Another important topic that we need to discuss is the size of the pole. Now I’m not talking about the height here (we’ll get to that when I cover specific brands)… I’m referring to how big your dance pole will be around.
The standard size for a pole is 50mm (2 inches) around. Recently, some manufacturers have started offering a “petite” or “skinny” version of their poles which measure 45mm (approx 1.75 inches). Although the smaller poles are recommended for those who are 5′4″ or shorter, the decision about which size to get is not as easy as it may seem.
Which size should I buy?
There are a few things to take into consideration here. If you plan on participating in any pole dancing compotitions 
down the line, you’ll definitely want to go for the standard 50mm size. The same is probably true if you are looking for a home pole to supplement studio classes you are taking. (Check with your studio to make sure that they use the standard size.) If you take classes on a 50mm pole and practice at home on a 45mm pole, the difference in sizes will impede your progress.
So let’s say you are under 5′4″ with small hands and you want a pole in your house just for fun… should you automatically lean toward the 45mm pole? Not necessarily. Remember that you will be holding the pole with other parts of your body than just your hands. The other thing to consider is your thighs. If you have a space between your thighs when you stand with your legs together, the 45mm skinny pole may not be for you since your thighs may not be able to grip it.
As you can see, which size of dance pole to get is far from cut and dry. It’s based so much on personal preference… I have heard of people who loved the petite poles, people who hated them, and those who thought they would love them but didn’t. Personally, I haven’t had an opportunity to try a 45mm yet, although I am looking forward to it. If you are having doubts, the safest bet is probably to go with the “tried and true” 50mm pole or see if a studio will let you try out one of theirs first.
If you already own a pole, what size is it? Have you tried both sizes? Input and opinions are always appreciated!
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
The studio where I take classes has both 50mm and 45mm poles. When I first started doing inverted moves, I prefered the 50mm, but now I’m comfortable with inverts, I’ve moved over to a 45mm pole. I’m only about 5′2, and my hands struggle to even get around a 45mm – I cannot close my hand around a 50mm. I stupidly bought a 50mm (Xpole titanium) for home, which is fine for practicing inverts and tricks, but isn’t so good for normal spins, lifts, etc.
I’m also a spinning girl all the way
I just don’t think a static is nearly as much fun!
hi! I just recently started pole dancing after about 13 years of more mainstream type dance training and I have to say I am in love with it! On the subject of the 45mm vs 50mm poles, the studio where I take classes has both and I try to alternate between the two. I am 5′11″ so its not like I need to use the smaller pole, but I do find that they are easier to learn tricks on. I think it might be that, even though my hands fit around the regular 50mm pole, the extra little bit of grip on the 45mm pole makes holding on to the pole slightly easier, which in turn makes it easier to hold up my body using my arms. I do make sure that I alternate though, because its easy to go from the 50mm to the 45mm but its way harder to learn something on the 45mm and then try on the 50mm.