The Rossignol Escaper Tour is a go-anywhere touring pole that works just as well lapping the resort as it does earning turns in the backcountry. A lightweight aluminum zicral shaft carries a touring-specific grip and a rotating powder basket, making it a practical, capable choice for skiers who split their time between the skin track and the lifts.

Why we like it:

The rotating powder basket is the standout, pivoting up to 32 degrees so it stays planted and supportive on side-hill traverses and uneven terrain. The quick-release safety straps are the other smart detail, designed to let the poles drop away cleanly in a fall or an avalanche scenario.

Highlights:

The aluminum zicral shaft strikes a nice balance of low weight and durability for long days on the up track. The touring grip is the real story, with extended foam down the shaft for shuffling your hands on the climb and a wide upper grip that makes flipping heel lifters easy and adds support when you're pushing uphill. Quick-release safety straps and the 32-degree rotating powder basket handle the backcountry side of things.