For some of us, trekking poles have become as essential for hiking as backpacks and hiking shoes. Adjusted to the right size trekking poles improve your balance, reduce impacts when you’re going downhill, and decrease the heavy strain on your legs and knees by about a third. Here are some tips to help you choose from the many models available.
The right model of trekking pole
Go for trekking poles that are designed for your specific use and the terrain you cover:
For occasional use on short hikes or easy walks, entry-level poles will work fine. The shafts of these poles are made of aluminum because it provides the best combination of light weight, durability and price. Keep in mind that these adjustable poles can be broken down into two or often three pieces which makes them easier to use and carry. Prices range from €10 - €90 per pair.
For long hikes, trekking and intense use on all types of terrain, lightweight trekking poles featuring a comfortable grip with a strap are a bonus. Carbon shafts are lightweight, stiff and absorb shock. These ultra-light poles ¬– also used in trail running ¬– are however, more fragile. The use of carbon and the higher quality of their components (handle, strap, tip and adjustment system) means these poles are more expensive, coming in between €100 to €150 per pair.
--- Our trekking poles for WOMEN
--- Our trekking poles for MEN
The right size trekking pole
To choose the right size trekking pole, use the same method you would use for choosing ski poles: turn the pole upside down and grip it under the basket. For the best fit, your elbow should be at 90° angle.
The length can be adjusted on most 2- or 3-piece trekking poles, which allows you to adjust the length of the pole to suit different uses and terrain.
Trekking pole features
After you’ve decided on the model and size of poles that best suit your needs and budget, you can then compare features.
Our trekking poles for WOMEN | Our trekking poles for MEN
The shaft and number of pieces
Most trekking pole shafts are made of aluminum and offer a good compromise between light weight, strength and price. Carbon poles are significantly lighter while maintaining a very high level of rigidity. On the other hand, they are also more fragile.
Trekking poles are available with 1, 2 or 3 sections:
- Single-piece or mono poles: stiffer and lighter but the length can’t be adjusted.
- 2-piece telescopic poles: length can be adjusted while also maintaining good rigidity.
- 3-piece telescopic poles: the most common. Length can be adjusted, and they’re compact when folded.
- 3-piece, z-folding poles: the pole sections are connected by a cord. To assemble the pole, the cord can be pulled then locked into place. Some foldable poles feature a telescopic element that enable the length to be adjusted.
Adjustment system
Telescopic poles use two kinds of adjustment system:
- Screw (or cone) system: usually found on entry-level and mid-range poles and requires the sections to be rotated to lock them together.
- Lever system: found on 2- and 3-piece collapsible poles. Easier to manipulate.
Grips
- Plastic/rubber grips: basic grips used on entry-level poles.
- Foam grips: more comfortable and ergonomic, these provide better grip.
- Cork grips: people like these because they have a better feel, look more natural and evacuate hand perspiration better.
Straps
When used correctly, straps provide relief for the hands and forearms.
- Basic straps are composed of a simple adjustable strap.
- More advanced straps feature a foam lining of different widths and thicknesses for better comfort.
- Releasable (or clip) straps allow you to quickly remove the pole from your hand without having to pull your hand out of the strap. This system is also found on trail running poles and ski poles.
Baskets
These are small in diameter and keep the poles from getting stuck between two stones in rocky terrain. They are generally replaceable, and you can easily switch them for a larger basket when you plan to hike in the snow.
Tips
Lower price point poles usually have tips made of steel. You can also find plastic or rubber tips that provide better grip on rock and make less noise. Keep in mind that if you break or wear out a trekking pole tip, they can easily be replaced.
When you go hiking, always use trekking poles rather than ski poles, which have features specific to skiing. Finally, we strongly advise you to hike with two poles rather than just one because this will distribute the effort equally between your two arms and provide better balance.
