To trekking pole, or NOT to trekking pole? | Miranda in the Wild

[@PhilipTaramai]

I love trekking poles. I use one all the time and carry the second just in case I need it. For me, it reduces a lot of pain away from my knees while descending, both poles assist climbing on steep terrain. At 60, I thought my days on the trail are over, the biggest benefit, I can now enjoy the outdoors once again.

[@Clive-z3u]

Dude your 63 now😂 I'm 69 today and found got some cheap ones from the supermaccado yesterday as I'm about unstable, just for walking what a useful aid ❤

[@komicsreviewer8505]

Save Democracy!

[@CerealKiller187]

I met Miranda at Urich Cabin on the PCT last year when she was doing a little REI trail magic for thru-hikers. Such a sweetheart and such a delight to talk to!

[@ellerybice3787]

So, you’re famous now¿

[@nk6197]

Topic suggestion: Leave No Trace. It’s just really sad to see how many people don’t know about it or don’t follow it

[@rei]

Great suggestion! Thanks for watching. - Miranda

[@UTeewb]

The funny thing is I googled "backpacking leave no trace" and the first result was an REI page with a youtube video with the same actress. So I don't know why she said great suggestion lol.

[@lakorai2]

The trash caused by the overpriced backpacking meals doesn't help with cutting down on trash.

[@monkeymanwasd1239]

Or leave nature better than you found it 🤔😁

[@UntakenNick]

What's wrong with leaving a trace? That's beyond ridiculous.

[@MinekaC]

I used to trail run, and loved hiking. But then one run my knee decided "well, I’m done." And now hikes meant knee pain and swelling for days after. Even short three mile hikes were too much. I got trekking poles last year, and it is enough to take the pressure/weight off my knees that I can hike again! I will forever be thankful for trekking poles allowing me to get back out there.

[@andyhaochizhang]

Trail running seems to be especially knee-wreaking. I (mostly) road run none of the road runners I know have had long term life altering knee injuries. But I know several trail runners / ultra hikers who do. Probably has to do with the hugely increased work load placed on the joins from uneven terrain.

[@dejaychef1976]

I like that they keep my hands up which keeps them from getting swollen from swinging them back and forth. They also work for checking geocaching areas for snakes.

[@MartyPape78]

I recently started trail hiking and I’ve noticed my hands swelling a lot. I didn’t even think about poles helping with that.

[@angeljmadrid]

Miranda has so much personality and it's amazing. Some outdoor KZbinrs are so dryyyy. Miranda makes it FUN

[@tamie341]

Yeah def a gem! I wish I could sub to her channel without subbing to rei tho

[@goldiloks08]

@@tamie341 you can now! (But purely out of curiosity, why do you say that?)

[@tamie341]

@@goldiloks08 All of their other content is trash. Miranda is a gem tho

[@margaretedmonds786]

I am 58 with back and knee issues so i started using poles over 10 years ago and they have had a profound positive affect on my hiking posture and significant relief to my knees so I am an advocate for what ever technology keeps me moving forward in my adventures...as far as people passing judgment on those who use them has yet to be seen by me but i'm sure there are those who practice hyper self absorbed behaviors and to those I say.....go #$#@ yourselves and live your own life

[@williamkauffman8898]

Margaret Edmonds I am 57 and just started using them due to knee strain that was concerning me. I bring them when on aggressive steep hikes. Never wanted or desired to use them before my knees started giving me some issues. I was amazed at how trekking poles take the strain off the knees.

[@nedkelly2677]

@@williamkauffman8898 That's right.

[@Laura-gq7oc]

I use my poles every time I hike. I've had knee issues for years and buying goid trekking poles allows me to go hiking.

[@Matsulovesyou]

❤

[@jonsanford2515]

I always brought them on hikes with lots of elevation and left them home on short, or flat hikes. Then, last year a guy (not with our group) fell and busted himself up pretty bad while I was leading a group of cub scouts on a short hike. After administering some first aid, the guy was able to walk the 2 miles out with the help of a walking stick one of the scouts lent him. He probably couldn’t have walked that far without one. Now, I bring my trekking poles on every hike.

[@jeanhofvedvm7589]

Being the klutzy sort who can tip over just standing still, I love my trekking poles for all sorts of trails, even flattish ones. I made sure to practice with them in town A LOT before I went off into the woods, so that the movement was pretty natural; really glad I did!

[@janelleanderson6744]

I was so excited by the suggestion of practicing with the poles, that I pressed not-like instead of like--lol! But I fixed it :) That's a great suggestion--thanks J.H. DMV

[@rachelgreer3457]

I'll carry a single trekking pole on day hikes in Florida. It's the perfect spider stick & I'll use it to search for snakes in flooded portions of the trail. A trekking pole is also a wonderful tool when navigating muddy terrain.

[@dreimann]

Yeah, having at least one pole is very useful for avoiding snake bites!

[@lindafeiler1448]

Love my trekking poles that I was given this Christmas! I am almost 74 so I feel so much more confident using them!!

[@ARepublicIfYouCanKeepIt]

Actually, there's no question! I refer to trekking poles as "four wheel drive for humans." I love my titanium (ultra-lightweight), shock absorbing trekking poles that I purchased from REI years ago. I always use the included rubber tips on rocky terrain, as well as the included bales in leaves and snow. I lead hikes and offer my second set of trekking poles to any participant who'd like to try them out. I've never had a bad comment about them, even though this set are aluminum and not shock absorbing, although the rubber tips and bales are still all there!

