Hiking sticks, also known as trekking poles, are valuable tools for outdoor enthusiasts. They help you maintain balance, reduce the stress on your joints, and make your hiking experience safer and more comfortable. If you’re new to hiking sticks or unsure how to use them effectively, this guide will walk you through the basics. We’ll cover everything from the benefits of hiking sticks to how to adjust them for the best fit and use them on various terrains.
What Are Hiking Sticks?
Hiking sticks are long, lightweight poles that hikers use for extra stability and support on trails. They are usually made from materials like aluminum, carbon fiber, or a combination of both. Hiking sticks come in different sizes and may be sold as a single stick or a pair, though most hikers prefer to use two for better balance.
The Benefits of Using Hiking Sticks
Before diving into the specifics of how to use them, it’s helpful to understand why hiking sticks are so beneficial.
Improved Balance: Hiking sticks provide extra points of contact with the ground, helping you maintain balance, especially on uneven or slippery terrain.
Reduced Joint Strain: They take some of the weight off your knees and hips, reducing the impact on your joints. This can be especially helpful on steep descents or long hikes.
Increased Stability: When you’re crossing streams, walking on rocky paths, or trekking in snow, hiking sticks give you more stability, reducing your risk of falling.
Better Posture: Using hiking sticks encourages you to stand up straighter, which can help with posture and overall body alignment during a hike.
Increased Endurance: By distributing the effort over your whole body, hiking sticks can help you conserve energy and hike longer distances.
Choosing the Right Hiking Sticks
Before you can use hiking sticks effectively, you need to choose the right pair. Here’s what to look for:
Adjustability: Many hiking sticks are adjustable, allowing you to change their length depending on your height and the type of terrain. This is particularly helpful when you’re hiking up or down hills. Fixed-length poles are also available but offer less versatility.
Grip: The grip should be comfortable and secure. Most hiking sticks have grips made of cork, foam, or rubber. Cork grips are the most popular because they wick away sweat and become more comfortable with use.
Material: Hiking sticks are made from different materials, each offering a balance of strength, weight, and price. Carbon fiber sticks are lightweight and shock-absorbing but can be more expensive. Aluminum poles are slightly heavier but are more affordable and durable.
Locking Mechanism: Most adjustable hiking sticks use either a twist-lock or lever-lock mechanism to secure the pole at the desired length. Lever-locks are quicker and easier to adjust, while twist-locks are more secure but may require more effort to adjust.
Weight: Lightweight poles are great for long-distance hikes because they don’t add unnecessary weight. However, a heavier pole can offer more stability and support, especially if you’re carrying a heavy pack.
How to Adjust Hiking Sticks for the Right Fit
Once you’ve chosen your hiking sticks, it’s time to adjust them for the best fit. Proper adjustment is key to maximizing their benefits.
Adjusting for Height: When standing upright with your arms relaxed at your sides, the grips of the hiking poles should be at the same level as your wrists. If you bend your elbows at a 90-degree angle, the poles should be just about the same height.
Adjusting for Uphill Terrain: When hiking uphill, shorten your poles by a few inches. This helps you maintain an upright posture and allows for a more natural stride.
Adjusting for Downhill Terrain: When hiking downhill, extend your poles slightly. This will help you stabilize yourself and prevent you from putting too much pressure on your knees.
How to Hold Hiking Sticks
The way you hold your hiking sticks can also affect your comfort and effectiveness.
Correct Hand Position: Place your hand through the wrist strap (if your poles have them) and grip the stick from the bottom of the handle. This allows you to use your arm muscles instead of relying solely on your grip strength, which can prevent hand fatigue.
Use the Wrist Straps: Most hiking sticks have wrist straps that help support your hands. Adjust them so that your wrist can rest comfortably in the strap, with your fingers free to hold the grip. The straps prevent the poles from slipping out of your hands when you’re climbing or descending.
Avoid a Death Grip: Gripping the pole too tightly can cause hand and wrist fatigue. Instead, use a loose grip and let the pole do the work.
Proper Technique for Using Hiking Sticks
To get the most out of your hiking sticks, it’s important to use them with proper technique. Here’s how to do it:
Walking on Flat Terrain: When walking on flat ground, use a natural alternating rhythm where you plant the opposite stick as your foot moves forward. For example, when your right foot steps forward, your left stick should be planted, and vice versa. Keep the poles at a slight angle to the ground.
Going Uphill: When hiking uphill, use your hiking sticks to push yourself up. Shorten the poles slightly to help you maintain balance, but keep your arms bent at a 90-degree angle. Plant your poles firmly as you climb, and use them to help propel you forward.
Going Downhill: When hiking downhill, extend your poles a little longer. Use them to steady yourself, especially on steep or rocky sections. Place the poles ahead of you and keep them close to your body, avoiding placing too much weight on them.
Crossing Streams or Difficult Terrain: When crossing streams, rivers, or rocky terrain, use your hiking sticks to test the ground before you step on it. The poles can help you find stable footing and prevent slips.
Climbing Stairs: When climbing stairs, keep your poles at a comfortable length and plant them firmly with each step. Use your arms to help with the climb, but make sure your focus remains on the footing.
Hiking Stick Etiquette
While hiking, it’s important to be mindful of other hikers and nature. Here are some etiquette tips for using hiking sticks:
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: When using trekking poles, be mindful of other hikers. Avoid swinging your poles wildly and make sure you’re not hitting rocks or trees unnecessarily.
Don’t Jam Poles into Soft Ground: Be careful not to damage the environment. Avoid jamming your poles into soft ground or delicate vegetation. Be conscious of wildlife and the impact of your poles on the ecosystem.
Be Cautious on Narrow Trails: On narrow or crowded trails, be aware of your poles’ width and use them only when needed. Always be courteous and step aside to allow others to pass.
When Not to Use Hiking Sticks
Although hiking sticks are beneficial in most situations, there are times when you might not need them or when they can be more of a hindrance.
Short Hikes on Easy Terrain: If you’re only going for a short hike on an easy, flat trail, hiking sticks may not be necessary. A simple walk on an even surface can be done comfortably without them.
Climbing: If you’re scaling a rock face or doing technical climbing, hiking poles are not suitable. They can be a hindrance and may get in the way of your climbing gear.
In Areas with Dense Vegetation: In areas with dense vegetation or thick brush, hiking poles can get caught in plants or tangled in tree branches. In these situations, it might be better to hike without them.
Taking Care of Your Hiking Sticks
To ensure that your hiking sticks last a long time, take care of them properly.
Clean Regularly: After each hike, clean your poles with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Pay attention to the locking mechanisms to ensure they don’t become stiff.
Check for Wear: Periodically inspect your poles for any signs of wear or damage. Look for cracks, bent sections, or loose parts. Replace any broken or worn components promptly.
Store Properly: When not in use, store your poles in a dry place, and avoid leaving them in direct sunlight for extended periods.
Conclusion
Using hiking sticks can greatly enhance your hiking experience. By improving your balance, reducing strain on your joints, and providing extra stability, they can make long hikes and challenging terrain more manageable. With the right adjustment, proper technique, and a little practice, you’ll be able to maximize the benefits of your hiking sticks.
Related topics: