POLE GUIDE

8 Reasons to hike with poles

If you're heading into the forest, tackling rocky paths in the mountains or setting off on a multi-day trek, trekking poles can make your hike easier, safer and more efficient. Here's why you should consider bringing a pair on your next adventure:

01

Reduced strain on knees and hips

Trekking poles help distribute impact more evenly throughout your body, relieving pressure on your knees and hips. This is especially helpful during long descents or on hard-packed trails.

02

Improved balance with heavy backpacks

A loaded pack shifts your center of gravity and makes balance more difficult. Trekking poles add two extra points of contact with the ground, giving you increased stability on tricky sections and uneven terrain.

03

More efficient ascents and descents

When walking uphill, use your arms to push off with the poles and give your legs a break. When walking downhill, use the poles as brakes to stay in control and reduce impact on joints and muscles.

04

Better posture on long hikes

Poles encourage a more upright posture, helping you avoid hunching forward. This not only makes breathing easier but also reduces strain on your back and shoulders over long distances.

05

Increased stability on uneven ground

Loose gravel, muddy trails, snow-covered paths or slick roots – trekking poles give you extra grip and stability when the terrain gets unpredictable. You’ll feel more confident with each step.

06

Enhanced upper body workout

With poles, hiking becomes a full-body activity. You'll engage your arms, shoulders and core, increasing your calorie burn and building upper body strength without even noticing.

07

Assistance in water crossings and probing terrain

Use your poles to test water depth, check for hidden holes or find stable footing in streams or snow. They're great tools for assessing the trail ahead and avoiding surprises.

08

Reduction of hand swelling

Keeping your hands in motion and elevated with poles helps prevent the swelling that can occur during long hikes. Better circulation means more comfort.

01

Reduced strain on knees and hips

Trekking poles help distribute impact more evenly throughout your body, relieving pressure on your knees and hips. This is especially helpful during long descents or on hard-packed trails.

02

Improved balance with heavy backpacks

A loaded pack shifts your center of gravity and makes balance more difficult. Trekking poles add two extra points of contact with the ground, giving you increased stability on tricky sections and uneven terrain.

03

More efficient ascents and descents

When walking uphill, use your arms to push off with the poles and give your legs a break. When walking downhill, use the poles as brakes to stay in control and reduce impact on joints and muscles.

04

Better posture on long hikes

Poles encourage a more upright posture, helping you avoid hunching forward. This not only makes breathing easier but also reduces strain on your back and shoulders over long distances.

05

Increased stability on uneven ground

Loose gravel, muddy trails, snow-covered paths or slick roots – trekking poles give you extra grip and stability when the terrain gets unpredictable. You’ll feel more confident with each step.

06

Enhanced upper body workout

With poles, hiking becomes a full-body activity. You'll engage your arms, shoulders and core, increasing your calorie burn and building upper body strength without even noticing.

07

Assistance in water crossings and probing terrain

Use your poles to test water depth, check for hidden holes or find stable footing in streams or snow. They're great tools for assessing the trail ahead and avoiding surprises.

08

Reduction of hand swelling

Keeping your hands in motion and elevated with poles helps prevent the swelling that can occur during long hikes. Better circulation means more comfort.

Level up your pole technique

Learn how to make the most of your poles in our guide: How to Hike with Poles.

LEARN HOW
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