Your Guide to Choosing and Using Trekking Poles

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Trekking poles, once reserved for hardcore hikers and mountaineers, have become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts of all levels and for good reason. These simple yet invaluable tools offer a multitude of benefits, from enhancing stability on uneven terrain to reducing strain on joints during long treks. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a beginner hitting the trails for the first time, here's why trekking poles should be an essential part of your outdoor gear arsenal, along with tips on how to choose the right ones for your needs.

The pros of trekking poles:

1. Enhanced Stability: One of the primary benefits of trekking poles is the increased stability they provide, especially on challenging terrain like steep ascents or descents, loose gravel, or uneven trails. By adding two additional points of contact with the ground, trekking poles help distribute your weight more evenly, reducing the risk of slips, trips, and falls.
2. Joint Support and Injury Prevention: Trekking poles can significantly reduce the impact on your knees, hips, and ankles, especially when carrying a heavy backpack or navigating downhill sections. By absorbing some of the shock with each step, they help decrease strain on your joints, which can ultimately prevent injuries and discomfort, particularly during long-distance hikes or multi-day treks.
3. Improved Endurance: Using trekking poles can help you conserve energy and maintain a steady pace over longer distances. By engaging your upper body muscles, particularly the arms, shoulders, and core, trekking poles allow you to share the workload with your lower body, reducing fatigue and increasing overall endurance.
4. Balance and Posture: Trekking poles promote better posture by encouraging a more upright stance and reducing the tendency to hunch forward, especially when carrying a heavy pack. This not only helps prevent back strain but also improves breathing and circulation (no more fat hands!), enhancing overall comfort and efficiency while hiking.
5. Versatility: Trekking poles aren't just for hiking; they're also useful for various things while backpacking like using it to pitch a trekking pole tent or making a tripod for hanging a gravity filter. 

Choosing the right trekking poles:

1. Material: Trekking poles are typically made from aluminum or carbon fiber. Aluminum poles are durable, affordable, and suitable for most hikers, while carbon fiber poles are lighter and offer better shock absorption but come at a higher price point.
   
2. Weight: Opt for lightweight trekking poles, especially if you plan to use them for long-distance hiking or fast-paced activities like trail running. However, keep in mind that lighter materials often come with a higher price tag.
   
3. Grip and Straps: Look for ergonomic grips that feel comfortable in your hands and provide a secure hold, even when sweating or wearing gloves. Adjustable wrist straps are essential for maintaining control and preventing accidental drops.
   
4. Locking Mechanism: Choose trekking poles with reliable locking mechanisms that are easy to adjust and won't slip during use. Popular options include twist locks, lever locks, and external clamps, each offering different levels of convenience and security.
   
5. Shock Absorption: If you frequently hike on rugged terrain or have sensitive joints, consider investing in trekking poles with built-in shock absorption systems. These features help cushion each step, reducing strain on your body and enhancing overall comfort.
   
6. Length and Adjustability: Look for trekking poles with adjustable length settings to accommodate various terrains and hiking preferences. Most models allow you to extend or retract the poles to find the optimal height for your height and stride.
   
   

Some trekking pole suggestions:

Get Out Gear

Trekology

Black Diamond carbon fiber

Black Diamond aluminum

Leki

Get Out Gear - carbon fiber, cork grips, telescoping design.
Trekology - aircraft grade aluminum, cork grips, z-fold design.
Black Diamond - carbon fiber, cork grips, telescoping design.
Black Diamond - aluminum, foam grips, z-fold design.
​Leki - aluminum, cork grips, telescoping design.