The Full Scoop on Trekking Poles for Active Travel

We’re big advocates of using trekking poles on nearly every hiking, trekking, or backpacking adventure. They enhance the experience by offering stability, boosting endurance, and reducing the strain on your knees. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about these reliable hiking partners.

Why Use Trekking Poles:

• Contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability.

• Removes heavy impact from your knees and ankles.

• They help conserve your energy by transferring work to your arms and chest. 

• Using poles takes 20% of the weight off each side as you step. 

   

How to Choose the Right Pair of Trekking Poles:

If you’re just starting out, you could consider buying an inexpensive pair or borrowing a pair of poles from a hiking friend. Go on a few hikes with them to learn how to use them and see how you like them. 

Or, even better, come on an AGC hiking trip to test them out and learn tips and tricks from a community of trekking pole experts! This would also allow you to see what other hikers have chosen for their poles and help you make a more informed decision regarding the “perfect” pair of poles for you.

If you're ready to buy a pair, below are a few specs and details to pay attention to:

1. Weight

As lightweight backpackers, the weight of trekking poles has to be at the top of our considerations. The lighter, the better! Remember, you will pick these poles up and down hundreds (or thousands) of times during your hike, and weight will be important.

There are several factors that influence the weight of your poles, including the following: 

• What material are they made of?

• What type of locking mechanism do they have? 

• Do they have “shocks”?

• Do they have baskets?

• What are the handles made of? 

2. Pole Adjustment Mechanism

There are several types of locking mechanisms for pole adjustment. For many years, our favorite has been the twist type of mechanism because it weighed less and quite reliable. Most companies have now switched to newer technology with a lever-locking mechanism. In addition to these two styles, the most commonly available are:

• DuoLock

• Super Lock System

• Stop Lock 

All of these locking systems weigh about the same, so make sure you understand your particular locking system and can operate it well under the conditions in which you will be using the poles.

3. Sections

You can buy poles that separate into 2 or 3 sections, which is great for breaking them down to fit into your backpack or travel bag. Our preference (and many other hikers/backpackers' preference) is the poles that break down into compact pieces. 

The 3-section pole is how almost all hiking/trekking/backpacking poles are made. A 2-section pole provides a bit more strength, which is a good option if you’ll be using them for mountaineering or skiing.

4. Material

The most common materials used for hiking poles are aluminum or carbon fiber. Carbon fiber is the lighter-weight material of the two, but that will also be reflected in the poles' cost. 

5. Grips

Grips are a personal preference. Test out a few different grips to see which type you prefer. Some of the options include the following:

• Rubber is a good option for winter sports because it does not absorb water and insulates your hands from the cold. Rubber isn’t ideal for warm-weather hiking because it can be more abrasive to bare skin. 

• Cork is a material often used for handles. Its upside is that it is comfortable and molds to the shape of your hands. However, cork tends not to absorb moisture, which can result in slippery handles if you have particularly sweaty hands.   

• Foam  is a soft material that keeps hands cooler. It absorbs moisture but does not become ‘sodden’ or misshapen from hand moisture. 

6. Pole Height

• Make sure that the poles you purchase are suitable for your height. Some trekking poles come in regular and tall heights, and some have weight recommendations for their specifications.

• Some poles do not extend for downhill hiking. We prefer poles that extend for downhill hiking, as they help take more impact off of your knees. 

• Consider women’s poles if they are available in the brand you’re looking at. These poles are often shorter and have smaller hand grips, making them more comfortable.

7. Wrist Straps 

 It’s very important to use your trekking poles correctly, and having adjustable wrist straps is fundamental in learning to use your poles correctly.  

8. Baskets

We suggest avoiding poles with baskets unless you plan on making your trip in the snow. If your poles come with baskets, they can be easily removed and saved for a trip you may need them for.

9. Use

What will you be using your poles for? Will they be multi-use poles for hiking and snowshoeing, or are they just for hiking, trekking, and backpacking? There are different poles for different uses, but often, you can get away with using the same poles for multiple activities. When picking a pair, choose a set that's geared toward what you will be using them for most often.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hiking poles and trekking poles?

Hiking poles and trekking poles are the same thing. They come in pairs and are basically ski poles with slightly different grips and constructions. There is also a walking/hiking stick or a hiking staff, which is a single pole, but they are not as popular. 

Who makes the best trekking poles?

There are so many different makers and models, and it is always best to find the hiking poles that feel best for you. Some of the companies that consistently rank at the top are Black Diamond, Leki, Trekology, REI, Trail Buddy, and MSR. 

What is the best length for hiking poles?

This depends on how tall you are and how long your arms are. Testing out a set of poles is always best to ensure it works for you. There are, of course, suggested lengths: 

Adding Trekking Poles to Your Travel Gear

Trekking poles will be a great addition to your hiking and backpacking gear. With trekking poles, your future hiking trips will be much more enjoyable, giving you more stability, happier knees, and increased endurance. Don’t forget to do your research and consider the important features we mentioned when picking a pair, so you’ll end up with a great set!

Your next adventure with trekking poles is just a click away. Where do you want to go next?