I have been searching for an answer to the question: Does one need women’s specific poles? I decided to omit the usual sarcastic remarks I give when asked this question…I assure you they are well received. The Life Link Avalanche Lily’s were the test piece to answer this question.

The main women’s specific characteristic of the Avalanche Lily is the graphics. Like many other products geared toward the female gender, the Lily’s have stylin’ light blue upper shafts and are adorned with its namesake flower, the Lily. That’s the only way someone would notice that perhaps these poles are made for the ladies. Other features of the poles that are very useful (less gender specific) are the adjustability, lightweight carbon, fancy grips and the cushy pole straps.

I have been a fan of Life-Link products since moving to Jackson, Wyoming ten years ago. The terrain we ski everyday generates the desire to get some adjustable poles. I skin up endless bowls and ridges, endure long climbing traverses, and even find myself skating across the resort flats (getting back to my locker at the end of the day) virtually every day. I adjust my poles frequently, mostly because I can. On the fly, the Lily’s adjust from 38” to 58” (Uber Lily-Avalanche Lily Long) and 30” to 49” (Avalanche Lily). I use most of this range and love that! They are easy to use and stay put MOST of the time. I attribute the occasional slippage to my wimpy grip strength….

The foam-coated grip (Friction Zones) on the Lily not only feels good to the touch but it also helps keep my digits warm and prevents slippery grip (Those irritating times when you get snow under your palm and can’t seem to hang onto the pole). Therefore, I like the extra thought that went into the grippier grips.

The thin layer of foam added to the straps is quite brilliant as well. It not only makes the strap comfy, but it helps keep it in place. An added bonus feature is the removable straps. This is a safety feature as I found out when my pole went on one side of a tree and my body on the other. I won! The strap released and I had to go fetch my pole, completely unscathed. Hence…also a great feature when traveling in avalanche terrain.

I like the Avalanche Lily poles. They suit my needs and look good. And I ALWAYS say, If you look good, you feel good. And if you feel good, you ski good!