NO TREKKING POLES? Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike 2018 Prep #8

[@baskets8429]

I’ve been doing lots of balance as well , very smart ideas here , check out the slack block, I bought one it’s great for strengthening ankles and stability.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for a second comment! This one had me lost on Google for about an hour. I didn't know about the SlackBlock or the whole balance movement. I'm up to speed now. I think that it's going to help me prepare for my thru-hike. Thanks again.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Steve, just as an update, your comment has led me to two great books, "Balance: In Search of the Lost Sense," by Scott McCredie, and "Balance Is Power," by Jim Klopman. I've read them both now. I also bought a SlackBlock and I think it's great for balance practice despite its steep price. Thanks again for pointing me in this direction. The two books have confirmed the initial thoughts I expressed in the video about the importance of balance.

[@baskets8429]

Evan's Backpacking Videos your welcome ! I’m gonna check out the balance is power book, glad to hear you got the slack block , it truly is a great piece of equipment for balance workouts!

[@jimpflugrath6220]

I feel compelled to comment as I go through Evan's older videos. I used trekking poles for the first time in April while I was in the Sierras. It was my first backpacking trip since my ankle surgery, so basically a rehab/physical therapy trip for me. I decided I was going to keep using poles.. My rationale was that you don't see any 2-legged mammals in the mountains walking around. They all have 4 legs which helps them move around without falling over. Yes, as a human one should want to maintain their balance and not become dependent on trekking poles, but those poles turned me into a 4-legged beast. I hiked first with one pole, then with 2 poles. When I strained a ligament in my knee, the poles were important to keep me going and helped get that strain pain-free after a couple more days of hiking. Without the poles, I probably would have had to bail out. A few more things: (1) To help with balance, one can stand on one foot whenever one is microwaving something at home, (2) when crossing streams the poles were important to spread my balance points to make the crossing much safer and dryer, and (3) in the video I didn't see the pole straps being used much by the folks with poles. The straps are important to me just like straps on cross-country ski poles are important. If I want to use my hands for a moment I just let the poles hang from my wrists as I drag them along. It also seemed like the friends in the video had their poles set too long, so they couldn't use them the way I would use them with most of the weight on the straps and not on my hand grips. And while foot placement and balance are important whether using poles or not, I find that I am looking at the scenery around me much more when I am using poles. So I choose to use trekking poles.

[@toocleanpappas5397]

I carry them to set up my tent. Other than that I stopped using them at Damascus and did 1700 miles without them. After a while I noticed my knees looked different. At first, I thought they were swollen but then realized that I had developed stabilization muscles on the left and right of my knees. I actually think my balance got a lot better by not using them. Also, burning 20% less calories on a long trail is great. Helped slow down my weight loss. Still went from 175 to 146 at the end. I do like having them for river crossings and a few wet slick areas. If you decide to carry them for your tent and for rare occasions like river crossings, I highly recommend the Gossamer Gear poles. I think they are about 8 oz for the pair. -Too Clean

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the interesting comment!

[@bjdan3667]

I love it!!! Every hiker should watch this. I couldn’t agree more with your analysis. I’ve been hiking for over a decade in sandals and no poles. I started with big ol hiking boots and poles and a 40+lbs pack. Over the years my pack got smaller, lighter, and I got more experience. I will not go back!!!

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the input! I'm enjoyed hearing about everyone's personal experiences. And I'm glad to hear there are others who are making the same choices as me. When you're in the woods in sandals and come across a big group of guys wearing boots, you sure do get some looks, if not outright flak!

[@Nerding4Nature]

I only started using trekking poles a couple years ago, and feel a little naked without them. When I was working as a park ranger, I did some of the hardest trails of my life with pretty heavy loads with no poles. Like you said, not having them frees up your hands, and when we are constantly stopping to do trail work or look at papers or something work-related. I did often pick up a stick so I could flick sticks up off the trail, and I could leave it behind when it started getting in the way. Now I would love having my hands free to film.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Interesting, a trail maintainer on the Benton MacKaye trail has been corresponding with me and said something similar to you. And on your other point, I also like having my hands free for filming . . Appreciate the comment!

[@wildsaij5678]

This does not surprise me at all, Evan! You are a BEAST! I am still shocked you hike in zero sandals, no tent; just a tarp with no protection hardly at all. I think you are just hardcore and an inspiration! Good luck to you :)

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Well, thanks, but most of my ideas are stolen from others. Really appreciate the comment. A point of clarification: I have Xero sandals for running on pavement, but in the woods, I use Luna sandals.

[@TheAdventureGeek]

Love the way that you put you videos together. The adventure along with a gear review is something different. It’s entertaining and the neat tips are fab! Keep up the great work and hike on.

[@huycao9788]

Another great video Evan. I like your out-of-the-box thinking on things most of us take for granted. I too feel that poles throw me off balance because I become over-dependent on them to keep myself upright. Also, with my stubby little legs, I have to use a pretty fast cadence and the poles throw off my natural gait and rhythm because my arms are no longer in sync with my legs. So I'm going experiment with carry one pole to help with water crossings and setting up my shelter but it will be strapped to my pack most of the time.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

The one-pole experiment sounds like a good idea. Hope it works out for you! Thanks for the comment and for sharing your experience . . .

[@jasonwish-]

Awesome place Evan! and great company too! It reminds me a lot of Red River Gorge in Kentucky and Archers Fork in Wayne National Forest in Ohio. Those are all excellent reasons for using trekking poles.... I feel the pros mostly outweigh the cons, unless its flat....I am a recent convert :)

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the comment, appreciate it! Yes, the BSF and the Red River Gorge have many similarities. The Sheltowee Trace goes though both . . .

[@Smilin_Don]

Good discussion. You've done your homework on the pros & cons. Over the course of my life, I've hiked with and without trekking poles. On the AT they saved my butt more than once, particularly in the Smokies when the trail was covered in ice and snow. On the other hand, there were sections where I folded them up and strapped them to my pack. It was a plus to have the choice. I hiked with several people who began without poles. All but one either bought poles or had them sent to him/her. You'll figure it out for yourself and HYOH. I enjoyed this video Evan, thanks for sharing. Now to check out Trent's channel.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the comment and the HYOH sentiment. I enjoy hearing the personal anecdotes like yours. Ice and snow is definitely a huge consideration. I'm leaving Springer nobo on April 20 so will be in the Smokies a little later than some. However, when I went through the Smokies in late April 2016 on the Benton MacKaye Trail, it snowed at AT elevations and iced at mine, so I know that's a risk to be noted . . .

[@uptrail7169]

Very Good Evan! You covered the " Why or Why Not" to use trekking poles very good! For myself using a lighter pack is one good reason for not using them. A few years ago my total pack weight was over 30 lbs and we did use trekking poles. I did take my poles with me for my last trip, but you won't see a video for it. My truck broke down only a few miles from the trailhead in 20 F weather. My wife drove 160 miles to pick me up!

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Sorry to hear about your truck! The weight of a pack is definitely an important point to consider. I knew when putting together this video that you were a no-poles guy. I actually had a list of people who don't use poles on KZbin but it got cut for length. Sorry!

