How to choose your hiking poles (beginner to expert)

Ah, hiking poles! Loyal companions on the trails, they can transform a walk into a true odyssey of comfort and performance. But with so many models available, how do you choose your hiking poles without making a mistake? As a passionate adventurer and outdoor equipment expert, I'm here to guide you, from beginner to expert, through this fascinating world. Get ready to equip your hands with the perfect tool for your next adventures.

The essential hiking ally: the unexpected advantages

One might think that hiking poles are reserved for seasoned athletes or seniors. Think again! Whether you're an occasional walker or a seasoned trekker, the benefits they provide are numerous and often underestimated. Let me enlighten you on why adopting these extensions of your arms is an excellent idea.

Firstly, and this is undoubtedly the most obvious, they offer invaluable support. Imagine a steep descent, a rocky passage, or a stream to cross: your poles are there to stabilize your balance, significantly reducing the risk of falling. It's like having four points of contact instead of two, a real all-risk insurance for your ankles and knees.

Secondly, they preserve your joints. By transferring part of your body weight to your arms and shoulders, the poles lighten the load on your knees and hips, especially on descents. Studies have shown a nearly 25% reduction in impact on the knees. For those who have experienced that nagging pain after a long day of walking, it's a real revolution!

Finally, they improve your performance and endurance. By engaging your upper body, you transform your walk into a more complete exercise, burning more calories and propelling yourself more efficiently, especially uphill. You gain rhythm, ease, and paradoxically, you tire less over time.

The keys to choosing the right hiking poles

Now that you're convinced of the usefulness of poles, let's get serious: how do you choose them? This is where my experience as an adventurer comes into its own. Several elements need to be considered to find the pair that will faithfully accompany you on the trails.

Aluminum or Carbon: the great dilemma

This is often the first question to ask. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages:

Personally, for strenuous hikes or when carrying a heavy pack, I often prefer aluminum for its robustness. For lighter outings or trail running, carbon is unbeatable. Our Hiking Poles at BaroudeurCamp are designed to offer an excellent compromise between lightness and strength, regardless of the material chosen.

Telescopic or foldable: practicality above all

The ability of your poles to be stored is an essential criterion, especially if you carry them often or if you alternate between walking and climbing.

Telescopic poles are perfect for versatile use. The locking system (screw or external lever) must be reliable. Foldable poles, on the other hand, are the kings of compactness, ideal for trail running or approaches where poles are stored most of the time. Their height adjustment is sometimes less precise, or even non-existent on some models.

Comfort at your fingertips

This is the main point of contact with your equipment, don't neglect it!

The straps are just as important. They should be adjustable, comfortable, and breathable. They allow you not to constantly grip the handle, to better distribute effort, and to avoid losing your poles if you accidentally let go. Learn to use them correctly: your hand should go through the bottom of the strap, then grasp the handle with the strap resting on top of your hand. A small detail that changes everything!

Grip on all terrains

The tips are generally made of tungsten carbide for maximum durability and grip. Rubber tips are often provided for walking on asphalt or fragile terrain.

Baskets, on the other hand, prevent the pole from sinking too deep into soft terrain (snow, mud, sand). They are generally interchangeable: small baskets for summer and classic hiking, large baskets for snow and snowshoes. Remember to check that the poles you wish to choose come with baskets suitable for your activity.

The right height, the right technique

This is a crucial step to fully enjoy your poles. The golden rule is simple: when you hold your poles, your elbow should form a right angle (90°) when the pole is placed flat on the ground, tip included. If you are walking on a slope, do not hesitate to adjust the height: shorter on the uphill side, longer on the downhill side. Uphill, you can also shorten them slightly for better support. Downhill, lengthen them a little for better balance.

• Stand up, with your hiking boots on.
• Hold the pole by the grip, with the tip on the ground.
• Adjust the height so that your elbow forms a 90° angle.
• Tighten the locking system firmly.
• Check the strap: it should be comfortable and well adjusted.

The mistake to avoid and the little extra

The most common mistake I see on the trails? Poorly adjusted poles or incorrectly used straps. Take the time to properly adjust your equipment before each departure. This ensures a more enjoyable and safer hike. For more information on essential equipment, feel free to consult our article on "How to choose your hiking tent" to be prepared for all eventualities.

The BaroudeurCamp little extra: our Hiking Poles are designed with particular attention to detail, from ergonomic cork or EVA foam grips, to reliable adjustment systems, robust tips, and interchangeable baskets. We have put all our expertise into offering you equipment that will faithfully accompany you, season after season.