The extended grip and longer-than-normal length on these poles is quite helpful on steep slopes (whether you're going up or down) and flat stretches where you're pushing on your poles cross-country style. These poles are lightweight, well-made, sturdy, and I also love the powder baskets. I've noticed that I prefer using fingered gloves with these, as opposed to mittens – it's harder to grip the 'finger-grip' pattern of these with mittens. Also, they take a little time to get used to while skiing downhill because of the added weight moving around above your hand. I suspect this adjustment period might be mostly eliminated by removing the straps, as the straps could be the main reason for the sensation of added weight above your hand. I am probably going to remove the straps (I only ever use straps to rescue a dropped pole, I never ski with my hands in 'em), but I'm concerned that the removal might not be reversible, it's hard to tell without trying. I think I might email Folkrm to ask about that. *** Anyways, overall I am glad I got these! They are really great for ski touring and uphill travel due to the added height and adjustable grip. I may still prefer my traditional downhill ski poles on resort days, time will tell after I try removing the straps on these.