Imagine walking through tough, uneven terrains and having some extra support and balance. That’s exactly what trekking poles offer—they can be your dependable friends while you’re on the trail.
In this post, we’ll unravel the many perks of using trekking poles and show you how to use them like a pro. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just getting started, this post is your key to making the most of your hiking experiences. Let’s get going.
Trekking poles aren’t mere accessories; they offer numerous benefits that enhance your hiking. Explore why you should use these handy tools on your next trek:
To sum up these benefits, a recent study found that walking downhill can harm your muscles and a tissue called cartilage, which acts like a cushion in your joints. Using trekking poles is recommended to reduce this damage and aid in the recovery of your muscles and cartilage after walking downhill.
Now that you understand the benefits of trekking poles, let’s dive into using them effectively.
Proper technique can greatly enhance your hiking experience. Here are essential tips to make the most of your trekking poles:
First things first, let’s get those poles to the right height. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to trekking poles. Here’s how to do it:
Remember the measurement marker on the poles to avoid the need for constant re-measuring. Keep in mind that what works for one person may not be ideal for another.
Now that you have the ideal height for hiking on relatively flat ground, you might need to adjust your approach if you encounter a steep incline or decline up ahead:
You can also check out our post specifically on the ins and outs of finding the right trekking pole height here.
Now that your poles are at the perfect height, let’s talk about how to hold them.
The handgrips of trekking poles are usually made of cork, rubber, or foam. Whichever type you have, here’s a handy tip: use the wrist strap.
Thread your hand through the strap from the top to avoid a tight grip. Keeping your grip relaxed is crucial for comfort and efficiency during your hike.
However, be cautious with certain types of straps on prolonged hikes, as they can cause discomfort or nerve sensitivity.
Trekking poles usually have a basic metal tip that’s good for soft surfaces like mud, dirt, and grass. But, if you’re going to hike on paved roads, thick mud, or snowy paths, you’ll need some extra accessories.
Rubber Tips
You can put these tips over the metal ones, and they make your poles land more softly and quietly on paved roads. It’s a little thing that can really improve your hiking experience.
Baskets
If you’re often in muddy areas, consider getting special mud baskets for your trekking poles. These baskets not only prevent you from sinking too much into the mud but also keep mud from splashing onto your clothes.
Alternatively, if you enjoy winter hiking and tackle snowy trails, think about attaching snow baskets to your trekking poles. These baskets prevent your poles from sinking too far into deep snow. Snow baskets are typically broader than mud baskets, designed specifically for terrains with several feet of snow.
Trekking poles are your reliable companions on the trail, offering enhanced stability, reduced joint impact, increased stamina, and pain reduction.
We’ve offered key tips on adjusting pole length, gripping comfortably, and choosing the right tips for different terrains, ensuring you can explore all trails with confidence.
If you’re unsure about selecting the perfect pair, delve into our in-depth post for expert guidance. Now, go out there and apply all of this knowledge. Happy hiking!
Interested in ultralight trekking poles? You can also check out our TOP 5 Guide for the lightest trekking poles on the market.
To use trekking poles efficiently start by adjusting their length to match your height and the terrain. Maintain a relaxed grip on the handles, utilizing the wrist straps for added support without a tight hold. Choose the right tips for the trail surface—metal for soft terrain and rubber for rocky or paved paths. When hiking uphill, shorten the poles by 2-4 inches and move your arms higher and in front of your chest. Conversely, when going downhill, lengthen the poles by 2-4 inches and keep them in front of your body to maintain balance.
Using one trekking pole is absolutely okay! It can provide stability and support during hikes. When opting for a single pole, be sure to switch hands occasionally to balance muscular strain. If you have chronic pain in one leg, primarily use the pole with the opposite arm to ease the strain on the weaker or painful limb. Whether you choose one or two poles depends on your personal preference and the goals of your hike.
