1. How to choose outdoor trekking poles
The choice of outdoor trekking poles can generally be selected according to the type of outdoor activities. There are many types of trekking poles on the market. Trekking poles have different shapes and prices. To choose a trekking pole that suits you, you must first consider the type of outdoor activities and terrain you are engaged in.
1. Backcountry hiking, mountaineering, snow activities
Most of the commonly used trekking poles are three-section adjustable trekking poles with aluminum alloy rods and carbon tungsten steel tips head, handle pads designed according to the human palm, and a snow ring that can be quickly disassembled. The more advanced trekking poles are even equipped with a shock absorber system, which can reduce the burden on the arms! We will have a more detailed introduction in the following parts introduction. Using two trekking poles provides better balance.
2. General hiking in suburban mountains, hiking on flat ground
Most of them use wood or iron poles, which are heavy and use iron poles The length of the trekking poles can be adjusted, but the adjustment is not as flexible as the three-section type. Most of the handles use pads that cover the poles. Some of them will design screw holes at the top of the handle to set up cameras, or set up a simple north guide. Needle, but it cannot be used for precise positioning!
3. Leisure mountaineering, daily use
Two-section, three-section, and four-section trekking poles can be used, depending on the carrying needs. The material can be selected from aluminum alloy struts, carbon fiber struts, and wooden struts.
Second, trekking poles buying guide
1. Check the locking
Put the trekking poles Tighten each section and press down fully to make sure it won’t break and the locking system can hold the weight.
2. Wear a wrist strap
Wear a wrist strap while hiking to make the walk comfortable, and swing the cane back and forth. Grind your wrist and keep looking. It is best to choose a soft wristband with some elasticity, which can be easily adjusted to the required firmness and is not easy to fall off.
3. Select the handle
Trekking poles with cork and foam handles are usually the first choice for those who tend to sweat easily or often hike in rainy days , because these materials have better friction even when wet. The handle of rubber, plastic and other materials will be slippery when wet, and the hand feel is not particularly good, but it is durable and strong. If your palms tend to sweat, avoid plastic grips, as they tend to slip out of your palms like wet fish. A cork or foam walking stick is best. Foam handles feel warmer in cold weather than cork, plastic, wood or rubber.
4. Select material
Aluminum alloy trekking poles are strong, light and cheap. Most manufacturers use aluminum alloy materials. If you’re a quality-conscious person, opt for the newer, lighter canes in carbon fiber or titanium. Carbon fiber, which is as strong as aluminum, but a bit lighter, but more expensive. Titanium alloys are lighter but more expensive. Both carbon fiber and titanium trekking poles are small in diameter and feel very light, and you can swing them quickly while using them, making it easy to get the tips into place.
5. Select the number of sections
First, choose according to the intensity of the activity. The more sections of the trekking pole, the lower the load-bearing capacity. When it comes to leisure activities, the most prominent thing is that it is convenient to carry, so the four-section stick is the first choice. When the activity has a certain intensity, the three-section stick is selected to ensure safety.