When Kelly McGee and Cristina Ashbaugh founded Yardsale in April 2023 in San Francisco, they identified two persistent challenges that had long plagued skiers: the tendency of ski poles to tangle when being carried, and the frustration of manipulating pole straps while wearing thick gloves. These seemingly simple issues became the catalyst for a six-month development process that would lead to their November 2023 product launch.
McGee brought valuable expertise from his time as a product design engineer at Apple, where he worked on the iPad. This background influenced Yardsale’s approach to manufacturing and material selection. After extensive research and testing, the team developed a unique combination of high-frequency welding and metal-injection molding techniques to embed 16 magnets within each pole handle. This technical achievement allows the poles to securely snap together during transport.
The strap design required equal innovation. The team implemented 3D knitting technology with specialized, stiffer yarn to create straps that maintain an open loop shape. Their structural integrity makes it much easier for skiers to insert gloved hands, fixing a common source of irritation.
P1 Poles
The company’s flagship model weighs 1.3 pounds and features:
- 7-series aluminum construction
- Matte coat paint finish
- Ice-crushing steel tip
- Modular design allowing color customization
- 3D-knit straps with premium metal fasteners
- Magnetic handle and basket system
Each component arrives individually boxed for assembly, enabling users to create personalized color combinations.
P2 Poles for Backcountry
Designed for more technical skiing environments, these 1.4-pound poles offer:
- Adjustable length from 110-135 cm
- Extended magnetic foam grips made from eco-friendly Bloom™ algae foam
- Enhanced handling capability for steep ascents
- Magnetic powder baskets for deep snow performance
- Button-based adjustment system
- Same customizable color options as P1
The P2’s versatility makes it suitable for both backcountry expeditions and resort powder days.
P1 Mini Poles for Kids
Created specifically for children, these 1.1-pound poles feature:
- Adjustable length from 85-105 cm
- Scaled-down magnetic handles and baskets
- Child-appropriate color options
- Same durability features as adult models
- Easy adjustment system for growing skiers
Accessories
MagStrap System
This innovative strapping solution incorporates:
- Fidlock® magnetic technology
- One-click engagement system
- 20-pound force release threshold for safety
- 3D knit nylon construction
- Zinc fasteners
- Universal compatibility with all Yardsale handles
Powder Baskets
Engineered for deep snow conditions, these baskets offer:
- Magnetic 3/4 design
- Integrated riser bump for touring binding adjustment
- Flexible polyethylene construction
- Universal shaft compatibility
- Easy replacement capability
GoPro® Mount
This versatile mounting solution provides:
- Direct handle attachment via embedded threads
- Compatibility with all GoPro® Quick Release models
- Nylon and steel construction
- Tool-free installation
Commitment to Sustainability and Durability
Yardsale implements several environmental and customer-focused initiatives:
- Free replacement shaft program for damaged poles
- Recycling program for used components
- FSC-certified packaging materials
- 100% recyclable packaging design
- Individual component boxing to minimize waste
- Lifetime guarantee against bends and breaks
- Quality Assurance
The company subjects its products to rigorous testing including:
- Sub-zero freezer exposure
- High-temperature oven testing
- Pull strength evaluation
- Abrasion resistance testing
- Bend stress analysis
Technical Specifications and Assembly
Each pole set includes:
- Individually boxed components
- Assembly tools
- Intuitive assembly process
- Detailed instructions
- Total weight comparable to traditional aluminum poles
The name “Yardsale” cleverly references a skiing term describing a dramatic fall where equipment scatters across the slope. This playful nod to ski culture reflects the company’s deep understanding of their market while addressing genuine functionality issues that have persisted in ski pole design.
Through this comprehensive approach to design, testing, and sustainability, Yardsale has created a product line that addresses long-standing issues in ski pole functionality while maintaining competitive weight specifications and adding useful features for various skiing applications.
