A backpacker and mountain climber couple in the Andes of Peru cross a wild mountain stream
A little bit of basic trekking pole maintenance goes a long way toward keeping them performing at their peak. The last thing you want is for your poles, especially adjustable ones, to start malfunctioning in the middle of a hike. Poor maintenance can lead to your pole connections sliding around or getting stuck due to gunk or moisture building up in the joints. If you use your poles in wet or muddy conditions, or you begin to see buildup from regular use, you definitely need to clean them before using them again. However, keep in mind that more regular maintenance can keep dirt and grime from building up over time, keeping your poles at peak performance and saving you from a more intense cleaning later on.
Each pole manufacturer has recommendations for maintenance, so check for any brand-specific care tips before you start to clean your poles. There are specific methods for cleaning expander, push-button, and snap-lock poles. However, these common care tips apply to all trekking poles:
1. Dismantling
The first step of trekking pole maintenance is dismantlement. You can wipe down the outside, but you can’t thoroughly clean trekking poles without taking them apart. When it’s time to clean your poles, unlock each section to separate them. Different types of hiking poles will dismantle in different ways, so be sure to consult the manufacturer’s instructions so that you don’t harm the poles.
2. Drying
The next step in trekking pole maintenance is the drying process. After using your poles in a stream or in the snow, use a soft cloth to dry the insides of your trekking poles as best you can. If you can’t reach every spot, try using household items like a coat hanger, the end of a wooden spoon, or a cleaning brush to lengthen your reach.
3. Dirt Removal
Make sure to check every part of the poles for buildup. Use a small brush to clean dirt from the insides of trekking poles and from around the locking mechanisms. Cleaning and drying your poles keep the locking mechanism from slipping or sticking so that your hiking poles stay secure. As you clean, make sure to avoid scratching the inside of the poles. Dirt or ice could get lodged in the scratches during your next hike, thus creating more issues.
Other Tips for Trekking Pole Maintenance
Group of young friends hiking in countryside. Multiracial happy people traveling in nature
Besides following the above steps, there are some general tips to do and not do when maintaining your trekking poles. For one, do not use any type of lubricant when you clean your poles. The buildup of cleaning products can negatively affect your poles just like dirt and grime from the outdoors.
On the flip side, do make sure to inspect your poles when you clean them. Take the time to feel and look for cracks, dents, and other issues. If a part of your pole is damaged, you might need to order a new part to keep your poles in tip-top shape.
By following the three steps for trekking pole maintenance, your poles will help you have the best outdoor adventures! For more tips and advice on hiking or any other adventures you plan to have, come see us at your local Sun & Ski Sports. Or, check out the Adventure Resource Guide (ARG). There, you can find great articles on your favorite outdoor activities including our nighttime running guide and our trail difficulty guide.