I'm 5'11 and I could get *by* with the short - since I typically have my poles at about 125 cm.. Problem is I sometimes extend and I also use them sometimes for shelters as a pole - so I don't get "short" length poles, I get the standards.

I suspect, but again, it's personal preference, that you'd be ok with the shorties being 5' 9", unless you were using them as shelter supports.
_________________________
Any fool can be uncomfortable...
My 3 season gear list
Winter list.
Browse my pictures