Using Trekking Poles
Poles Can Assist a Hiker in Many Ways During a Trip in the Outdoors
Feb 23, 2008
Poles are a useful item when hiking. Besides providing another secure point when crossing creeks or uneven tracks, poles have other applications.
Trekking Poles' Proper Name
However, the first thing is the proper name. Don’t refer them as a “walking stick”. Use the term “trekking pole” or “hiking pole” to differentiate from the image of a broken down old-timer shuffling along the track.
One or Two Poles ?
Once committed to trying a trekking pole, the next big decision is one pole or two? One pole means your walking style won’t change; you’ll simply be carrying something in one hand. You’ll also have a hand free for grabbing things like hydration bladder hoses and maps. However, two poles can make you feel more balanced.
Using Trekking Poles
One pole is best for going downhill, as you will have a free hand for balance and grabbing handholds. While two are better for uphill slogs as extra power can be delivered through the arms. There is no easy answer to this question; it is simply personal preference.
The height of a trekking pole should be so that the forearm of your bent arm is parallel with the ground with pole held comfortably out front.
Different Uses of Trekking Poles
A trekking pole can be used as a tent pole for a hiking fly or tent – either as the main pole or as a back-up in case of failure. If you’re in the lead on the first hike of the day, a pole can be great for breaking down spider’s webs strung across the track. Or for chasing snakes and other wildlife.
Some trekking poles have compasses in the top, or even a camera screw that can turn your trekking pole into a mono-pod for your camera.
A pole can be a great resting spot for the forehead during those short breaks at the end of a particularly long trudging session. Simply lean forward and place your forehead on the pole. And have you ever taken a heavy pack off after a long walk and had no-where to lean it? Usually it is left lying on the ground with bits and pieces falling out and other stuff crawling in. A pole can be a perfect prop to keep the pack upright.
Trekking Poles and the Environment
Some hikers complain that the use of trekking poles harm the environment. This argument can have some merit, but compared to the heavy footfalls of a hiker the use of a pole has little effect. Using a pole actually helps reduce some damage as fewer trees are used as handholds, fewer side-steps taken through boggy patches, and less trees damaged with guy lines wrapped around them.
So a trekking pole is a useful addition when out in the bush. After a few times walking with either one or two poles, you’ll probably feel strange and unbalanced without it! Like a good pair of socks, a good, comfortable trekking pole can grow into a great support, a constant companion, and a good friend.
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