Pole straps or not has long been a heavy debate amongst serious skiers. On the one hand, they could mangle your hand if you fell in just the wrong way. On the other hand, they're pretty useful for not dropping your poles and stuff. Well, the debate is finally over with the BCA Scepter Ski Poles. In addition to the multi-function baskets and grips (perfect for fiddling with risers on touring bindings), the Scepter also has releasable wrist straps designed to break away before your hand does. So you can have you poles, and keep them too.