Your Take on Trekking Poles?

[Woods]

What is your take on trekking poles? Some people use them, some don't and I feel they both have good explanations for what they do. What's yours?

[bsmit212]

I dont backpack without mine. I feel a noticable difference when I started using mine. However I know several people who hate using them. A good way to try it out is wal-mart has a set you can get for about $25 for the pair. These wont last you very long but it will atleast let you try them out and see what you think and if you like them, then you can spend the money on a good pair that will last.

[2Tired4]

I don't use them because I have stronger legs than usual individual for my size and I don't need weight transferred away from my knees. So, no poles in my opinion.

[oldsarge]

I'd say that Polish folks like to get out and hike around just like anyone!

Really, I like them, they help take some of the stress of my knees and lower back. Plus I like tha added support in rough terrain. Not like climbing a mountain, but rocky or uneven stuff where it's easy to loose you footing. Mostly I got with one pole though since its modified to hold my GPS.

[Lamebeaver]

I always carry one. Very handy for tricky slopes, ice and also for protection.

When backpacking, I carry two. Makes a big difference.

[Grandpa]

I carry two trekking poles backpacking. I say carry because most of the time thats what I do. I like my hands free, and like 2tired, have strong heavy legs that support and balance me quite well. But I still take the poles for stream crossings, rough going and non trekking functions. Most people will benefit greatly using them, but not all of us.

[ppine]

When I was young I scoffed at them. Now they help unweight the joints in the legs, and help with balance when top-heavy on rough ground at aged 61.

[pastywhite]

I always use poles. I have knee issues from years of skiing and the poles help a lot on long days. I don't really need them for short days. They are very helpful when going down steep hills though and there's not much better for water crossings. My poles have saved me quite a few falls over the years.

[briansnat]

I started using poles while showshoeing. That experience caused me to start using them when hiking in the snow. One year when the snow finally melted I just kept using them. These days I rarely hike or backpack without them. The few times I do I feel strange.

They are great on steep downhills and help keep some pressure off of the knees and very useful when crossing streams.

[Pathfinder1]

Hi...


I'm not one for high-priced or "fancy" gear. I use a set of white Army surplus ski poles that are just the right height for me. The tapered aluminum can also be shortened for better carry, if needed.

They are great for balance, and for taking a little of the load off the legs and spine. Wish I had them with me the last time I had to wade in the Deleware River (guide got his boat stuck in shallow water). Boy, I've never before encountered such a slippery river bottom...!!

I suppose they could also be used as a weapon, too.