Choosing Trekking Poles and Walking Sticks

In this feature:

• Who Uses Them?
• What's Best for Your Activity?
• Specific Features

Trekking Poles and Walking Sticks are a tried and proven method of reducing the impact and stresses of hill walking upon the joints, especially: the knees, shoulders and back by absorbing part of the shock that otherwise would be put upon your body.

Balance is also improved while descending over rough terrain, and provides extra impetus by bringing the arms into play while ascending. Over all, Trekking Poles and Walking Sticks help to reduce fatigue and extend endurance.

Who Uses Them?

Everyone can benefit from using good quality Trekking Poles and sticks, from countryside ramblers, hill walkers with joint problems to mountaineers carrying heavy laden packs, if you walk over rough terrain, you will feel the benefit.

Here's a thought: why wait to get injured – start using them now!

What's Best for Your Activity?

To get the maximum benefit, Trekking Poles should be used in pairs and are the most versatile choice. Two poles are better than one, and provide greater balance and absorb more shock.

Walking sticks or monopoles provide a lesser degree of shock absorption and balance and are therefore better suited to less strenuous walks and activities.

Specific Features

Trekking Poles:

• Quality built Trekking Poles are generally constructed from high grade aluminium shafts, formed into three adjustable sections and can be compacted for ease of carrying when not in use.
• Carbide tips for durable and long-term use.
• Ergonomic rubber handles provide a comfortable and natural grip for maximum protection of hands and wrists.
• Shock absorbing internal springs fitted to the shafts to provide comfort and help reduce impact. This feature can be turned off when not required.
• Adjustable wrist straps for added security.

Walking Sticks:

• Generally sold individually and feature an ergonomic crooked cork or rubber handle and have a two or three piece fully adjustable shaft construction in aluminium.
• Some will include an internal spring shock absorber, which can be locked out if necessary.
• Wrist cord

Monopoles:

• Similarly constructed to Trekking Poles but with a rounded mushroom style wooden handle, but without the shock absorption features.
• The wooden handle can be unwound to provide access to the screw on camera facility for perfect shots - every time!
• Adjustable wrist strap

Did you find this guide useful? If so you may also like:

How To Choose Walking Boots
Choosing Your Gaiters

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Go back to the Guides section for more