For centuries, man has used a sturdy wooden staff when venturing on long walks into the wilderness. Moses used one for his forty year exodus, and in more recent times Boy Scouts hiked into the forest with their trusty hiking sticks in hand. In the 21st century, the modern hiker has transformed this handy tool into the trekking pole.
What Are They?
Trekking poles are used by day hikers, backpackers, and mountain climbers when traveling in the backcountry. The poles provide stability when crossing difficult terrain, by creating a tripod. The user has one pole in each hand, creating two positions of support, with the traveler creating the third position with the legs. Trekking poles can reduce stress on the knees.
The Nuts and Bolts
Trekking poles look like ski poles for the summer. They are made of lightweight aluminum and plastic, with molded grip handles, leashes for the wrists, and heavy-duty metal points with plastic baskets. Some brands have a shock cord built into the pole to absorb the impact from constant pounding on the ground. Trekking poles are adjustable to fit different sized people, and come in a variety of styles for different uses. Prices can range from relatively inexpensive to over one hundred dollars.
How to Use Them
The user should adjust the trekking pole to a comfortable height. The poles should be able to flow comfortably with one’s stride as a hiker is traveling down the trail on a level surface. If the poles are too high or too low they will feel awkward.
When hiking uphill, adjust the poles so they are slightly lower to take advantage of gripping into the hill. When going downhill, the hiker should adjust the poles a little higher to help to brace oneself when going down the mountain.
Other Cool Uses
Trekking poles can come in handy for several purposes besides hiking. They can be used as support poles for setting up a tarp shelter. Because they are adjustable, the poles can be lengthened or shortened for the shelter height. A single pole can be used to prop up one’s backpack, so that it does not have to be laid on the ground. Trekking Poles can even be used in a pinch as a splint to treat a patient for a broken limb.
More Information
For more information about trekking poles, the following sites may prove helpful.
TrekkingPoles.com: The website for everything about trekking poles.
Backpacker Magazine: Has gear reviews on trekking poles and other outdoor products.