[@uptrail7169]

You covered this topic so good and didn't need to do that list. This was a very good video!👍

[@iam_whittle]

Great vids! I'm on the AT quite a bit mostly between Springer and Franklin. Sometimes it's hard to find good limbs around the campsites in Feb-april. It's crowded and still cold so fires are common, sometimes big ones. I use a 5×9 tarp from mld and bag mostly, but have a duo for the winters. It gets real cold, sometimes extremely cold and wet. Also there will not be leaves on ground. Anyways it's just a tip. See ya on the trail- 👣

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Great thoughts, thanks for watching and commenting! I appreciate your sharing your experience. Your comments are noted!

[@kendog53]

I have questioned trecking poles many times while walking. For me flat and most uphills there ok. They help you keep rythm and like you said maybe just a crutch. But down hills, they really make there money for you. I was coming down off a mt. In the sierras trying to make up some time, rounded a switch back. I tripped in my hurry and without my poles helping me I would of been a goner. A guy can carry on there pack and switch off. Thinking about it, I believe I will use effectively about .5 the time and try it out. I look forward to your videos and am excited to follow your walk.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

The downhills are definitely a concern. I'm specifically training my knees for the downhills with the "Peterson step-up" and other exercises . . .

[@mcolynuck]

I used x-country poles when I did the West Coast Trail back in '97. I don't remember seeing anyone else with poles but if there were, they were very much in the minority. My experience was that they were very helpful as I had a very heavy pack and so I could just lean forward on them to rest while still standing, to get up off a seated position on a log with the pack still on, and also to help me balance myself as I went over or under downed trees. They were also helpful in keeping my mind active during longer sections of boredom. I've since bought adjustable poles and sometimes found them helpful and sometimes a hinderance as shown in your video. I expect I'll have them with me on the AT in 2019.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the comment!

[@JuliaJulia007]

Hi Evan. New subscriber. I didn't realize that anyone felt as I do about trekking poles. Every time I've been out I find myself carrying them more often than not. This evening I used the KZbin search bar just for this subject and here you popped up. I'd already decided to leave my poles at home but now I'm sure that I will because I know the AT terrain where I'm heading. I too feel like a kid out there unencumbered by something extra to do.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Good luck on your hike!

[@burnindaylighthikers98]

GR8 video. Now Trent has 22 subs. including our sub. The Big South Fork is our fav. area other than the Smoky Mtns. We have hiked four trails there ( BSF) so far. Hoping to post them in the coming weeks . We don't use poles. BUT our longest day hike was only 8 miles. Sometimes we use a hand carved ,walnut walking stick . Cool flashlight trick Evan.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the input! Appreciate it. I'm lucky to live relatively close to Big South Fork. It's a huge place that I'll never exhaust it. And you can camp anywhere!

[@snaponjohn100]

Are use trekking poles now. For all the reasons that you stated. But some of the few that you didn’t that mean a lot to me are: 1. They keep my hands and fingers from swelling up to the point where I can barely close my hands. 2. I’m long-distance hikes keeps your upper body from completely disappearing. 3. When going up hills I can use my upper body to help propel me upward that is a major plus. 4. Where I hike there’s ticks everywhere. I can see them on the tips of weeds alongside the trail with their legs sticking up waiting for somebody to walk by. I use my trekking poles to deflect the weeds away from my body. 5. The weeds along side the trails that have birs that stick your clothing. Are use my poles to deflect those weeds away from me also. Where I hike there is jagged Chert in bedded in the ground everywhere. I walk very deliberately all of the time because if you do fall you’re going to be hurt almost every single time. My trekking poles keep me from falling every time I go out. I am a lot older than you, however,61....just my opinion. Keep up the great work. God bless. John

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Great response, thanks for taking the time to put together such a thoughtful comment. I appreciate hearing about your personal experience. Lots of great ideas in these comments so far! Ticks is something I didn't think of . . .

[@TwoTracksOutdoors]

Evan, I know you'll try more hikes without trekking poles before your AT adventure begins next spring. That being said, if you're still on the fence about whether to take, you might want to consider taking just one, strapped to your pack, adding little overall weight, thus not hindering your hands for other tasks but making available when needed. Just a thought. Looks like you and friends had a good time in Big South Fork. Thks for sharing the video.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Great idea, noted! I really appreciate your input. The backpacking trip was great -- a great place!

[@ArnieLovesHiking]

It is always good to have someone out there, experienced, who tries new ways of doing things. No doubt you are that guy! Always enjoy how you focus on a topic in your videos and explore it thoroughly. Glad you found a way to make your head lamp light red - especially if you are going to be coming into where I am camping after dark! LOL. Keep it up Evan. They are all great.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Yes, I know you were wondering how the flashlight thing would turn out. Someone sent me that hack in a message over Instagram and it worked great. As always, thanks for watching and commenting!

[@ArnieLovesHiking]

Right back at ya.

[@TheWeekendHiker]

Some very good points. I started carrying just one trekking pole, instead of two, since I film on the trail. I found it too cumbersome with both trekking poles. This way I have a free hand and I can still catch myself in the muddy slick spots. Thanks for sharing Evan. - ATB Adam 🐢

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks Adam -- yes, one trekking pole is a viable option for vloggers (and others -- but isn't everyone a vlogger now, lol!)

[@yoadrianne466]

My husband and I run trails and day hike. We do not plan on using poles when we start backpacking next year. Our BA copper spur arrived yesterday, exciting!!

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Good luck with the backpacking!

[@AlanMETALMAN]

Great trail, with great views and real inventive use of branches in setting up your tarp. With you 100% on using poles while out hiking, I have bad knees, so I find them invaluable in keeping the weight off both my knees and hips. I also this they give you so much more stability, especially coming down a steep incline. Great video, cheers Alan

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Your input is noted, thanks for the comment!

[@richardksimpson800]

Great Video. No trekking poles here. I tried them. I really really wanted to love them. Trained with them a bit then ditched them. I am an ultralight packer. I like to hike fast and trail run when I can. Training and fitness are both paramount. Leave your hands free and leave the unnecessary goodies at home. I'm 49 years old and find that staying fit ( like really fit not just using light mayo and drinking light beer ) is the ticket to solving the balance and soreness issues people moan about.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Yes, good comment thanks!

[@willpotter8343]

Glad someone else shares my views about not using poles. I’m 51 and have been climbing and walking in scotland for over 30 years. I have recently chosen not to bring poles. I am starting to find them an encumbrance and offer a false sense of security; especially on those occasions when I should be producing my ice axe (and crampons). They most certainly won’t save you from an exposed slip on ice. I also think they detract from my own sense of un-assisted balance. And so often, I end up carrying them in my hand, especially if I break into a jog.

[@texanoutdoors6409]

Evan, Sleeves is only using a homemade walking stick to hike the AT this year. I have seen him use it for extra stability coming down steep inclines on the trail.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Kerry Young Thanks for that! I’ll have to ask Sleeves about his experience...

[@KuntryRD]

I never used poles when I was a sprout, but have been for a while now. I like that they keep down the swelling in my hands; I guess it is the movement of the hands and arms. Disadvantage for me is on rock scrambles. On really nice trails, I leave mine in the car. They have saved me a few times from what could have been bad falls. But you certainly can find a sturdy stick if needed.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

All good points. Thanks for taking the time to comment. Reading all the comments, I'm really getting a feel for what everyone thinks about the issue.

