Trekking poles have become increasingly popular
among trekkers and hikers, mainly owing to the reason that they offer
tremendous balance on steep trails and save a lot of energy as well. According
to a study, it was found that use of trekking poles can reduce the force of
impact on your knees by 40%. Now this is something any trekker would love. So
in this post I have compiled things that you should consider when buying the best
trekking poles that suit your needs.
Mechanism of Pole Adjustment
In terms of pole adjustment mechanism, the lever
lock type is much better compared to twist lock models, in terms of being
durable, easier and instant to adjust. On personal experience, I found that
almost every model with lever lock system outlasts the twist lock mechanism
impressed poles, as they are less bothersome especially on dusty trails.
Basic Pole Construction Designs
Generally all trekking poles use three common
trekking pole designs including
- The two section telescoping – this design is the most stiff and strongest design among all and is ideal for activities including snowshoeing and skiing. Also people who are hard on the use of their backpacking trekking poles even on plain surfaces should opt for this design. This stiffness though comes with a price. The pole overlap design that offers the stiffness to it, prevents it from packing in very well and so carrying it on your pack is difficult. Also these types of pole are heavier compared to other types.
- The three section telescoping - This is the most common pole design found today and is comparatively much more compact as it can easily adjust in any suitcase and effortlessly carried behind on a pack. Three section designed poles are lightweight trekking poles compared to two section designed ones however they lack the similar strength. This does not mean that three section poles are not ideal for heavy duty or rugged treks. Rather this is the type that a majority of trekkers, hikers, climbers and mountaineers opt for.
- The tent or folding design – this relatively newer version of poles are categorized under ultralight trekking poles, besides being the most compact of all models. These poles though lack the durability of the two and three section poles however are efficiently used on trail backpacking and cross country medium duty travel. Exceptionally ideal for climbers owing to their easy packing ability. This type of poles are generally shorter than the other types by 7 to 9 inches, besides also being lesser in weight by 10 inches to 14 inches based on the material used for construction. Many models lack the removable basket feature contributed to the light weight that is a feature of this pole. Another major reason is that this pole is not intended basically for such use at the first place.
Construction Material
The
two popular materials used for construction of poles are carbon and aluminum.
Carbon trekking poles are stiffer, lighter and usually stronger. However if
these poles catch a dent or crack or take impact in any way, they are finished.
Aluminum is a bit heavier and can endure a dig or two.
Basket Size
This will depend on
what activity you are finding your best trekking poles for. Larger baskets are
good choices for snowy areas however choose smaller ones for forest areas as
big ones tend to get such in bushes. Since many poles have different diameters,
always take your pole along to the shop when replacing it.
Handle Material
There are three types of different handle materials you
will be looking for in your search of the best trekking poles
- Cork – this breaks in to the shape of your hand and is cooler than the rubber option but sweatier than foam.
- Rubber – good for use in cold areas as they do not absorb moisture at all. These are also heavier.
- Foam – extreme ability to soak sweat and is ideal for hot weathers. This is also the lightest and coolest material used in handles.
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