Pole Plant and Touch
Overview: In alpine skiing, “pole planting” is a deliberate action especially useful on steep slopes and in technical events, requiring the skier to firmly drive the pole into the snow. Conversely, “pole touching” involves a lighter, subtler action aimed at maintaining rhythm and flow, ideal for long arcing turns, high-speed skiing, and conserving energy.
Pole Plant and Touch
The pole plant and touch are fundamental skills in alpine skiing that enhances balance, control, and rhythm.
A good demonstration of the poling actions is provided by this video.
In alpine skiing the terms “planting” and “touching” your pole to the snow refer to two distinct techniques, each serving different purposes and used under different circumstances on the slope.
Pole Planting is a more aggressive and deliberate action where the skier firmly drives the pole tip into the snow. It helps in quickly changing direction, particularly on steep slopes or in technical disciplines like slalom.
Pole Touch is used in Giant Slalom and Speed events. It’s a lighter, more subtle technique, involving the use of the wrist to gently tap or brush the snow with the pole’s tip. This action focuses less on stability and more on maintaining rhythm and flow through turns.
Direction: For short turns and on steep slopes, aim to plant or touch your pole down the hill, in line with your boots, as demonstrated in the accompanying picture of Mikaela Shiffrin skiing slalom. In the case of longer, arced turns, aim further towards the front of your skis.
When to Plant or Touch
Many racers focus on flexing their ankles and moving their body forward to start a turn and then planting or touching the pole tip to the snow as they start to release pressure from the outside ski.
After the Pole Plant or Touch: Keep your arm in the forward position after the poling action, avoiding letting the arm drop behind your body.
No Pole Plant or Touch is Sometimes Appropriate
Sometimes, it is not necessary to plant or touch the pole to the snow. When skiing fast longer-radius turns, touching the snow with your pole could put you out of balance. In these situations, focusing on moving your body forward while building pressure against the outside ski is more effective and safer.
Correct Pole Length and Straps
Ensure you have the correct type and length of ski poles. View the Learning Module ‘Poles and Pole Straps’ for helpful information and videos:
Key Takeaways
Both pole planting and touching are essential skills in alpine skiing, with their appropriate use depending on the skier’s speed, the terrain, and the desired turn dynamics. Mastering when and how to use each technique allows skiers to navigate the slopes more effectively, whether carving through a racecourse, skiing steep terrain or enjoying a run down groomed trails.
Suggested Learning Modules
Return to Release, Level the Hips and Pole Plant
Return to Slalom
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