Trekking poles are a standard piece of equipment for many trekkers, hikers, backpackers, and walkers. They are very useful because they provide great support and enhance stability on different types of terrains.
In addition to providing stability when moving or carrying heavy loads over tough terrains, trekking poles also come in handy on easy trails. You can use them to set a rhythm of reducing impact and load on knees, hips, and ankles when moving downhills.
However, there are many trekking poles on the market, and this makes it somewhat difficult for people to find the right one. With the numerous options on the market, it is easy to get lost when finding a good trekking pole and end up with one that might not serve you for a long time. In this article, we will share with you some of the traits that make a good trekking pole. At the end of this guide, you would know what to look out for when looking for the best trekking pole.
What Are the Traits of a Good Trekking Pole?
Here are some of the things that make a good trekking pole:
Material
One of the most vital things that contribute to the quality of a trekking pole is the material with which it was made. Generally, trekking poles are made with either aluminum or carbon fiber. Some models are made with a combination of the two materials.
The best trekking poles are usually made from carbon. Carbon is stiffer and lighter, but it is also more brittle and expensive. If your carbon trekking pole breaks, you might not be able to use it again. Aluminum might just bend or dent but you can still use it.
Some of the major reasons why people opt for aluminum trekking poles are overall durability and price. If you are a weight-focused hiker, you should go for an all-carbon trekking pole, as they are designed to handle a lot of pressure. If you are rough with your gear or you just want something casual, then you can opt for an aluminum pole.
Grip
The comfort of a trekking pole is determined by the grip. The material used to make the pole will determine how comfortable it would be in your hand. Different trekking poles come with different constructions. However, the most common materials used to make the grip of this equipment are rubber, cork, and foam.
Cork: Cork is a durable material that is resistant to moisture. This material provides great comfort as you continue to use it because the cork will contour to the shape of your hand. It also resists stink, thanks to its antimicrobial properties. The downside with this material is that it is heavy. Trekking poles with cork grips are also on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Foam: Foam is the most comfortable and softest material. This material provides exceptional comfort when hiking or trekking. However, it is not the best option when trekking in wet weather conditions, as it absorbs water easily. Grips made with foam also break down faster.
Rubber: Grips made with rubber are not as comfortable as those made with foam or cork. However, this material is the most water-resistant. It is the best option for those trekking or hiking during the winter or rainy season. Nevertheless, their water-resistant feature makes them chafe on hot days or during sweaty hikes.
The best material is dependent on your need and where you want to use the pole. In general, the grip of a good trekking pole should be comfortable on the hand. The best trekking poles are those with extended grips – sections of foams that are four to five inches down into the grip’s shaft. They are the best options for hiking terrains with many ups and downs.
Adjustability
Trekking poles come in different lengths and sizes. Many of them allow you to adjust the length of the unit for improved stability on different terrains. They usually adjust from about 24 inches to 55 inches in length. This makes them highly versatile and suitable for hiking on different types of terrains. You can lengthen the pole when going downhill or reduce the length when going uphill.
Some options out there do not adjust in length. They come with a fixed length, but they are lighter than those with adjustable lengths. These trekking poles are great for those who are hiking on terrains where they are sure that they only need a specific length. If you are going for this option, you need to consider your height and choose a pole that will complement your height.
Shock Absorption
Another noteworthy trait of a good trekking pole is shock-absorption capabilities. Trekking poles with a shock absorption feature are the best, as they provide you with super-smooth trekking or hiking experiences. They have an internal spring that absorbs shock when walking downhill.
The interesting thing about poles with this feature is that you can turn the feature off when it is not needed. This is a nice feature for many trekkers and hikers. Nevertheless, it is highly recommended for those with unstable knees, ankles, and hips. It is also great for those with joint issues or injuries.
Ergonomic Handle
Besides the material used to make the grip, another thing you need to look out for is whether or not the pole has an ergonomic handle. The best trekking poles are those with ergonomically designed handles. The design of the handle should mimic where your hands rest naturally. It should also not be too big for your hand. You need the perfect fit to hold it comfortably when trekking or hiking.
Final Thoughts
There are many trekking poles on the market, and choosing the best one is important for your journeys uphill and downhill. There are several things that make a good trekking pole, and most of them are listed in this guide. Other vital things to look out for include the weight of the pole. After the comfort it provides, the next most important thing is the weight of the pole. Lighter poles will not fatigue your arms quickly, and they are great for long-distance hiking. The durability and price of the pole are other vital things you need to consider.