Salomon Steep Vario S3 — Adjustable Freeride Ski Pole

Q1: How do I find the right length Steep Vario S3?
Stand in your ski boots on a flat floor and hold the pole upside down, gripping it just below the basket with the tip pointing up. Your elbow should be bent at about 90°. That’s a good starting length for resort skiing. Because the Steep Vario S3 adjusts from 100 to 135 cm, you can change the length on the hill to suit climbs, traverses or deep snow.

Q2: Is the Steep Vario S3 compatible with ski touring and backcountry setups?
Yes. It’s designed for freeskiing and touring, with an adjustable length for changing terrain, an extended foam grip for traverses and a powder basket for deep snow. The integrated screwdrivers let you make quick binding adjustments on the go, which is especially useful on backcountry days away from the lift.

Q3: Why does a safety release strap matter?
If your pole basket catches on a branch, rock or deep snow while your hand is in a standard strap, the pole can wrench your wrist or shoulder. Salomon’s S3 safety strap is designed to release under a strong pull or in a fall, so the pole lets go instead of pulling your arm with it. That’s useful in tight trees and steep terrain where snags are more likely.