How To Choose The Best Trekking Poles & Hiking Poles | Trekking Pole Buying Guide

If you're going trekking in Australia or overseas, it's worth taking walking poles with you. They provide stability and support while you walk, making it easier on your body and creating a more enjoyable experience. Hiking poles give hikers of all ages better balance and posture, and they take some of the pressure off your spine, knees, hips and ankles, so you can walk faster and for longer at a time.

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• Are Hiking Poles Worth It?
• What Types Of Hiking Poles Are Available?
• Choosing The Best Trekking Poles For Your Style Of Hiking
• How To Choose The Right Walking Pole Height
• Key Features To Look For In Hiking Poles
• Maintaining Your Hiking Poles

Are Hiking Poles Worth It?

Hiking poles can make a big difference on the trail, helping with balance and reducing strain on your joints. They're especially useful on uneven terrain or during long walks. Many hikers find that they add comfort and stability, making the journey more enjoyable.

Why Should You Use Hiking Poles?

Hikers of all ages can benefit from using walking poles:

• They give you four points of connection to the ground instead of two (your legs and poles).
• Your balance is better when walking downhill, and there's less load on your body going uphill.
• Treks that can be difficult or potentially dangerous can become a whole lot easier.
• Turns on your core muscles so they help you walk instead of your legs doing all the work.
• Less stress is placed on your spine and the joints in your hips, knees and ankles.
• They're perfect for bad knees, leg injuries, hip or knee operations, and tackling tricky terrain.
• You can use your poles to clear your path when walking and to scare wild animals away.

Benefits For Stability, Balance & Joint Relief

Hiking poles provide extra points of contact with the ground, enhancing balance and stability on uneven trails. They can reduce the impact on knees, hips, and ankles, particularly during descents or when carrying a heavy pack. Poles also help distribute weight more evenly, which can reduce fatigue on long hikes. Many hikers find that poles give them more confidence, allowing them to tackle technical terrain safely.

What Types Of Hiking Poles Are Available?

There are several types of hiking poles designed to suit different trails and personal preferences. Some are lightweight and simple, while others offer more features for rugged terrain. Knowing the main options helps you find poles that match your needs.

Fixed-Length Trekking Poles Vs Adjustable Poles

Fixed-length poles have a set height and are typically lightweight and simple to use. They're great for hikers who prefer a straightforward design and consistent feel. Adjustable poles, on the other hand, allow you to modify the length to suit different terrains, inclines, or shared use with other hikers. They're versatile and can be shortened for downhill sections or extended for steep climbs.

Foldable/Z-Poles

Foldable or Z-shaped trekking poles break down into smaller segments for easy transport and storage. They're ideal for backpacking or travelling where space is limited. Despite their compact size, modern foldable poles are designed to be sturdy and reliable on the trail.

Anti-Shock & Suspension Hiking Poles

Anti-shock or suspension poles feature a built-in mechanism that absorbs impact on rough terrain. This can significantly reduce stress on your joints, especially when hiking downhill. They are particularly useful for longer treks or hikers with existing joint concerns.

Choosing The Best Trekking Poles For Your Style Of Hiking

Think about the kind of hiking you do most often when selecting poles. Short, gentle walks may not need as much support as steep or uneven trails. Picking poles that suit your style will improve comfort and control on every hike.

Day Hiking

For short day hikes, lightweight adjustable poles or basic fixed-length poles are usually sufficient. They provide stability without adding unnecessary weight. Comfort grips and wrist straps enhance convenience for quick outings.

Trekking & Backpacking

Longer treks with a loaded pack benefit from durable, adjustable poles with good shock absorption. Aluminium or carbon fibre poles with secure locking mechanisms are ideal. They offer a balance of weight, strength, and stability for extended hiking days.

Snow, Mud & Technical Terrain

For challenging conditions, poles with aggressive tips and strong materials are essential. Anti-shock features and adjustable lengths help navigate slippery or uneven surfaces safely. Rubber or carbide tips can be swapped depending on terrain.

Best Trekking Poles For Beginners

Beginners often benefit from simple, adjustable poles with comfortable grips and basic shock absorption. Lightweight and easy-to-use designs help new hikers focus on technique rather than complex adjustments.

How To Choose The Right Walking Pole Height

The correct pole height keeps your posture natural and reduces fatigue. Poles should allow your elbows to bend slightly while keeping your arms relaxed. Adjustable poles are handy if you hike on varying terrain or share them with others.

