My First Time Using Trekking Poles: What to Expect
{Written by Summit Hut Gearhead Jack Conners}
Hey fellow hikers! If you’re considering using trekking poles for the first time, let me share my experience and some tips to help you make the most of your adventure.
Why I Decided to Try Trekking Poles
Honestly, I was a bit skeptical at first. Do I really need these to hike? But after hearing all the benefits—like improved stability and reduced strain on my knees—I decided to give them a shot on my next hike out in Northern Arizona with some friends.
Picking the Right Poles
Before hitting the trails, I did some research. I discovered that there are a few key things to look for:
- Material: Carbon poles are super lightweight, while aluminum ones are more durable. I opted for aluminum since I tend to be a bit rough on my gear.
- Adjustability: I found that having adjustable poles is a game-changer. I could easily tweak the length to suit my height and the terrain. I went with telescopic poles.
Getting the Right Fit
When I first picked up the poles, I felt like a baby deer—wobbly and unsure! I adjusted the poles so that my elbows were at a 90-degree angle when I held the grips. This made a huge difference in comfort. Also, looping my hands through the straps to leverage my wrist into the pole grips felt like using a seat belt in a car. This made my hands feel secure and locked in.
The Learning Curve
At first, walking with poles felt awkward. It took me a few minutes to get into a rhythm, but here’s what helped:
- Finding My Pace: I learned to plant the pole opposite my foot—right pole with left foot. It felt strange at first, but once I got the hang of it, it helped with my balance.
- Navigating Terrain: On the way up, I leaned into the poles a bit for extra push. Coming down? I kept them extended for stability. This is important when your legs are completely spent from the hike up.
What I Noticed
Once I settled into the groove, I started to appreciate the benefits:
- Stability: On rocky or uneven paths, I felt so much more secure. The extra points of contact with the ground made a big difference.
- Joint Relief: My knees were thanking me! The poles helped distribute my weight, especially on steep descents.
- Endurance Boost: Using my upper body felt like a mini workout, which helped me feel less fatigued during the hike.
A Few Challenges
Of course, it wasn’t all smooth sailing:
- Coordination: It took some practice to coordinate my movements. I recommend starting on flat terrain before tackling tougher hikes.
- Arm Fatigue: Initially, my arms felt tired from all the extra work. I realized I just needed to build some strength, so I kept using them.
Final Thoughts
Using trekking poles for the first time was a fantastic experience. Once I got used to them, they transformed my hike into something even more enjoyable. The added stability and confidence in my hiking that poles give means less time looking at my feet and more time looking out at nature. If you’re on the fence about trying them, I say go for it! Embrace the learning curve and enjoy all the benefits that come with it.