Hey there hikers, trekkers, and outdoor enthusiasts! Are you in the market for some new walking poles? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this post, we’ll break down all the different types of walking pole feet available and their pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision and hit the trail with confidence. From rubber feet to tungsten-carbide flex tips, we’ll cover it all. So grab a cup of coffee, kick back, and let’s dive in!

Importance of Hiking Poles

Walking poles, also known as trekking poles, hiking poles, or even just “those stick things hikers use,” can be a game changer when it comes to hitting the trails. Not only do they provide added support for your joints, particularly your knees, but they can also increase your overall stability and balance.

Plus, let’s not forget the added upper body workout they give you – who knew using your arms could be so beneficial for a hike?

But it’s not just about the physical benefits; walking poles can also improve your overall hiking experience by helping you navigate tricky terrain and even allowing you to cover more ground faster. So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie just starting out, don’t underestimate the power of a good walking pole.

 

 Types of Materials Used in Walking Poles

  When it comes to choosing a walking pole, one of the first things to consider is the material it’s made of. The most common materials used for walking poles are aluminium, carbon fibre, and composite.

 
Aluminium poles:

The most budget-friendly option, but they can be a bit heavy and not as durable as some of the other materials. Aluminium poles are lightweight, yet sturdy and durable, making them a great option for hikers of all levels.

 They’re also often adjustable, so you can customize the length to your body and the terrain you’ll be covering.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that aluminium poles may not be as shock-absorbent as some other materials, so if you’re someone who needs a little extra cushioning on your joints, you may want to consider a different option.

But overall, aluminium is a solid choice for a hiking pole that won’t break the bank.

Carbon fibre poles:

Super lightweight and super strong. But, they tend to be on the more expensive side.

One of the biggest benefits of carbon fibre poles is that they are extremely lightweight, which can be a huge plus for those who are looking to save weight on their hike.

Additionally, carbon fibre poles are also very durable, which makes them a great choice for those who are looking to use their poles on a regular basis. They are also known for having a good balance of stiffness and flex, which can make them more comfortable to use over long distances.

For instance, one study published in the International Journal of Advanced Research in Engineering and Technology found that carbon fibre hiking poles were able to withstand higher loads and had less deformation compared to aluminium poles.

The strength-to-weight ratio of carbon fibre is about 2-5 times greater than that of aluminium. For example, a study by the University of British Columbia found that a carbon fibre composite material was about 3 times stronger and 7 times stiffer than an aluminium alloy of the same weight

So if you’re looking for a lightweight and durable walking pole, carbon fibre is definitely worth considering.

It’s also worth noting that many manufacturers now use composite materials that combine carbon fibre with other materials, like aluminium or basalt, which can help to balance the benefits of strength and weight with the cost.

Titanium walking poles:

A great option for those looking for a balance of weight and durability. They are known for being lightweight, yet strong and durable. This makes them perfect for long hikes or backpacking trips where every ounce counts.

They are also corrosion resistant, which means they can withstand harsh weather conditions and last for a long time. Additionally, titanium is a biocompatible material, which makes it a great option for people with metal allergies

Bamboo:

A sustainable option that is lightweight and durable. It can also be more affordable than other materials. However, it may not be as strong as some other materials and may not hold up as well in extreme conditions.

Wood:

Also a sustainable option and can be lightweight and durable. However, they may not be as strong as some other materials and may not hold up as well in extreme conditions.

Material	Pros	Cons
Aluminium	Affordable, widely available, durable	Heavier than other materials
Carbon fibre	Lightweight, durable, good shock absorption	More expensive than aluminium
Titanium	Lightweight, durable, good shock absorption	Most expensive of all materials
Composite	Lightweight, durable, good shock absorption, customizable	Can be more expensive than other materials
Wood	Natural, eco-friendly, lightweight	Not as durable as other materials
Bamboo	Natural, eco-friendly, lightweight, good shock absorption	Not as durable as other materials

Fixed Length vs Adjustable

When it comes to walking poles, one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is whether to go with fixed length or adjustable poles. Both have their pros and cons, so let’s take a closer look at each option.

Fixed length poles are just what they sound like – the length of the pole is set, and can’t be adjusted. These poles are typically more durable and have a more solid feel to them. They’re also generally cheaper than adjustable poles, making them a great option for budget-conscious hikers. The downside is that they’re not as versatile as adjustable poles – if you’re hiking on terrain that varies in height, you’ll have to constantly readjust your grip on the pole to account for the changes.

Adjustable poles, on the other hand, can be adjusted to suit the terrain you’re hiking on. They’re a bit more expensive than fixed length poles, but the added versatility is often worth the extra cost. You can easily adjust the length of the pole to suit the terrain, which means you’ll have less fatigue on your hands and arms. The downside is that they’re not as durable as fixed length poles, and they can be a bit more difficult to use.

