What To Look For
Trekking poles can be very helpful to hikers, especially in rough terrain. Poles distribute your weight and shock over four "limbs" instead of just two. According to Outdoor Places, "People who have used trekking poles discover an almost immediate benefit to their knees, especially on long downhill treks." When shopping for poles, look for those that adjust in length, so that when you are going downhill you can make them longer and when going uphill you can make them shorter. This ability will help keep the strain off your knees. Some poles have shock absorbers built in. This feature can keep the strain off your shoulders, arms and wrists, which end up absorbing a lot of the shock that your legs and knees aren't taking. Trekking poles come with three different types of tips: single-point, chiseled and rubber-tipped. A chiseled point tip is a good tip for various conditions, including ice. Rubber tips work best on hard surfaces and carbide tips are the most durable.
Common Pitfalls
Don't make your decision to buy a pair of poles based on features like a camera mount or compass embedded in the top of the pole. Instead, try out the grips and make sure they feel right in your hands, before buying. Poles with soft grips made of Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) or cork, which resist stress, are tough in low temperatures and mold to your hands. A hard grip can get wet with your sweat and be difficult to hold on to, especially on tough climbs or descents. Make sure you get the right size pole for your height. According to Adventure Buddies, a pole should reach the top of your hipbone at their "regular" length, if adjustable.
Where To Buy
Trekking poles can be purchased at stores that sell hiking equipment, like sporting goods stores, outdoor adventure stores, camping supply stores and specialty stores like Backcountry. Be sure to check an online store's return policy before purchasing, in case you purchase the wrong size poles or don't think they will fit your needs after trying them.
Cost
The Black Diamond Spire Elliptic Trekking Pole has an aluminum shaft, a dual-density rubber and foam grip and a carbide tip for $135 through Backcountry. The REI Relief Shocklight Trekking Poles have foam grips, a Titanal aluminum shaft and carbide tips for $99.95 through REI. Poles range in price from $80 to $150 depending on brand, features and store.
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