How To Measure Correct Pole Height

The correct pole height allows your elbows to form roughly a 90-degree angle when your hand grips the handle. Adjust the length to suit your body and terrain. Downhill sections can benefit from slightly shorter poles, while uphill climbs often require a small extension.

Recommended Pole Length By User Height

Key Features To Look For In Hiking Poles

Look for features that improve comfort, durability, and usability on the trail. This could include grip material, tip type, and ease of adjustment. Choosing the right features ensures your poles work well for the terrain you explore.

Choosing Your Hiking Pole Material

Aluminium

Aluminium poles are robust and slightly heavier, making them durable for all-terrain use. They handle impacts well and are less likely to break under pressure. They're ideal for hikers who prioritise reliability over minimal weight.

Carbon Fibre

Carbon fibre poles are extremely lightweight and excellent for long-distance hiking or backpacking. They absorb vibration better than aluminium but can be more prone to breakage under extreme stress. They're ideal for fast, endurance-focused hikers.

Best Material For Durability

For the most rugged use, aluminium or a hybrid aluminium-carbon design often provides the best combination of durability and weight savings.

How To Choose The Right Trekking Pole Weight

Heavier poles are more stable on rough terrain but can increase fatigue over long distances. Lightweight poles are easier to carry but may flex more under heavy loads. Balance your choice based on terrain and hiking style.

Locking Mechanisms

Locking mechanisms come in a few designs, with twist-lock and lever-lock systems being the most common. Both have unique advantages and drawbacks.

What Mechanism Is Most Reliable?

Lever-locks are easy to adjust even with gloves and are generally more reliable in wet conditions. Twist-locks are lighter but require careful tightening to prevent slipping.

Grips & Straps

The grips and straps on trekking poles play an important role in comfort and control. A comfortable grip helps reduce hand fatigue on longer hikes, while straps offer extra support and stability. Choosing the right combination can make your walks feel easier and more enjoyable.

Cork Grips

Cork grips mould to your hands over time, reduce sweat and provide excellent comfort. They are ideal for long hikes and warmer weather.

Foam Grips

Foam grips are soft, lightweight, and comfortable, absorbing shock well. They tend to dry quickly after rain or sweat.

Rubber Grips

Rubber grips provide excellent durability and grip in wet conditions. They're a good option for rugged terrain or hikers who frequently use anti-shock poles.

How Wrist Straps Improve Support

Wrist straps reduce hand fatigue by distributing weight from your grip to your wrist. They improve control and stability, particularly on steep or technical terrain.

Choosing The Best Trekking Pole Tips

The tips of your trekking poles affect traction and performance on different surfaces. Some tips are better suited to soft trails, while others work well on rocks or harder ground. Picking the right tips for your hiking conditions helps you stay steady and confident on the trail.

Types Of Trekking Pole Tips

Carbide tips are excellent for rocky terrain, providing superior grip. Rubber tips are perfect for hard surfaces or trail sections, and interchangeable designs allow flexibility for mixed terrain.

Maintaining Your Hiking Poles

Looking after your hiking poles properly will help maintain their performance and extend their lifespan over time. Start by giving them a thorough clean. Take the poles apart and wash each component with mild soap or a biodegradable detergent and water, then rinse well and dry with a towel before allowing everything to air dry completely. Once dry, reassemble and store them safely. This deep clean is best done about once a year, while a simple wipe with a damp cloth after use is a quick way to keep them in good condition between trips.

With regular use, the rubber feet and carbide tips will naturally wear down and may need replacing to ensure reliable grip. Rubber feet can be easily removed and fitted with new ones, while carbide tips can be unscrewed with a spanner and replaced securely. When not in use, store your poles in a cool, dry place and make sure they are completely dry beforehand. To avoid damage, use them only as intended for walking support and minimise any heavy impacts or sideways pressure that could affect their strength and performance.

Play More & Pay Less With Quality Hiking Poles At Anaconda Today

Hiking is a great way to get fit and active while experiencing the great outdoors and having quality hiking and trekking poles can make it much more comfortable, safe and enjoyable. Make sure you are fully stocked up on all your hiking needs, including tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, hydration solutions and much more. Make sure you check out our Adventure Centre for more helpful tips and buying guides.

If you liked our Hiking Pole Buying Guide, then you might also like some of our other helpful articles, such as:

• The Ultimate Checklist For Hiking Essentials
• Hiking Clothing Buying Guide
• Hiking Essentials Buying Guide
• Hiking Backpack Buying Guide

Find your local Anaconda store and check out our extensive hiking pole range for your next outdoor adventure.