Type	Pros	Cons
Fixed Length	Affordable, durable, solid feel	Lack of adjustability, not as versatile
Adjustable	Versatile, easy to adjust for terrain	Expensive, less durable

Different Feet for Walking Poles

When it comes to hiking with walking poles, one important thing to consider is the type of tip or “foot” on the bottom of the pole. Different types of feet are better suited for different terrains, so it’s important to choose the right one for your hike. Here are a few of the most common options:

• • Rubber tips: These are the most basic type of foot for walking poles. They are great for hard surfaces like pavement or concrete, but not so great for anything softer or more uneven. They’re also not very good in mud or snow. Plus, they’re not good for rocky terrains.

• • Carbide tips: These are a bit more durable than rubber tips and are good for a variety of terrains. They’re especially good for hard-packed dirt and gravel, and can also handle rocky terrain pretty well. They’re not so great in mud or snow, but they are better than rubber tips.

• • Basket: These are like little saucers that attach to the bottom of the pole and are good for snowy or muddy terrain. They help to keep the pole from sinking too deep into soft ground. They’re not so great on harder surfaces like pavement or rock, but they are good on soft surfaces.

• • Spikes: These are like little claws that attach to the bottom of the pole and are great for icy or rocky terrain. They provide good traction and can help prevent slipping. They’re not so great on softer surfaces like mud or snow, but they are good on hard surfaces.

So, when choosing a foot for your walking pole, think about what type of terrain you’ll be hiking on. If you’re not sure, or you’ll be hiking on a variety of terrains, you might want to consider getting a set of interchangeable tips so you can switch them out as needed.

 One Pole vs Two Poles

Using one pole vs. two poles is a personal preference and can depend on the type of hike or trek you’re embarking on.

Using one pole, also known as mono-pole hiking, can provide more stability on uneven terrain and can also help with balance. It’s also a great option for those who are recovering from an injury or have limited upper body strength. On the downside, using one pole can put more stress on one side of the body and may not provide as much support as using two poles.

On the other hand, using two poles, also known as dual-pole hiking, can provide more support and help with endurance on longer hikes. It also allows for more efficient uphill and downhill hiking. However, it can be more tiring on the upper body and may not be as suitable for shorter hikes or hikes on flat terrain.

One pole:

Pros:

• • Allows for use of both hands for tasks such as taking photos or using a map

• • Can provide balance and stability on uneven terrain

• • Can reduce strain on one side of the body

Cons:

• • May not provide as much stability as using two poles

• • Can be difficult to navigate steep inclines or rocky terrain with only one pole

Two poles:

Pros:

• • Provides added stability and support on uneven terrain

• • Can reduce strain on both sides of the body

• • Can help with uphill and downhill hiking

Cons:

• • Can be cumbersome to carry and manoeuvre when not in use

• • Can limit use of both hands for tasks such as taking photos or using a map

In my opinion, using two hiking poles is the best option as it provides more stability and balance on uneven terrain, distributes weight more evenly across the body, and can help to increase the pace. However, it depends on individual’s preference and the trail conditions. If you are going on a short hike with easy terrain, you may not need two poles, but if you are going on a longer hike with more challenging terrain, it would be recommended to use two poles.

When purchasing poles, most of them will be sold as a 2-Pack.

The Importance of Hand Grips and Wrist Straps

When it comes to hiking with walking poles, the hand grips and wrist straps are just as important as the pole itself. The hand grip is the part of the pole that you hold onto, and it’s important to find one that feels comfortable in your hand and provides a good grip.

When choosing a hand grip, it’s important to consider the material it’s made from. Some common options include cork, foam, and rubber. Cork is a natural material that’s lightweight and provides a good grip, even when wet. Foam is another popular option, as it’s soft and comfortable to hold. Rubber grips offer a lot of durability and traction, but they can be a bit heavier than other materials.

Material	Pros	Cons
Cork	Lightweight, natural, comfortable and moisture-wicking, eco-friendly	Can be less durable over time, may retain odors
Rubber	Durable, easy to grip, comfortable and moisture-wicking	Can be heavy, may not be as eco-friendly
Foam	Lightweight, comfortable, moisture-wicking	Can be less durable, may retain odors
Wood	Eco-friendly, natural, lightweight, comfortable	Can be less durable, may be affected by extreme temperatures or humidity

Wrist straps, on the other hand, provide added support and stability, helping to reduce the strain on your hands and wrists when navigating uneven terrain.

They come in a variety of styles and materials. Some straps are adjustable, while others are fixed. Adjustable straps allow you to get a custom fit, while fixed straps provide a more secure and stable fit. Some straps are made from stretchy material, while others are made from a more rigid material.

For example, when you’re going downhill, the wrist straps can help keep your poles securely in your hands, so they don’t slip out or get away from you. This is especially important on slippery or loose terrain, where a single misstep could mean a nasty fall. Similarly, when you’re going uphill, the wrist straps can help keep your poles close to your body, which can give you added support and stability as you climb.

