How Much Do Hiking Sticks Help?
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Hiking sticks, or trekking poles, are not just for elderly hikers being cautious on the trails. Hiking sticks have a real utility in the world of hiking. We will examine the benefits of hiking sticks, how to choose the correct pair, and how to use them properly while on the trail.
Hiking sticks help a hiker maintain balance, utilize core and arm muscles on uphill ascents, and decrease joint compression and irritation on downhill descents. They aid in the crossing of water where you could be knocked off balance and can help traverse slippery or rocky terrain.
The Benefits of Hiking Sticks
Relieving joint compression - When you walk you put pressure on your knees and hips. When you are walking downhill and especially downhill over uneven terrain your joints take a beating. Uphill hikes can be just as unforgiving with ample amounts of weight being forced on your joints. Hiking poles can aid in joint relief and disperse the pressure to other extremities and even invoke the use of your core muscles.
Relieving the legs of all the heavy lifting - When hiking uphill you can use the poles almost like an extra set of legs, using the touch pints to gain leverage and help pull your body forward step by step.
Maintaining balance on uneven terrain - Whether you are hiking uphill or downhill, crossing a shallow body of water, or traversing slippery terrain, hiking sticks can aid in maintaining proper balance in these precarious situations
Can be used in the place of tent poles - Some trekking poles on the market are actually designed to be used in the place of tent poles. Having an item that is this versatile can save help save room in your backpack as well as lower the load weight making for a more enjoyable hike.
Can be used for defense against wild animals - While the chances are low that you will encounter an animal with a threatening demeanor, your chances are not zero. Therefore, you can use the hiking sticks as a make-shift weapon to ward off would-be animal assailants.
Can help with lower back pain - In a study conducted by Rachel Duckham at the University of Tennessee, hikers that used trekking poles reported reduced lower back and lower extremity pain.
How to Choose the Correct Pair of Hiking Sticks
Design
Telescoping - Far and way the most common pole design, the telescoping design allows for ultimate length customization. This can be useful in steep terrain ascents and descents. It can also be beneficial if you use your trekking poles as tent poles.
Tri-fold (Collapsable) - These poles are divided into three sections and each section can be separated and collapsed down to a very small size. Tri-folds are usually lighter in weight than their telescoping brethren. They are also a great option for cross-country trips where you may be using different modes of transportation and need to stow them away in luggage. Here is a great pair that will not break the bank.
Shaft Material
Aluminum - Aluminum poles are heavier in nature but they are typically cheaper in price. Aluminum is also more durable than carbon fiber and can still be used if bent from incorrect usage.
Composite (Carbon Fiber)- Carbon fiber is a composite metal usually composited with other metals such as graphite or other carbon materials. Carbon fiber is lighter than aluminum however they are not as durable. Therefore, they most likely will not last as long as their aluminum counterpart. They also are prone to breaking if used incorrectly, especially in colder weather. And once the poles break they are rendered useless.
Grip Material
Rubber - Rubber is great for cold weather hiking. Rubber itself is a natural insulator and will not feel as cold to the touch as plastic. Rubber is also great at absorbing impact (just think of your car tires). On the downside, rubber tends to break down faster than cork and is not great at maintaining grip when your hands are sweaty.
Cork - Cork is a very popular option among hikers. Cork is awesome in hot weather and handles sweat like a true champ. You will still have an amazing grip even with sweaty palms. Cork is highly durable and absorbs the shock of impact similar to rubber.
Foam - Foam is lightweight and also the most comfortable. However, the grips tend to break down faster than the others. On the plus side, they do have great moisture-wicking properties which can be beneficial in the summer months.
Correct Sizing
As a rule of thumb, when you are holding your hiking sticks at your side your arms should bend at a 90-degree angle. Anything less or more than 90 degrees will make for an uncomfortable posture and unnecessary tension in your shoulders.
How to use Hiking Sticks on the Trail
It should be self-evident but each of your hands will hold a single pole at the handle grip. You will maintain a normal gait and alternate left leg forward, and right arm forward with the hiking stick contacting the ground for leverage then, right leg forward, left arm forward. Again, with the hiking stick makeing contact with the ground for leverage.
On ascents, you can keep the poles closer to your body to avoid an awkward, hunched-over posture. If the ascent is steep then you can shorten the pole to make for a more comfortable ascent.
On steep descents keep the poles farther out from your body and use the poles to shift weight to your arms so both your legs and arms are engaged in the movement downhill. Using this technique will help you achieve optimal balance on these types of descents.
When not in use, pack the poles in your bag with a cover over the sharp edges. This will help prevent any rips or tears in your bag which could lead to even bigger issues on your current or future excursions.
If you pack your poles on the outside of your bag you should still use the pole cover to prevent the poles from snagging on trees or even other hikers. Be aware that the poles are attached to your bag and hike mindfully.