The Use of Trekking Poles
By L. Morris Johnson, M.D.
12 years ago I was on the Tour du Mont Blanc above Chamonix, France and observed young hikers enjoying themselves jumping from rock to rock down talus slopes using what appeared to be expandable ski poles for balance and stability. On the second day of this classic 120-mile trek our guide supplied each of us with such poles for a very steep descent. By the time we reached Courmayeur, Italy I was convinced of the value of these poles and bought a pair.
Since then I have never been without them for mountain hiking. They provide stability and balance over uneven trails and have prevented many falls in slippery areas. They greatly relieve stress on ankle, knee and hip joints as well as provide balance and stability for the shoulders and back, especially when descending steep areas.
When going uphill the arms as well as the legs are used for lift giving the arms exercise and reducing leg fatigue. Poles provide stability and safety when crossing streams. Although one pole can be used as the hiking staff of the past, two provide much better balance and symmetry of movement. Most have adjustable length with locking mechanisms allowing the user to lengthen the poles going downhill and shorten them for climbing. As they can be adjusted for the height of the individual hiker, one size fits all, even growing Scouts!
When not needed the poles can be collapsed and hung through the loops provided on most backpacks for ice axes, etc. I prefer three section poles as they can be collapsed or taken apart and put into 26 luggages and checked on airlines. Don't put them into carry-on bags, as they will be confiscated!
Trekking pole design has improved over the past ten years and manufacturers now offer poles with varying minimal and maximal lengths, grip designs that are straight (as in ski poles) or slightly angled and made of foam, rubber or cork, serrated or pointed tips and detachable baskets. The shafts are made of aluminum and, for the untralight enthusiast, titanal aluminum. Most now have shock absorbing springs built into the shafts and some have shock lockout devices for uphill climbs.
Others can be turned into monopods for photography, although these tend to be designed for casual walking rather than trekking. The best tips are made of carbide and will last for years of usage. A serrated tip holds well and is safer than a pointed one.
Baskets are basically of two types, large or snowflake for snow and places where the tips may sink in easily and small or dome for summer hiking to prevent the pole from dropping between rocks and into small holes.
For most hiking and backpacking the small basket is fine and will keep the poles securely hanging in backpack loops when not in use. A pair of poles varies from 14 to 23 ounces and costs between $75 and $150.
Once you have decided on buying poles you should practice walking with them. Put your hands up through the wrist straps and then grip the poles distributing your weight via the straps against your palms. Do not grip the poles tightly or you will tire your hands quickly.
Plant a pole with each step and leverage off it. Probe when going downhill for the most stable place to plant the pole. If your foot slips you will still be able to recover with a solid pole placement. Be careful not to place the pole between rocks that may jam it and cause it to bend or throw you off balance as you move forward.
Enjoy your poles! I believe you will greatly appreciate them on irregular and steep terrains, especially if you are carrying a heavy backpack.