How to Choose and Use Trekking and Hiking Poles

If you are a backpacker, trekker, hiker or a walker, you will come across the need to spend your money and purchase the best hiking staffs and trekking poles out there in the market. Then you will be able to receive much-needed stability on all types of terrains. However, the process that you will have to follow in order to get your hands on the best trekking poles and hiking staffs can be quite an overwhelming job to do. That's why you are encouraged to go through this guide before you make your purchase. These tips will help you to know more about trekking poles and hiking staff.

Two different types of trekking poles

The trekking poles can be divided into two main categories as hiking staff and trekking poles. Trekking Poles The trekking poles are available for your purchase in the market in the form of pairs. You will be able to use them in tandem. They have got the ability to reduce the overall pressure on your knees while you are engaged with backpacking or hiking. In most of the trekking poles, you will be able to adjust the length. In the high-end trekking poles, you can find internal springs, which provide them with excellent shock absorbing capabilities.   Hiking staff A hiking staff is a single pole. You will be able to use them when you are walking on a flat terrain. You will be able to adjust the length of the hiking staff as well. In addition, you can find a few hiking staffs that contain springs to provide them with shock absorbing capabilities.  

Factors to consider when selecting the best trekking pole and hiking staff

Now you know what the trekking poles and hiking staffs are and how they will be able to assist you. With that in mind, here are some effective tips that you need to keep in your mind to end up purchasing the best product out of them. Adjustable length – It is better if you can go ahead with a trekking pole or a hiking staff, where the length can be adjusted. Then you will be able to maintain your stability when traveling in many different types of terrains. Foldable design – If the trekking pole or the hiking staff you purchase comes with a foldable design, you will be able to take it along with you, wherever you go. You just need to fold it and carry in your backpack. Shock absorbing capabilities – The internal springs in the trekking poles and hiking staffs provide them with shock absorbing capabilities. Then you will be able to get a comfortable experience during the terrains. Lightweight – You should also purchase a trekking pole or a hiking staff that comes with a lightweight design. Then you can stay away from a lot of frustration when you are using a one.

How to use trekking poles and hiking staffs

Alternate your legs and poles – It is recommended for you to alternate your legs and poles when you are engaged with hiking or walking. You need to follow the order of left foot, right pole, right foot, left pole. Then you will be able to travel according to a rhythm. Walk naturally – You should always try to walk naturally with the trekking pole and the hiking staff. You can also maintain the arm swing to ensure a natural walk. Double planting – In some of the instances, you will come across the need to place both poles at the same time. This is followed by taking two steps. When you do that, you need to place both trekking poles and continue with your journey. The effectiveness of these tips are proven and you can try them without keeping any doubts in mind. Do you like the article? Let us know in the comment section below and if we received enough request, we will start the second one! Happy reading :)