. ..Just this one inconvenience to skiing off-resort.
$.01

 

[skiadikt]

i'm the only one in my krewe who uses them. doesn't feel right when i don't. mine breakaway. didn't know there was a correct way ...

 

[umby]

I use mine, but I have those scott team issue poles with the white leather strap. The strap even on the tightest setting barely does anything to keep my hand in there.

 

[wa-loaf]

I use mine, but I have those scott team issue poles with the white leather strap. The strap even on the tightest setting barely does anything to keep my hand in there.

Step 1 - Begin by holding one ski pole by the safety strap coming out of the back of the handle.

Step 2 - Put your free hand upwards through the safety strap with your fingers and thumb separated into a "V."

Step 3 - Bring your hand downward allowing the safety strap to rest against the palm of your hand in the V between your thumb and your index finger.

Step 4 - When your hand is even with the ski pole handle and the strap is between your thumb and index finger, close your fingers around the ski pole grip.

 

[Ski Diva]

I got new poles last year that have a releasable strap. So if the pole gets caught (like in the trees) the strap will come off the pole. Previously, I would sometimes take off my poles when going into the trees, but not always.

What kind are those?

 

[wa-loaf]

What kind are those?

Leki makes some.

 

[kcyanks1]

What kind are those?

I can't remember offhand what brand I have (and am at work now), but when I was in the ski shop looking for new poles (this was in Jackson Hole), there were a handful of them, I think from different companies. There is a strap that snaps on to your glove/mitten and then clicks into the pole. There is a release button to get remove the pole (the strap stays on your glove/mitten). If you pull hard enough, it releases without the button. I think there were some models where you needed special gloves that came with the pole, but I got one that works with any gloves or mittens.

 

[bigbog]

Yep, do remember seeing all those with the removeable straps...for a number of years, think those wil be good everywhere = a good purchase..:idea:

 

[JD]

I use them. I hate having them snag and pull outta my hand onb some underbrush mid run. Toatally breaks the flow to have to stop for a pole, then side step back up for it. Never had it snag so hard it's pulled me backwards, my baskets break or pull off before that happens...

 

[gorgonzola]

use 'em the "wrong" way, why is the "right" way bettterer? as soon as i release the pole its in the same position either way no?

 

[kcyanks1]

use 'em the "wrong" way, why is the "right" way bettterer? as soon as i release the pole its in the same position either way no?

I think the "right" way provides more leverage. You are using the force of your hand against the strap to plant. Makes a tight grip less important also. The "wrong" way uses the strap to hold the pole to you but it has no functional purpose in making the plant more efficient/easier/whatever.

 

[TheBEast]

Always use them, in the trees, everywhere. Nothing worse than the pole sinking in and getting it ripped out of your hand and having to go back and get it.....