What To Look For
The weight of the pole is the most important factor to check when purchasing a quality hiking pole. Trekking poles are constructed either of carbon fiber or aluminum. A carbon fiber pole is a lighter pole; however, it is the most expensive. Another factor is the grip material. The best grips for a pole are foam, rubber or cork. The foam grip is the best choice because it absorbs sweat. Locking mechanisms can be either a twisting lock or a flip lock. The flip locks are easier to use when you're wearing gloves. Manufacturers make women's hiking poles that are lighter and smaller than the standard unisex poles. For a woman hiker, these gender-specific poles have a better fit.
Common Pitfalls
The main pitfall is not checking the size of the pole. Holding the pole, bend your arm at a 90-degree angle. A properly sized pole should stand on the ground when your elbow is bent. If the pole is too long or too short, adjust the pole using the locking mechanism. Any adjustments you need to make should fall within the middle of the adjustable range, not at the top end or bottom end. You should be able to lengthen and shorten the pole several inches and still have a comfortable fitting pole. You want to avoid having to lengthen any pole segment to its maximum, as this can cause instability and breakage.
Where To Buy
You can find trekking poles at outdoor sports stores such as REI or Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS). General sports retailers that stock camping/hiking equipment such as Dick's Sporting Goods or Sports Authority are also good places to shop for quality poles. Before shopping online, shop around at local stores to get a feel for brands, models, sizing and comfort. Online, you can find several reputable sites that carry quality trekking poles. Websites such as trekkingpolesdirect, Leki, Black Diamond and L.L. Bean provide a wide choice of models.
Cost
Prices depend on the construction and features of the pole, such as carbon or aluminum, grips, locking devices and added accessories. The top brands are Leki and Black Diamond. A single Leki pole can start at $79 and go up, depending on construction and options. A pair of Black Diamond poles can start at $89 and go up as you add accessories.
Accessories
Trekking pole accessories to look for include mud and snow baskets, adjustable wrist straps and rubber-tip protectors. Mud baskets prevent the pole from sinking too deeply into a muddy terrain. Snow baskets convert the poles into snow poles that prevent the pole from sliding too far into the snow. Rubber-tip protectors can be placed on the ends of the poles to be used in rocky terrain. The rubber prevents slippage of the pole.
Insider Tips
Some poles have an antishock device built in. This is helpful if you have knee problems, as the device absorbs the pressure on downhill hikes.
References
- REI: Trekking Poles advice
- "Hiking and Backpacking"; Marni Goldenberg and Bruce Martin; 2008
- Leki USA: Trekking Products
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