Five Reasons to Use Trekking Poles

Five Reasons to Use Trekking Poles

Myth: Trekking poles are for the weak and elderly. While not the most fashion-forward of hiking accessories, they are among the most versatile. Here are five reasons to use trekking poles;

Shelter: Shave weight and speed up.

Want to go fast and light? Not only will the proper use of poles facilitate a quicker hiking stride, but they’ll also be handy when you trot into camp. A plethora of tents have come to market with fast-pitch options that allow smart backpackers to ditch conventional tent poles in favor of trekking poles.

Probe: Testing murky waters

Backcountry skiers constantly use their poles to probe and test the snowpack. Intelligent hikers do the same. A nerve-free extension of your arms, poles are ideal instruments to test and prod, poke and pry. Not sure how deep those rapids are? Probe and check. Is that poison oak on the trail? Brush it aside and stride on.

Medical Assistance: Crutches and splints

Broken ankle? Treat trekking poles like crutches. In a worst-case scenario, a trekking pole can serve as a splint for a broken leg – though make sure to undergo suitable training as even wilderness medical professionals debate the proper way to treat a broken femur.

Defense: Thwack if attacked

Mountain Lion on the trail? Bears beyond the bend? A trekking pole isn’t a bona fide weapon, but it’ll do in a pinch. Toss one like a javelin, wave them above your head to seem like a bigger threat or even scoop out scorpions that might be hiding in your hiking boots.

Mileage: Keep on keepin' on

Though first-time users will sometimes claim that they feel slower moving with poles, those accustomed to trekking poles will never switch back. Poles are proven to take a significant strain off of the knees, while simultaneously providing a rhythmic cadence that’s helpful on long journeys.

3 Active Junky Approved Poles

Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles: Reasonable and Reliable

Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles Starting at: $75.16

Black Diamond’s trusted durability in a 3-section package under a hundred bucks? Sounds good to us. These aluminum poles adjust from 66.5 to 140 cm, meaning they’re both easily lashed to packs and extended for taller trekkers or steep downhill sections.

Best For: Upgrading from a gnarled walking stick

MSR Flight 3 Trekking Pole: Ahead of the Pack

MSR Flight 3 Trekking Pole

MSR is a brand of choice for many guides and explorers. Find out why as you take wing with the Flight 3 Trekking Poles, a 3-section pole that packs down to a measly 57 cm. What’s more, the Flight model utilizes MSR’s SureLock tech, which guarantees a slip-free system and one-handed adjustability.

Best For: Alternating between using poles and stashing them

Leki Micro Tour Stick Vario: Top of the Line

Leki Micro Tour Stick Vario

Active Junky’s pushed this one well beyond the hiking trail – this lightweight and foldable beast has accompanied us on mountaineering missions and splitboard tours all winter long. A carbon upper pole (cloaked in innovative and ergonomic grips) supplies strength and shaves weight, while the aluminum lower section can handle dings. Not only are the poles ultralight, but also the snap-and-pull system cuts down transition times. Simply unlock the poles at the push of a button, pull the cord tight until the mechanism snaps and adjust as needed. Interchangeable baskets make this Leki system an ideal 4-season pole, one that’s rapidly become a favorite of Active Junky testers.

Best For: Trekkers, backpackers, mountaineers and backcountry skiers