Hello and thanks for the welcome. The forum won't let me post images or direct links due to my newness.
The pods typically range from 18-24". Their weight makes them hang fairly straight but they do have a slight curve when laying flat.
The Chinese Red Noodle is a type of yard long or asparagus...
My suggestion for a pole cowpea would be the Chinese Red Noodle Bean.
I grow them on an 8' trellis. When they reach the top they "flop" over and grow another 2'-4'.
They do need help to start climbing, but once started they climb on their own.
Baker Creek has them listed here...