How to Select Adjustable-Length Trekking Poles
- 1). Choose a pair of anti-shcok trekking poles if you have carpal tunnel or wrist issues. Anti-shock trekking poles have "shock absorbers" in the poles which absorb hits and shocks to the pole, relieving stress from wrists and hands.
- 2). Select a three pole set of trekking poles if you hope to pack them down into small daypacks. A three section pole breaks down into a smaller packable size than single or two pole designs.
- 3). Get sized for a set of trekking poles. Some poles are height adjustable and other are not. The trekking pole should be at a height where when they are on the ground and you are holding them, your elbows are at a 90 degree angle bend. Adjustable poles let you change the height on the trail, handy for off camber slopes.
- 4). Check the tip of the pole. Choose a basket and tip suitable to your hiking needs. If you snowshoe or hike in snow choose a pair of trekking poles with a large basket that floats in the snow. If you plan to hike hard pack ground or terrain, get carbide tips to prevent wear to the tip.
- 5). Check the wrist straps. Choose a pair that has wrists straps that prevent the poles from slipping out of your hand should you slip or fall.