[@edvarnadoe4308]

I've been using a bamboo cane pole I cut from a stand of bamboo next to my house in South Georgia. It's been on many hiking and backpacking trips since 1974. It's strong and lightweight. I got the idea from Colin Fletcher's book The Complete Walker. One pole versus two, and it's inexpensive. It meets a lot of your reasons for trekking poles. Walk well, my brother!

[@jimmy4766]

Hey Evan , I love your videos and hope to meet you out on the trail next year and if I do my you tube channel next year maybe I will catch you for an interview. My wife thru hiked in 2014 (I BELIEVE). I love the area you hiked in around Big Creek and mt sterling and we camped at the horse camp at Big Creek oct 28 this year. Go luck in your hike and may God bless each step you take,

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for watching! I'm already subbed to your channel and I like your interview videos!

[@TubaSolotheHiker]

I certainly respect you for looking at every aspect of your system. This one worries me a bit. As far as going up, I feel like I rarely use my trekking poles outside of using them for balance. Going down I always use them, balance and to reduce wear and tear on the body. Hmmm...later in the video you bring up all sorts of things I've never really thought of. I know for me, when I started hiking I didn't use trekking poles, when I got them it took me a bit to get used to them, and now I can't imagine not using them. Great tip at the end with the light.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks Tuba, appreciate your watching and commenting, as always. Your thoughts are noted!

[@LastDays2024]

After losing my hiking pole today, i think i will not get new one to replace them.. Too much to look after with me and my dog, and the extra weight. i was sad today after losing my pole, but after watching you hike without them i think i just go without them. Thanks for this video

[@kevshelley]

Love the sour cream cap idea to protect your tarp. Was thinking what if you cut a blue racquetball in half and used the two pieces for the ends of sticks. Probably weighs the same and might sit on there more securely. Also love your objectivity not the whole trekking pole idea. I say go without - be a biped. You can always send for them later on. Thanks always for the great videos.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the encouragement -- much appreciated. Thanks for the idea too. Another thing I'm going to try is the metal lid from a small paint container. Don't know the weight of that though . . . There is really no sliding issue, due to the pressure exerted from the tarp pressing down . . .

[@hikehunter9572]

Great vid. I had a debate with a young hiker one time, about 1 pole vs. 2 poles. I do not recall any talk of poles /no poles. I look at poles this way.... One is none. Just like fire starting. I like have the poles. If I got to climb I strap them to the pack, if needed. Waiting on Scott's video. Thanks Evan.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Debating with other hikers about trekking poles -- imagine that! Appreciate your commen, thanks. Scott's video should be good . .

[@viewsandreviews180]

Evan, great video and thank you for the tip on this video. I’m not sure of your age but I can remember times in the late 1970’s when I didn’t use any walking aid on the trail (nothing called a trekking pole then). Then I started finding relatively straight sticks to carve while on the trail and I used those while walking but I didn’t think of them as an aid, they were pictorial journals of the hike by the end of the journey. Currently, I started backpacking again three years ago and I’m not using trekking poles (my eldest son does). I may consider using trekking poles if I start using a tarpaulin setup (thanks to one of your videos) instead of my hammock setup but only due to their use as a prop for certain tarpaulin configurations but I may use fallen limbs where I camp for the night (there’s many more hikers these days and deadwood is a little hard to find within one hundred yards of a campsite.) The conclusion of this ramble is I’m 58 years old and don’t usually need an aid for balance even today.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Views and Reviews Views and Reviews That’s all great to know, thanks. With comments like this one there’s lots of good information here about trekking poles. My age is 54.

[@viewsandreviews180]

Evan's Backpacking Videos Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your adventures. I hope you have fun on your AT hike and maybe set a FKT for the trail.

[@stanthemanhikes2965]

I'll check Trent out thanks for the heads up. I enjoyed your discussion on trekking poles. I love using them for myself and encourage others to do the same. They help me so much on the uphills and downs. For me the benefits far outweigh any negatives. At age 60 I'm like you and am concerned about balance and rolling ankles. I find myself stumbling quite a bit after the 15 mile mark and so need to pay more careful attention to my steps and balance at that point. I will have to say that when the trail gets very rocky say as in Pennsylvania that I find it easier navigating the rocks without the poles. Not exactly sure why but just suits me better in those instances. Enjoyed your vlog and will subscribe.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for subbing and for the informative comment. I appreciate that so many people have shared their trekking-pole experiences here . . .

[@ChrisGoesOutdoors]

Near the end of the trail I snapped one of my poles in a freak arguable comedic incident. I actually felt much more mobile and agile using just the one the rest of the trail. Feel like you can still use the one effectively but having the extra hand to easily maneuver around objects worked pretty well for me. I bent the other coming down Katahdin. Not having any felt like trying to learn to walk again haha.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Hey Chris, glad to see you here! My video got too long but originally I had a list of KZbinrs who hike with zero or one trekking pole. That got cut. One is definitely an option. John Z is a hiker a respect and I'm pretty certain he uses just one pole. And Neemor too.

[@stevenmpeter]

Evan you may eventually get tired of being tired of looking for proper sticks for your tarp at the end of long days. Like you said you can always add them back further down the trail. Your exhaustive and singular focus analysis is very helpful. Looking forward to your hike!

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks very much for watching and commenting! I also can easily tie my tarp off to a tree but I do prefer setting up with poles, at least on the inside to give me more room . .

[@scottfarrar3441]

Trekking Poles - I'm all in! They save my knees on the down hills and I use them as leverage on the up hills (which saves my legs). They also help me with keeping my balance (as I always have 2 points of contact with the ground...1 foot and 1 pole - opposite of each other). They are also beneficial going thru creek crossings and the Rocks...yes, the Rocks of PA - it helps with having another point of contact as you go rock-hopping for 300+ miles. I'm 53+...so anything I can do to ease the pressure on my knees is a piece of hiking equipment that I want to use...especially on a 5-6 month/2200 mile hike. Also, when you get in a rhythm with them then you can make some serious mileage...there will be days when you need to do that...like getting to a Post Office or Store or "whatever" before they close (for the weekend!). You could always take them with you, place them on your pack and after you get to Damascus send them home if you really don't need them anymore. I use mine all of the time...except when I went down Dragon's Tooth (as part of the Triple Crown in VA...when you get to McAffee Knob). BTW: I do not use the straps...for the fear of injury during a fall (as you mention in your video).

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Great comment, thanks! I'm 53 too so I appreciate your perspective. All duly noted!

[@SoutheastBackpacker]

Nice - I enjoyed the ‘no poles’ experiment. And you’ll have plenty of time on the AT to see if it sticks.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Yes! Thanks for checking in and commenting, appreciate it . .

[@renaissancemarinetv3536]

i started out with one hiking stick and quickly found a stick for the other hand. i think the plusses far outnumber the negatives.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the comment, noted!!

[@AmandaBess]

Love this video! I tend to want to go against the grain and try new things.. or find a different way to accomplish the same thing. I think it's awesome that you're thinking outside the box. All your reasons are valid. For me, once I properly learned how to use trekking poles, I don't think I'll ever go without them. Nice idea for the Carmax red lenses. Brilliant!

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the comment, really appreciate it! I'm enjoying your videos. Someone else gave me that Carmax idea -- it worked great!

[@wisenber]

My poles are usually in my pack. They get used when it's icy or slick, I'm tired or for stream crossing. I also go with the least amount of shoe possible. Roche always uses his poles, but then he likes his external frame packs too.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the comment!

[@bigzach322]

In the 8 years since I bought poles it is amazing how many more hikers I've encountered in NC with them compared to the 2000s. They have saved me from serious injury a few times in the Cascades and Rockies where the loose pebbles or snow gave way and I jammed them like an ice axe to prevent sliding hundreds of feet. Of course they've also saved me in the Appalachians on extreme slopes while bushwhacking to waterfalls. And they're always great for downhill trails when it is wet, and when you have to creekwhack to a waterfall. I think the best way to avoid injury while using poles downhill is to cut off the straps. That way you can use the pole as a sliding brace and let go when needed. I've had them cut off for a while now and don't regret it. I also stumble later in my hikes, but I think that is due to dehydration and exhaustion which both affect balance. If I don't properly eat/drink during my hike, which happens a lot, my footing is worse in the last couple of hours. I'm bad about fueling on day hikes. On my last few I drank

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the great response. There has been a great deal of useful information in these comments. In my research for this video, I looked at abstracts or summaries of the studies, and was set to go through these, but the video got too long. In a nutshell, most of the studies have been conducted on treadmills and are inconclusive. And since it's very easy to cherry-pick among the studies to support one's particular point of view, it was probably better for me just to omit them from the video. Among the anecdotal accounts (like these comments), there are people who say that poles build up their upper body on long hikes, and others who see no effect. I'm not sure exactly how this would play into caloric burn, but there's a lot of advice on the internet to the effect of "you can get a better workout and burn more calories if you use trekking poles." Who knows. As for stumbling, I think it's probably related more to exhaustion than anything else, as you say. If you start looking into the functions of the muscles in the leg, they sort of all have to be working in unison to support balance. I think it's well accepted that problems with certain leg muscles will lead to stumbling--as in, stumbling can be a symptom of particular muscle problems. So I'm sure stumbling often means exhaustion in particular muscles. I'm just thinking out loud of course; I don't mean to imply you don't know all this already!

[@bigzach322]

Yeah treadmills don't seem like the best replicate of hiking conditions lol. I agree with your points, it is unlikely using poles will significantly work out your arms. It is mainly transferring impact, which will work out stabilizer muscles over mover muscles. But as you said it's anecdotal.

[@markgang1861]

I was going over your idea of using the sour cream lids for tarp protection and thought of another option. Cut a smart water bottle or Gatorade in half and then place the open end over the end of stick you procure from forest leaving the rounded end of the bottle to provide protection for tarp. Also thought that bringing two small tacks or short nail to secure the sour cream tops to found stick if driven through center of tops into stick in case you find yourself in a high wind position. Neither method would reduce your weight but may prevent damage to tarp. Plus having half smart water bottle could be used as a scoop for water.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Mark Gang Thanks for those ideas, appreciate it! I might give some of them a try.

[@nvisker]

I never used trekking poles until I bought a non-freestanding tent. Even then I just attached them to my pack on the first few trips. I've used them for hiking the last few trips and have mixed feelings. I really miss having my hands free, but I feel like I can hike a little faster with them. I don't think you're crazy for passing on them. I just wonder if you'll feel like finding the perfect sticks when you pull into camp at the end of a long day and you want to set up your tarp. Or if it's raining. Good luck! I'll be following your progress!

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Great comment, thanks! The input is helpful. With my tarp, I'm not dependent on sticks (I can tie off to a tree even more easily) but sticks/poles are useful if I want to set up in an area without trees, or if I want to elevate the inside of the tarp to give me more room to sit up.

[@AhonuiOutdoors]

I have decided to ditch my trekking poles for my upcoming pct thru hike in 2019. I’m right there with you on a lot of your points. Also I just find them cumbersome and in natural/awkward to use. 99.8 percent of the time I never take them off of my pack while hiking no matter the terrain. I do have a duplex shelter so I ordered the tent poles that zpacks offers to replace the trekking poles. I think it will all work out just fine. Hope all worked out for you as well!!

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Ahonui Outdoors Yes, it worked great for me. By Maine, I think probably 40% of the hikers had ditched their trekking poles. However, toward the end I DID sometimes use a stick for uphills or steep downhills. They were easy to find, easy break to the correct size, and were as strong and as light as trekking poles.

[@AhonuiOutdoors]

Awesome that is very good to know. Thank you for the info. Congratulations on your at hike and thanks for the videos! My wife is trying to convince me to document my thru hike on KZbin. Keep going back and forth with the idea

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Good luck on the thru-hike!

[@AhonuiOutdoors]

Thank you sir!

[@Reese842]

Poles have saved me so many times and currently used with my tent.

[@jamesmoorhouse5265]

OK! So my experience with poles. When I started serious hiking a few years ago I bought sticks and only used them if I new my destination was rough; mostly thinking of the balance issue. On one particularly hilly trail I forgot them one trip, then brought them a couple weeks later to retry that section. There was such a major difference in speed and how I felt I started using them all the time. Now that I'm paying attention I notice things like; when I stop using them in the middle of the hike I notice ackes and pains I hadn't noticed before. My hips may be getting tired and I don't even realize I'm compensating with the sticks. All of which is to say, for me and the kinds of hikes I can do I'll continue using poles. But there are two interesting caveats I'd apply to your situation. I'm not preparing for a thru hike so I'm not in as good a shape as you. I think that matters when considering whether the poles compensation is worth its weight and trouble. (I don't use the hand straps. I can envision some really bad falls caused by my hands being hampered.) And I think you're right about being intentional about the physical act of walking. I suspect being in really good shape and walking intentionally will compensate for the poles. I'm hoping you'll decide not to take them and give us all the benefit of your experience.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for all the good information. I'll factor in your personal experience. At this point, I'm not going to take them at the beginning. Maybe I'll add them later. I'm not sure how much about my technique I'll talk about in the videos, so if you're still watching then and have specific questions that I'm not covering, please ask me to include it. Thanks!

[@Hiker33]

Thanks for spawning this debate over poles. I've been backpacking for 41 years, and for most of those years I used a single wooden walking stick. I bought poles a couple of years ago because everyone else seemed to like them, and I also got a new tent that needs trekking poles for support. I think your theory about not paying as much attention to foot placement while using poles has merit. In the last two years I've taken two bad falls. One resulted in a sprained ankle. I've never been the most coordinated or athletic guy, and I think the poles directly contributed to both falls. And I'm still not used to not having one hand free while hiking.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks very much for your comment. These personal anecdotes like yours and others are very important, I think.

[@boogieboo9467]

I have never hiked a distance as far as the AT but I live directly on it and hike daily when I can. I have never been fond of the trekking poles and usually only cut a hiking stick once I get into the woods. With that said, I find that one hand gets weak and I have to keep treating it off. I usually do steep grades and off trail hikes while I'm ginseng hunting and one stick is all I need to pull myself up the mountain. By the way, thanks for the videos

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the comment, appreciate it!

[@paulwilson3274]

Thank you so much for sharing brother! I am so glade there is someone else that sees the advantage of not having hiking poles. I see it as ‘more opportunities’ to touch and feel the environment around me; to be closer to nature.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

That's another great point, thanks . . . .

[@jhonyermo]

And Ray Jardine absolutely is not a trekking pole guy.

[@mtadams2009]

The owner of Zpacks has hiked thousands of miles with sandals and I have seen my share from time to time. For me hiking poles are mostly used for hiking down the brutal White Mountain Trails and Vermont. I also need them for my tent. I am UL but have no desire at all to give them up. I am older and I do balancing drills I learned in PT. These mostly involve standing on one leg and doing some task. If I was hiking something like the PCT I am sure I could hike without poles, it’s much more gentle of a trail. Take care

[@rogerlamb536]

That is awesome you have got your weight down so much for the big hike but make sure you take enough gear to stay safe because the first part of that hike during the time frame you will be starting is tough due to weather change's.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks Roger, appreciate the comment -- noted!

[@smlworld3014]

Another good video. Looks like a beautiful piece of the world right there!

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Yes, the Big South Fork is a wonderful place to hike!

[@AmyB.]

Hi Even! So, I understand your thoughts on hiking poles. I had them too. There's this really steep hill that I've hiked up a few times. I mean REALLY steep! I'd get the feeling i was going to fall backwards and roll down the hill! Then coming down, i'd have to pay close attention to my feet. Not to stumble down the hill. So, i happened to be at rei with a friend, looking at trekking poles. If she wouldn't have nudged me to get them, i probably wouldn't have. Well i tried the hill again with my new poles. Wow, such a difference! So much easier going up, and down. I could actually enjoy it. Hear the birds, smell the trees! No more heart beats in my ears from my fear of falling. And the veiw, i could enjoy it all the way down. Not just on the top of the hill, because i didn't have to watch my feet as much! Also it was easier on my knees. Definitely could feel the difference. So Evan I think you'll be happier to have some. Also a bit safer. You know not rolling off any mountains.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Amy B Thanks for that! I am definitely in the minority on trekking poles. On very steep hills, I sometimes grab onto trees going up or down. Also, I sometimes find a stick on the ground and use that as a pole. My ideas are still in the experimental stage, so stay tuned!

[@keithrogers5832]

I hike the NCT mostly and Everytime I go, I ask myself poles or no poles, it's 50/50. I find that then I have creeks and more unstable ground I bring them and attach them to my pack. I don't need them for a tent, you make alot of good points. I think I've had this same conversation with myself a time or two.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

That's great input, thanks much for commenting!

[@surfandstreamfisher5749]

Another good video, thanks Evan. I think that you might be over thinking the trekking pole subject. With you're experience I would assume that you know when to rely on them and when not too. JMHO

[@jeffs6229]

Evan, I'm very excited for your thru hike next year, actually I'm very jealous too! I'm concerned about the sans trekking pole position though. I understand what you are saying about keeping present while you hike and they do add weight BUT I know the trekking poles help my knees and my feet from excessive pounding. They can also prevent serious falls that could potentially take you off trail. Just worried about your hike and you staying safe. You are my favorite backpacking channel by far and I have several that I follow (including sintax77). Loving the new videos, just wanted to throw my 2 cents at ya.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Great, thanks for commenting! Sintax is great--I think he's got a sort of natural camera presence. Plus he makes some epic trips. I'm glad I did this video (rather than keeping my contrarian thoughts to myself) because I've gotten some great feedback like yours. So thanks, and know that your comment is duly noted!

[@anonpers0n]

When I thru hiked the AT in 2016 I started with a pair of poles but I broke one and lost the other and never replaced them... I used sticks for the downhills and nothing for the climbs and that was perfect.

[@anonpers0n]

BTW I'm Chopsticks (trailname) and I'm attempting to follow the ect from big cypress FL to where the long trail devurges from the AT and then up it to canada. I've thru hiked the AT half of the palmetto trail and paddled the Mississippi River and I'm legally blind. (About 9% of normal sight). Anyone can do it with nearly any gear, the real challenge is the mental part.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Definitely my thinking at the moment too. Thanks for weighing in!

[@russellinthebush2897]

I can take or leave trekking poles. I use a tarp too and having a pole or two is handy when a tree or two aren't available. You can use your umbrella for the short stake too (though I didn't see you carrying it this video). I thru-hiked the Colorado Trail this year and debated whether to bring my poles or not or just one. I took both, carried them most of the time the first 100 miles, then strapped one to my pack and used the other for the last 400 miles. I worry about losing agility by using poles. What will I lose with them being a crutch? I stumble frequently but rarely ever fall. I think people who say the poles saved them are probably exaggerating. Who knows what would have happened without poles. That being said, the poles are nice walking on slick mud. I think people that say the poles save their knees would be better off working on their walking technique, learning to walk in ways that take the stress off their knees, you know, shorter steps, bending the knees more, landing on the ball of the foot. You're doing that wearing sandals. Thanks for the videos.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Great comment, thanks. Yes, I think the sandals keep me more balanced but I left that specific point out of the video so as not to muddy the trekking pole issue. As for knees, those are great points. I'm doing the "Peterson stepup" and other exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the knee. Plus walking/running downhill. Your own personal experience is also instructive, so thanks again . . .

[@gregr501]

Great video! I’ve used hiking poles since I started backpacking but I’m sure it’s because my pack weighed so much in the beginning. Now that I’ve got my typical trip pack weight @ 14-17 lbs I find I don’t require them as much. In November I did a 30 mile hike in Arkansas (Eagle Rock Loop) where I only used my poles once for a creek crossing. I’ve since bought a ZPacks hiking staff, it weighs the same as my 2 LT4’s so same same there. I have a trip in 2 weeks and I’m planing on putting the staff to use then. Cool red light hack! P.S. I miss the sketches from your earlier videos, I understand they are time consuming on the trail. I would pause the video and study them, it was so fascinating to me. Probably because I failed art class as a kid, sad right, a kid that can’t even draw a stick man...ugh! Really looking forward to your AT hike, take care and Godspeed!

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Greg Rinehart Thanks for the nice comment and your feedback-really appreciate it. I agree that pack weight is an important factor. Mine has been falling too, which might be why I started questioning trekking poles in the first place.

[@mlctallahassee]

Hey man, your videos ROCK! I'm a master stumbler and my poles have saved my live so many times I don't know if I could do without them. Sees like my feet try to poll vault with sticks all the time and the poles save me. I also like the forward thrust that i get using them. I think my calves benefit from that aspect. Anyway, HYOH, I guess. I'm really looking forward to you thru hike and other videos.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Michael Comins Thanks for your comment, appreciate it!

[@potatothorn]

very interesting.. like you said you can grab sticks when necessary.. one thing i dont hear you mention, maybe trekking poles dont take much weight off your knees ? supposedly a hiking stick can take up to 30% of the weight off of your legs/ knees which should compensate for the extra effort. we have grown very attached to our hiking sticks, not as nice as trekking poles but they work, huge help going up hill.. will be interesting to see if you can find good sticks for your tarp the whole way i think you will be fine... we seem to see about 50-50 maybe more than half using trekking poles or sticks in the Sierras where there are tons of thru hikers, whatever works..// nice scenes, good to see Scott out there too

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Yes, Scott is always tons of fun! The AT is mostly wooded so I don't think I'll have trouble finding sticks when I need them, as long as I'm not around established campsites where all the sticks are used for firewood. I found a nice hand saw that weights 1.5 ounces, so there's that too. Haven't tried it yet as it's still on the way, but I have another that weights 5 ounces and it works great. Thanks for the comment - -as always!

[@larryguy8606]

Another thoughtful and well made video. I think there is a weight point that would decide it for me. Maybe if your pack weight is 10-12 pounds and under no poles. Anything over that and poles would be must. If I was in your situation, what I would do is cut an oak sapling to the height you need for your shelter, and you are in business. Not very heavy, and you will get used to walking with it. Lots of other things you can use a walking staff for.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Pack weight is definitely a key factor. I sort of glossed over that in the video. Good idea with the oak sapling, I'll consider it . . .

[@crixan]

i agree with most of what is claimed for not using trekking poles here in the comments. i do have some but almost never use them. they give me a false sense of security and i begin to neglect where to put my feet. i mostly see folks using poles in a terrain where any form of help for your walk should not be necessary at all. and when it gets really rough poles become a hindrance as could be seen in your video too. when it becomes difficult and you need to place your next step very carefully, the poles are not used any more. its way too complicated to coordinate 4 points of contact to the ground. it's easier to go down on all four, that's exactly what i do. and i don't hesitate and need to think about how to use and where to put the poles. i guess poles are appreciated so much because its not common to walk long distances nowadays. sure, they take the pressure from your joints, with all the heavy weight on your back. but i'd rather train joints and tendons before i go on a hard long hike. walking a flat and easy strech will instantly get you distracted from putting your feet consciously. the same thing happens when poles are used and i don't like that. i would appreciate one long stick which you may hold with both hands for very difficult situations. this would well quicken things up. but with my 67 years i'm in no hurry anymore. more than 20 miles a day? that' not a distance i would go for.

[@BeautifulTripsandPlaces]

Like your view on using trekking poles! I think its sensible, especially since yes, trekking poles are a modern invention and yes, muscles will develop to help, and yes, in case necessary one can pick up a stick or two as well. Personally i want to try hiking in sandals, just maybe not in cold weather i guess... Also i rather ditch the trekking poles but might bring just one if i would use a tarp or tarptent and then strapped onto my backpack, if there is not a lot of woodlands around the hiking trail. But honestly i prefer to not bring trekking poles.. Generally i feel they are a burden to me, just another extra piece of equipment to carry around.

[@johnbutler2231]

You are doing the hike, do it safely and have fun. if you are safer with trekking poles then use them, yes you can use them as a selfie stick with attachments, however, are they worth weight?

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the comment. Appreciate it!

[@SalineScott]

I thought you did great without the trekking poles. Love the way you put this together. You had that times out great when I was getting rid of my poles and said it would be easier without them. I’ll check out Trent’s channel

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

I'll think you'll like Trent's channel. It was a great trip!

[@JaxxDrinkwater]

Looks like you guys had a great trip. I think you and I have had the conversation before but I hate trekking, that's just me. A genius idea with the lip balm hack. "Roched" Now I'm gonna do it with my Fenix!

[@couch2trailyoutubechannel281]

Evan "roched " me too. Or, my wife. Told her about his sandals and now she's getting a pair for Christmas lol.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Yes, great trip! You were on my list of KZbinrs-without-poles but I cut that part for length. Someone else sent me that lip balm hack over Instagram. A great idea!

[@Woodenarrows]

Ha, I just ordered a replacement set of Leki poles, foldable ones so I can stow them when needed. I feel I need the poles, especially for hilly terrain. Balance? I practice my balance in the shower, every day. I make it a point to stand on one foot then the other, for a period of time.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Woodenarrows Foldable-makes a lot of sense. Thanks for commenting.

[@mustang774]

Well Evan, this was a very interesting video. Years ago the thought of using trekking poles was just foolish to me. It looked weird and I couldn't see me wanting to even try them. A few years ago after watching many videos where people were using them and telling the advantages of them, I bought some. I can't grip the pole with my left hand as I only have 1 finger and a thumb on that hand. I use just one trekking pole. All the advantages you spoke of are the same using the one pole. I usually carry the 2nd pole attached to my backpack to use with my hammock fly or share it with my son or daughter if they are with me. Using just one pole sot of takes away most of the disadvantages of using two poles. If I am filming, I place the pole in my left hand just to hold the pole. It gives me no support on that side. Now my right hand is free to do anything. I think maybe you should try your next hike with one pole and see how that works out for you......Take care, Bluefin.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks Bluefin, appreciate it! I'll keep all that in mind. I've used one pole before by storing the other pole and I feel a little off balance, but I can see how it would work well just to possibly catch yourself going downhill . . .

[@rialobran]

I'm like you, undecided on the pro's and cons of them. I generally carry just one which I've modified to use as a mono-pod (rather than tripod) it rarely get's used as designed, but on occasion has been useful. Not sure about the pole being such a new invention either, pilgrims are often depicted carrying a staff for all the reasons you listed (except maybe the selfie.) Excuse my ignorance of the AT, but are sticks going to be available the entire length too? To summarise, I'm no help at all :)

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Funny comment. With a trekking pole, I can attach my camera with an ultrapod and stick the sharp end in the ground. That's probably what you do. I'll have to make do attached my camera to a branch for shots like that -- I mean, without trekking poles. On this trip, instead of a trekking pole and StickPic, I attached my ultrapod-with-camera to the end of my umbrella. Now I have a dual-use for my umbrella (or triple use, as I use it with the tarp). As for sticks, they're hard to find around established campsites due to being used as firewood. I'm not too worried about lack of sticks. Plus, all I really need is a tree to set up the tarp.

[@ThruHikingwithScars]

With your low base weight and level of fitness, I think no poles is an option. That said, given your statement that you don’t want to rely on them and giving them up will increase your need to concentrate on each step, you may give some thought to whether the poles are liberating because they broaden your experience beyond staring at your feet for 2,200 miles. BTW, still really enjoy when you pull bushcrafting and (thru) hiking together...great tarp setup. Cheers, Scars.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for that, Scars, really appreciate it! I've thought about the staring-at-my-feet issue. Normally I scan ahead for rocks and roots and if the section ahead looks good, I relax. If not, I stop walking to take in what's around me. Definitely wouldn't want to miss out on that!

[@JeffMeadowsOutdoors]

I stumble a lot too. So I have been experimenting with 2,1 or 0 trekking poles. I am finding I catch myself pretty good with or without poles. I am bad about leaning on them uphill.

[@baskets8429]

Didn’t see a lot of tarps on AT mostly because of the amount of ticks that are around, maybe invest in some very light netting to keep mosquitoes and all the bugs out.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for that. I dealt with hundreds of ticks last year on the Sheltowee Trace with this same set up; on the other hand, I think they rarely carry Lyme disease. If it turns out that the bugs get to be too much, there's a tent I've got my eye on, and I'll swap the tarp out. . .

[@baskets8429]

Evan's Backpacking Videos ahh good that you’ve got a backup plan, happy hiking!

[@Idahomountainwerks]

I know some trail runners that hold their poles in the middle and have no straps. I started using my trekking poles that way and I really like it. I have the poles when I need them and they help me with my stride when I don't.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

That's a good idea, thanks! Thanks for watching and commenting too . .

[@UnlikelyHiker]

I feel trekking poles are a bother and get in the way. That being said I do carry them since my Mountainsmith tarp tent uses them to pitch. Seems silly. But it’s still larger and lighter than my LLBean FS UL1. I’m following your AT hike and I find your information well presented and entertaining. Keep up the great work!!

[@jeffreydonaldson7003]

People think auto safety belts are dangerous. But they save more lives. Tell your chiropractor why you don't use trekking poles. Positives out weigh the negatives. Have you check the price of back injuries, knee replacement. You excuses are lame. People do get off balance. They aren't always on balance. Dehydration will get them off balance. Yes, I believe you are being an idiot.

[@TheChuckoluck]

You probably have a good sense of your center of gravity and don't lose balance easily. I use the poles mostly to keep my balance, like an old person uses a walking stick. I would stumble a lot without them. They make a huge difference in the quality of my hike.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

James Bakker Makes sense, thanks for the comment.

[@NathansFerroceriumrods1]

Good talk about trekking poles. It's kind of like wearing a weight lifting belt, you think it's going to keep it from hurting your back but sometimes, if it's not used properly, you hurt yourself. I like your music.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for your input, I appreciate it!

[@hmarkison]

I've been hiking the flats and mild ups without poles but man, I love them on the downhills. While I've tripped over them once or twice, they've saved my butt a bunch. I have gone to pretty light poles (BD Carbon Distance FLZs). You're just more badass than me...lol.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Hawk on the Appalachian Trail Thanks for the comment! My no-trekking-pole idea will remain in the experimental stages until I am a few weeks until a few weeks into my thru-hike. I want to see how it goes.

[@hmarkison]

I'd bet that if you go back to them it will be for the downhills. Hope to see you out there.

[@howdydoughty7634]

Evan I just started using trekking poles as my sister Inlaw got me some for my anniversary. I first used them over thanksgiving climbing short off mountain. I didn't mind them I did notice their help on declines. Personally I don't think they are necessary however after a life of skateboarding and playing ice hockey I think I will keep using them to help give my knees more longevity for future hikes:) hike your own hike brother and keep the great videos coming. Also I love your DIY ideas! I Was wondering if you considered using that cabinet cloth (the plastic rubber stuff) to put over a branch to protect your tarp?

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the cabinet cloth idea. Next I'm going to try the metal lid from a small paint can. The plastic worked ok though. The tarp is pretty tough. Thanks for commenting!

[@Casual_BackPacking]

I'm a new hiker , I mainly just day hike , and I'm almost done with all the easy popular trails around me , but I wonder , if my pack is light enough, I wouldn't need poles

[@WolfPacks]

Interesting, I can see why someone would be inclined to go poleless. However, I would not want to be on the trail without them. I've slipped over wet rocks and/or roots and caught myself with the poles enough to know why I carry mine. One good fall in the backcountry could be disastrous. I also I find I don't get as tired when I use them. They do increase stability enough that I find I'm faster and think less about footing, which makes the whole experience more enjoyable to me. Also, I'm always using mine to ensure no snakes are waiting on the other side of downed trees, rocks, or in tall grass.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Great comment, thanks for that input, which is noted. You've summed up the pros very succinctly, which I appreciate.

[@kendog53]

I have noticed that if you hike without hiking poles, you can control your speed with your arm movement much better. Go faster move your arms faster and your feet will follow. I think that maybe in the right terrain, a person will hike much faster with more rythm without poles.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

I think you're right about that. I did a video recently of a 20-mile hike ("1,500 miles" was the title) in which I wasn't using poles. I think that's when I first noticed that I seemed to be going faster than usual, and I ended up hiking 3 miles per hour, which is fast for me. And I was very aware that I was swinging my arms.

[@douglasstevenson4553]

I prefer a hiking staff. Wood or aluminum, but one staff is a comfort to have.

[@joesugarman1355]

I think the fact that you're going to wear minimalist sandals to hike the AT is unconventional enough! As someone who sometimes uses a tarp, I know after an exhausting day of backpacking, it's a pain to hunt around for the right sized sticks to set up my tarp--particularly at night or in an area where there isn't much wood. But my trekking poles are always there and always the right size. Just one less thing my fatigued mind and body have to worry about when I get to camp. Besides, I don't really like sour cream. Nice video, Evan.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

True about the sticks and being tired. I can always set up with a tree, which is easier, but can also restrict my ability to find the perfect place on the ground . . . You don't like sour cream, wow!! I'm also going to try out the metal lid from a small paint can . . .

[@wjennin1]

I think if you can be mindful about your balance without trekking poles you can be mindful about your balance with them. Obviously there are certain background schema related to walking with and without poles established in our brains, but I think we are capable of retraining our minds to walk more effectively. The key for me is repetition when my body is not stressed and then gradually trying new techniques out under more stress. Everything definitely goes downhill when we're tired.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks for the comment. Really appreciate it. Definitely true that everything goes downhill when we're tired. There are so many small stabilizer muscles in your legs that when those are fatigued, it's hard not to fall . . .

[@WayOffTheTrail]

I bought some poles once but after using them one time sent them back. Absolutely hated it. Guess I'm old school. lol

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

I think I'm partially old school too. I used to be ALL old school, but I evolved when I took up backpacking again in a serious way some years ago. It's so hard getting good information about gear with all the noise produced by magazines, gear company advertising, outfitters, backpacking forums, Facebook and KZbin. Must be hell for a new backpacker!

[@WayOffTheTrail]

Evan's Backpacking Videos Yeah I've evolved some too with lighter weight stuff but haven't grown poles on my arms yet. Lol. If you stick it out without them we should start a club!

[@AhonuiOutdoors]

Same exact thing with me lol.

[@jhonyermo]

Ray Jardine did not like the things. He never used them

[@TheScoutLife75]

Subscriber 41 for Trent's channel. He's going to be huge on KZbin if he keeps it up. I tend to only use my trekking poles during the winter when the trials are icy, or if I'm going on a long hike. Most day hikes and even over nighters I don't bring them.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Yes, Trent is enjoyable to watch. My whole family likes his videos. Ice and snow is definitely a huge consideration that I don't think I mentioned in the video. Thanks for the comment!

[@markstanton2362]

Have never used a tarp, but don't you feel a little too open or vulnerable to the elements and / or creatures of the woods?

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Mark Stanton Thanks for the comment. I like the feeling of being outdoors. When there’s no rain, I don’t use a tarp at all. I suppose some might feel vulnerable but I don’t.

