When should I use trekking sticks?
The selection of trekking poles available for your outdoor adventures can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the choices, here’s a trekking pole primer for three common types of trekking poles:
- Standard poles: Standard poles are any trekking poles that don’t have an antishock feature. They can be made of aluminum or carbon.
- Antishock poles: Anti shock trekking poles are equipped with adjustable springs that help absorb shock when you hike downhill and can be turned off for hiking uphill.
- Compact trekking poles: Compact trekking poles are designed for smaller hikers with smaller hands. These poles are sometimes referred to as women’s trekking poles, but they can be used by anyone seeking a shorter, lighter pole with a smaller hand grip. These poles are lighter weight than standard poles, and they are easy to pack and carry.
- Trekking sticks: 'Trekking stick' usually refer to using a single pole, such as a Leki pole or other hiking staff, instead of a pair of poles. Trekking sticks are most effective if the terrain isn’t too rough and if you are carrying nothing on your back (except perhaps a small backpack).
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