What Height Should Your Walking Poles Be

When it comes to walking poles, the most important thing is that they feel comfortable for you. A good way to figure out the right height for your poles is to bend your elbow at a 90 degree angle when the pole is planted on the ground. That way, you can use the muscles in your upper body to help push yourself along.

When you’re hiking uphill, you’ll want your pole to be a bit shorter than when you’re going downhill. That’s because when you’re going uphill, you’ll be leaning forward and need to plant the pole in front of you to help push you up. But when you’re going downhill, you’ll be leaning back and need to plant the pole behind you to keep your balance.

A general rule of thumb is that when the pole is on the ground, your hand should be at hip level when going uphill and at thigh level when going downhill. But it’s all about what feels comfortable for you. You might prefer a shorter or longer pole depending on your body and the terrain you’re on.

It’s always a good idea to try different pole lengths on different types of terrain so you can figure out what works best for you. And if you’re using adjustable poles, make sure you can easily change the length as needed. Overall, it’s all about finding the right fit for you.

How Walking Poles Reduce Impact on Joints

Walking poles can be a real game-changer when it comes to hiking, especially for those who suffer from joint pain. These handy little tools can help distribute the weight of your body more evenly across your legs and arms, taking some of the pressure off your knees, hips, and ankles.

When you’re out on a hike, you’re constantly pounding your joints with each step you take. This can be especially tough if you’re carrying a heavy pack or walking on rough terrain. But with walking poles, you can use your arms to help support your weight and reduce the impact on your joints.

Think about it like this: every time you plant your pole, you’re giving your legs a little break. You’re taking some of the weight off your knees and hips, and transferring it to your arms. This can make a big difference over the course of a long hike, especially if you’re dealing with joint pain.

One study conducted by the University of Jyväskylä in Finland found that using walking poles while hiking can reduce the load on the knee joints by up to 25%. Another study by the University of Michigan found that walking with poles can reduce knee pain in people with knee osteoarthritis by up to 30%.

Another benefit of using walking poles is that they can help improve your balance and stability. This can be especially helpful when you’re walking on uneven ground or over slippery rocks. With a pole in each hand, you have more points of contact with the ground, which can help prevent falls.

So, if you’re someone who struggles with joint pain or just wants to take some of the pressure off your legs, consider giving walking poles a try. They might just be the key to enjoying your hikes even more!

Best Walking Poles for Women

When recommending a walking pole for women, it’s important to consider factors such as weight, adjustability, and hand grip comfort. One option that could be well-suited for women is the Black Diamond Women’s Distance FLZ Trekking Pole. This pole is made from lightweight and durable aluminum, and features a women-specific ergonomic handle. It also has a 3-section foldable design that allows for easy adjustability and compact storage.

Best Walking Poles for Children

As for children, a good option would be the Black Diamond Youth Trail Pro Shock Trekking Pole. This pole is designed specifically for children and is made from lightweight and durable aluminium. It features a child-specific ergonomic handle and has a 2-section design that allows for easy adjustability. It also comes equipped with a shock-absorbing feature to reduce impact on joints while hiking.

How to Use Walking Poles Properly to Avoid Injury

First things first, make sure you check the tips above for the right pole length.

Then technique, when you’re using your poles, you want to make sure you’re using your arms to push down on the poles, not your hands. This will give you the most power and stability. And, make sure you’re keeping your elbows close to your body, this will help you maintain good form and avoid any shoulder or elbow injuries.

Another tip is to make sure you’re using the right type of tip on your poles. Different tips are better suited for different types of terrain, so make sure you’re using the right one. Rubber tips are great for hiking on rocky terrain, while carbide tips are great for hiking on ice and snow.

And finally, make sure you’re taking care of your poles. This may seem like a no-brainer, but a lot of people forget to clean and maintain their poles, which can lead to serious problems down the line. So, make sure you’re keeping your poles clean, lubricated, and in good working order.

Buy Online or In-Store

When it comes to buying walking poles, it really comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer to buy in-store so they can physically see and test the poles before making a purchase. This can be especially helpful if you’re not sure exactly what you’re looking for, or if you’re new to using walking poles.

Additionally, some people may prefer to buy from a store with knowledgeable staff who can answer any questions and provide advice on the best type of pole for their needs.

On the other hand, buying online can have its own set of advantages. Online retailers often have a wider variety of poles available, and at a lower cost than in-store. Additionally, you can easily compare prices and read reviews from other customers to help you make a decision.

I would recommend going instore to try different poles out. Check grips, adjustable vs fixed and the weights available. If the store is too expensive you can normally find the product online for a bit cheaper.

Overall, walking poles are a must-have for any hiker or mountain climber. They provide stability, reduce the impact on your joints, and can help you maintain a steady pace. By considering the factors mentioned above and selecting a pole that’s comfortable and suitable for the type of hiking or climbing you’ll be doing, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience.