HI guys
What do you think are the most important things to look for when buying trekking poles?
Thanks!
HI guys
What do you think are the most important things to look for when buying trekking poles?
Thanks!
I would check a few things 1- weight 2- handle composition 3- moveable parts. The weight for obvious reasons, the handle of trekking poles can be various industrial vs bio wicking materials. Some absorb moisture better than others so read up on this before you make a choice. Lastly consider where you will be hiking: forest, cold environments, hot deserts… Sand/soil/grit… These inevitably make their way into moveable parts. If you like packing it up nice and small then awesome, but keep them clean when folding them up. Also some have built in spring action and a little give is nice but not always ideal.
The answer to this is going to very much be based on your personal preference. Walk around the shop with them, and always google some reviews.
So some things to avoid/note:
I definitely prefer flip-locks over twist-locks - basic construction, less likely to go wrong and easier to service in the field if necessary.
Thanks for the tips!
I’ve only had good good experiences with my Black Diamond carbon poles (bought them on sale; think aluminum is just fine if you’re on a budget), which ticks all the high-end tips:
Ergonomic cork grips.
Three piece adjustable with flick locks (love that secure “clip” when they are properly tightened)
Carbide tips
And small baskets (which I prefer i South Africa’s generally dry and firm terrain).
Personally I’ll also skip on the shock-absorbers; just seem like something else that can break and unless you’re running there’s not a great deal of impact in any case (or you need to re-look at how you use them).
And a big yes for two poles - it’s like an extra pair of skinny legs on steep terrain.