[@robd.9481]

Imo, the biggest benefit to trekking poles is to ease the stress on my knees when on those long down hills.

[@lewisgodwin2012]

By not using a sleeping pad, you bumped your head on the ground and decided to not use trekking poles! Seriously, you are the zen master of experimental backpacking. You help us all by not only questioning conventional wisdom but also by putting it to the test. Your adaptability will serve you well on your thru-hike. I have boiled down my utilization of trekking poles to two main functions: (1) They take lots pressure and wear and tear off my 54 year old knees on moderate to steep downhills. (2) They allow my upper body to contribute to the work load on climbs. (There are other functions like stream crossing, but I kept to my primary uses.) Early Riser made the point last year that he lost a lot of muscle/strength in his upper body during his thru-hike. I took that piece of information and have made it point to use my trekking poles on climbs as much as possible to keep my legs fresh. I did a section of the AT in north Georgia recently using this technique and I was less fatigued than he was at the end of the day. So I am going in the opposite direction as you; I am utilizing my trekking poles more instead of ditching them. But you have made me think about stowing them on flats and having my hands free. As always...a superb video.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Great thoughtful comment. Thanks much. I don't think of myself as very "experimental," as most of my ideas have been stolen from others. Some are old ideas though. I hear you on the trekking poles. I'm 53. I have watched all of Early Riser's videos. Meanwhile, I've been thinking that if trekking poles "work" your upper body, why do so many thru-hikers lose muscle mass there? Yet someone on Facebook who I corresponded with says he gained muscle mass by using his poles. So . . .

[@lewisgodwin2012]

I see I made an error in my response. I meant to say I was hiking with a partner on the AT who is similar in age and condition and that I seemed less fatigued than him at the end of the day...not Early Riser. Early Riser would leave me in his dust! I've had to tell myself: "You can't do ER kind of miles. Trey's a beast and his legs are twice as long as yours." And to further clarify my current use of trekking poles going up grades, I shorten them slightly (a tip from Big Foot) and REALLY dig them in and pull with my arms. My mental image is that I am going into four-wheel-drive going up grades. If my legs are feeling fatigued, I pull even harder on my trekking poles. I do worry that I might be causing extra wear on the trail. In fact, I might ask some trail maintainers if this is an issue. I have been observing other hikers and they seem to be just using their trekking poles for balance going up hill until they have a big step and only then using it to push them up. I think I need to ask people to be sure. Sorry to go on and on about this, but this is something I've been experimenting with to improve my hiking experience. Geeking out on trekking poles.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

No, go one all you want! (Btw, I edited my response to you but I think our responses match. I would like to hear from Early Riser and others about whether they gained upper-body muscle mass by using poles on their thru-hikes.) In my notes for this video, I had a section about trekking poles tearing up the trail, because it definitely comes up online in discussions of trekking poles. But then I thought, that battle is lost. People aren't going to give up trekking poles because the combined use by everyone else is causing erosion on some trails. That's just my uninformed cynical opinion though.

[@oldgary57]

When you go up stairs do you find it easier when you use the hand rail? That is your answer to , do you need trekking poles.

[@jhonyermo]

Proves NOTHING

[@JohnnyontheTrail]

I do use Trekking poles. I even trail run with trekking poles. I feel like they help me climb the mountains better. They also provide breaking on the descent. I also use them often to move limbs off the trail. I want to think in my mind that i could fend off a snake, hog, or bear with them. They are usually my weapon. at least thats my thinking...

[@couch2trailyoutubechannel281]

With my sub, Trent just exceeded his goal by one =) Enjoyed the video. As you know I use a single staff (not a cane Scott!) which IMO is a happy medium. It was great to hike with you!

[@larryguy8606]

I didn't catch that in the video, but I was going to comment that is an option. If you have a tarp shelter or any thing else that uses one pole, it would work. Leaves one hand free too. I have a few oak and cedar staffs that I used before I got trekking poles.

[@couch2trailyoutubechannel281]

Mine's bamboo and really lightweight. it's too long for Evan's setup tho. I do like having one hand free while hiking for sure.

[@larryguy8606]

I re-watched the beginning and did see your staff the 2nd time around. That is long.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Thanks John. When I was putting together this video, I wished I would have interviewed you some about your staff. Oh well, maybe next time. It was a great trip!!

[@couch2trailyoutubechannel281]

Looking forward to next time!

[@kdavis4910]

I think trekking poles would be good for someone with known joint issues. Help transfer that weight off the body. But I also agree every step should involve conscious movement. I have a rare neuromuscular genetic disorder in which physical pressure or injury causes sometimes total limb paralysis, even from the most minut falls. Every step is conscious movement for me anyhow and so is constant balance practice, but joints are at major risk for me so trekking poles will be a necessity in my particular case no matter how careful i am anyway.

[@jonnyfly69]

thank you for the video, as for my self I walk with a cane, not by choice in 1990 I got hurt at work, and my dr.'s say it is ok for me to hike the a.t. in 2018 , so I will use trekking poles, but we each have our plan and adjust along the way, and I can swich to my cane if they are trouble some, after all if need be I can just use one like a cane, but that's just me lol

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Best of luck on the AT! Maybe we'll run into each other. Thanks for the comment.

[@roche4647]

On my last outing one of the guys did not carry trekking poles. Around the campfire it was much easier for him to hold a bottle of Jameson.

[@couch2trailyoutubechannel281]

Was he a "backpacker"? =)

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Hey, I think I know that guy!

[@boogieboo9467]

I live right outside the Great Smoky Mountain National Forest and have been thinking on and studying doing the AT for a while now. My question is, I don't have anyone I know that is capable of or would even want to hike something that far. Is there a place for people to meet up with others online or elsewhere that I could possibly find someone to maybe begin and possibly finish with? I am a single female, and although I'm capable of doing it by myself, I just really don't want to.. any ideas?

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

A few ideas: At Facebook, join the group(s) “Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers Class of 2019.” There might be a female-only group too. There’s also whiteblaze.net. And perhaps check out the new book by Jen Beck Seymour, “Chicas in the Appalachian Trail: Women-Specific Tips for Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail and Conversations with Badass Women Hikers.”

[@arthur4818]

just remember every legal campsite has a fire ring and there are hundreds of people using it every year so every piece of wood is is used for fire trying to find sticks is very hard, also i think trecking poles were used to help with heavy back pack weights now that pack weights have gone down i don't think they are needed as much

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

Good point, thanks very much. Pack weight is certainly an important consideration that I didn't address enough in the video. As for sticks, I don't usually camp at established sites and can set up with trees. However, for areas without trees, I'll definitely have a problem . .

[@Reese842]

I have gotten tangled once when falling out of the hundred times I've slipped, tripped, misjudged a trail obstacle. My thumbs take a beating, but I rest them on flat, easier terrain.

[@philipstewart1141]

Do you reach up from the bottom of the loops so as not to injure your thumbs in the event of a fall? There are several videos on the correct way to use the straps that are on your poles.

[@nathanaelkolb4024]

I use my father's cedar walking stick that he made over 50 years ago.

[@EvansBackpackingVideos]

A great choice, plus it has sentimental value! Thanks for commenting.