Trekking Pole Walking Tips

Adjusting and Sizing

• Finding the right length, size and adjustments for trekking poles is crucial to their functionality.

  Set the length of the pole so that your elbow is at a 90-degree angle. This will provide the desired stability and balance for your hike. The length of the pole should also be adjusted based on the terrain you are hiking. Shorten the pole by a few inches when you are hiking uphill as this will increase load-bearing pressure and provide you with better leverage. When you are hiking downhill, adjust the pole so that it is a few inches longer to give you better balance and control. If you are hiking on level ground, keep your forearms parallel to the ground when you're holding the grips.

  The grips should fit snugly for stability. The feel and grasp of a hand grip is one of the most important aspects to be considered when choosing a trekking pole. Materials like cork, rubber and foam are used for hand grips. They are built not only for comfort but also to resist sweat, decrease vibration and to insulate the hands from cold and shock.

Shaft Material

• The shaft is the long part of the trekking pole. The materials used for the shaft vary and may include aluminum, titanium and carbon fiber. Most prefer aluminum because of its durability and price.

  Carbon fiber makes a much lighter trekking pole, but it is usually more expensive. Poles made from carbon fiber weigh between 13 and 18 ounces per pair, whereas aluminum trekking poles typically weigh between 18 and 22 ounces.

  Titanium trekking poles are similar to aluminum ones in price and weight. They are durable and stronger than carbon fiber, but they are heavier.

  Choose the best material based on your hiking and budget needs. If you prefer lighter poles and do not mind paying more, choose a carbon fiber shaft. However because carbon fiber poles are more vulnerable to breakage than aluminum and titanium, they are not ideal for rugged and difficult terrains.

Antishock

• Many trekking poles come with the option of an antishock feature. If your hikes primarily consist of downhill terrains, antishock is a great feature for impact absorption.

  The antishock system works internally. Springs are put inside the pole to absorb extra shock and to provide cushioning when you are walking downhill. Make sure to buy poles with a turn-off feature because this mechanism works against uphill hikes. Note that this feature may add to the weight and price of the poles.

Other Uses

• When you are carrying a heavy load, trekking poles are especially useful to distribute the weight and ease the stress on your knees and ankles. With the help of your poles, you can develop an enjoyable rhythmic coordination between your steps.

  You can also use the poles for protection against unexpected animal encounters in the wild.