Best Trekking Poles and How to Use Them

Introduction:

Are you looking for the best trekking poles? Or are you wondering what all the fuss is about and if you even need trekking poles? Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned hiker, read on to find out everything you need to know about using trekking poles. We'll cover the different types of trekking poles and explain when and how to use them. We'll also share our top tips for getting the most out of your trekking poles.

When To Use Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are not just for old people. In fact, if you're young and healthy, you'll probably get more out of using trekking poles than someone who is older and may already have some joint issues. But when should you use trekking poles? There are a few key scenarios when trekking poles will come in handy: 1) When ascending or descending hills 2) When crossing streams or stepping on slick surfaces 3) When carrying a heavy pack 4) When you have joint pain or injury

What To Look For In A Good Pair of Trekking Poles

A good pair of trekking poles is an important piece of gear for hikers, backpackers and anyone who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors. But with all of the options on the market these days, it can be tough to know which ones to buy. Here are a few things to look for when shopping for trekking poles:

First, make sure that the trekking poles are lightweight and easily packable so you can take them with you on your adventures. They should also be durable and adjustable, so you can customize them to fit your height and preferences. One critical element to think about is the handle. “Find a handle you like,” says Evenson of the cork, foam and rubber options out there. There isn’t much science to it beyond personal preference, although rubber can be more prone to causing blisters and weighs more.

How To Use Trekking Poles

You’ll want to carry a pole in each hand, for the best balance, cadence and aid to your joints. Using just one pole can overstress one side of the body, Evenson notes. It’s meant to reduce the likelihood of blisters and hand fatigue because you won’t need to grip the pole as tightly. As you walk, place the pole on the ground several inches ahead of your feet, moving the poles forward in a rotating fashion as you walk. Use the poles to stabilize your body as you move—this also puts less stress on your knees and hips.

What Height Should I Buy?

Picking the right height for your trekking poles is essential for getting the most out of them. When holding the handles, your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle from your body and your forearms should be parallel to the ground. Most trekking poles are adjustable, so you can find the perfect height for you. Some hikers will adjust their poles for extended uphills and downhills, depending on the terrain. Evenson says it’s easier to use shorter poles on the uphills and longer poles on the downhills.

How Much Should I Spend?

Trekking poles can cost anywhere from $20 to $200. Carbon fiber, lightweight and packable poles are the most popular, and they're typically priced around $150. This is the sweet spot, as they're durable, easily adjustable and won't break the bank. You don't need to spend more than that unless you have specific needs, like extra-long poles for a very tall person or titanium construction for extra lightweight packing.

Do I Need Trekking Poles That Fold?

If you’re debating between trekking poles that fold and trekking poles that telescope, the answer is: it depends. Folding trekking poles are a little more compact when they’re folded up, so they can be easier to pack into your luggage or car. However, telescoping trekking poles can sometimes be more compact overall if you collapse them down to their shortest size. Ultimately, it depends on your own needs and preferences.

How We Tested

When it comes to trekking poles, you really do get what you pay for. Poles in the $20 to $50 range are often made of inferior materials, have fewer features and perform poorly when put to the test. We recommend spending a bit more for a trekking pole that will last and serve you well on your adventures. That said, there are a few great budget-friendly options available if you're not ready to spend a lot of money.

To determine the best trekking poles, we spent about 10 hours researching the latest models and reading customer and media reviews. We also spoke with several experts to get their perspectives on the ideal features and use cases for trekking poles. Next, we ordered a pile of trekking poles to test out on the trail. We evaluated them based on six criteria: weight, length, durability, locking system, comfort and features.

Top 3 On Amazon

Conclusion:

Trekking poles are an essential piece of gear for hikers, backpackers, and anyone who likes to spend time outdoors. They can help make hiking and backpacking easier, more comfortable, and even safer. But not all trekking poles are created equal. So, what are the best trekking poles? And how do you choose the right pair for you? Keep reading to find out.