[@nk6197]

My very energetic dog is my 4 wheel drive for humans. As long as your holding the leash your going down the trail whether you like it or not.

[@anotheryoutuber_]

portable handrails

[@tracygeorge6994]

You’re a delight.

[@ofeliamorales9861]

Isn’t she, though?! I don’t care at all about trekking poles. I pretty much just watched the video for her awesome vibe. 😂 she’s sunshine!

[@janelleanderson6744]

@@ofeliamorales9861 Yeah, seriously--Miranda's an uplifter. She's pretty wonderful.

[@sakusaurusrex4272]

Now I feel like REI needs to sell a "little goat human" hiking themed shirt.

[@ianrudd7442]

Hi Miranda, great video again. When I got into the outdoors many years ago I fell into the why would you ever use those things camp. However, as I got older, especially after getting arthritis in my hips I have seen the benefit. Over the years the science has won me over. The amount of stress you take off of your hips and knees is amazing. It also makes you more stable. For all that I was using them incorrectly for years. Since learning how to use them properly I have truly become a convert. I am even considering taking up Nordic Walking. However if I hear one more person say 'Where are your skies?' I may lose my sense of humour!!!!!

[@janelleanderson6744]

:) lol

[@mfcabrini]

I'm over 70, and poles really help me feel secure on rough parts of the trail. They absolutely save your knees on downhills. Fun, informative video. Thanks.

[@rei]

Thank you for watching, we are so glad you enjoyed the video!

[@Mis-AdventureCH]

Yes, Trekking poles are a very useful splinting component. Because you can vary the length of each of them they are particularly useful for legs. And...lots of people have them, so you're not carrying in components thta have only one use. Highly recommend that everyone take the opportunity to do a Wilderness First Responder class. NOLS or WMA both have a great curriculum.

[@backpacker3421]

+1 for sure. IMO, nobody should be getting very far from a trailhead without a good grounding in wilderness first aid.

[@robertmarino3341]

Agree with you about trekking poles and splinting as well as taking that course. I signed up for it a couple of weeks ago, but unfortunately all these courses are now cancelled - due to Covid-19.

[@robertmarino3341]

@@Mis-AdventureCH Thanks. I signed up for NOLS with REI - that was the one cancelled. Good to know WMA will be resuming classes. Will you be doing it with REI? When do you think they will resume in NJ?

[@timbabcock6018]

I've crossed paths with so many people out on hikes and I'm so scared for them. They are so under prepared and God help them if they did get hurt.

[@ClintHollingsworth]

I always enjoy Miranda's videos. Having hit 60 this year, I think it might be time for me go to Trekking poles.

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

No question about it. YES, trekking poles. I put them off to my peril for decades because I thought they were corny, but found myself almost always using a stick I'd find in the woods anyway. I had to eventually cave in and get myself a pair and I'll never go back. For crossing water, navigating through some technical stuff and for really extending your comfort level while walking, they are musts.

[@CharlotteSimply]

As a hiker with chronic knee and back pain trekking poles were a game-changer for me. They were all the difference between having pain 2-3 miles in versus getting 7-8 miles with little to no extra pain. They are what made hiking a truly accessible activity for me. I swear by my boot rubber tips on almost any terrain as the added stability and shift in weight distribution is like nothing else.

[@rei]

Trekking poles are a great way to make the outdoors more accessible! Happy trails ⛰️

[@Copernicus22]

Using a tracking pole is like someone constantly pushing you in the back to help you move forward. It increases your stability and speed. Even with one taking pole it allowed me to move much faster.

[@paulriccio5333]

Used them for the first time. I couldn't believe how much faster and efficient I was. Honestly, I used to mock people under my breath when I saw them with poles. A few rivers later, I gave them a shot. I feel like an insect.

[@russelljackman1413]

YES! "Be kind. Be respectful." A wonderful credo! Thank you, Miranda!

[@janelleanderson6744]

I liked hearing that too. Applies to so much more than hiking, camping.

[@margueriteleahy4585]

“Like a little goat human” hilarious.

[@TheHungryHiker]

I used to poo poo on using trekking poles. Then I went to thru-hike the PCT and a former PCT thru-hiker recommend I use trekking poles for my trip. I took her advice and now I can't hike or overnight backpack without them. Trekking poles for life!They are the bees knees and they save your knees. I highly recommend getting the rubber tips. Thanks Miranda for another awesome video!

[@PetitePunkNymph]

Your videos are funny, down to earth, and informative. Growing up in Bend and being a current resident, I meet meet quite a few “transplants“ who are new to the outdoors and I tell them to watch your show! Also these videos are literally keeping my spirits up as I grind through my final year of college (I don’t have time to go backpacking currently) As a WFR, I can verify that you can use trekking poles to splint a leg injury.

[@Lulu.G-61]

You are awesome and have very good advice. No judgment on the trails and don’t poke plants! Love it!

[@rei]

Thank you! Glad you liked it. - Miranda

[@davefs9441]

I use them in the southeast (GA) to help clear the way of wayward spiderwebs and when I go home to UT when hitting the mountains. Definitely worth having them as it makes it easier on my joints and assist crossing crazy terrain!

[@rei]

Great tip! I can confirm that trekking poles are much better at clearing spider webs than wildly waving your arms or making your friend walk first. - Miranda

[@backpacker3421]

@@rei I don't know, making your friend walk first works pretty well.... though my approach has always been to sleep in, have a first and second cup of coffee and hit the trail a good 30 minutes after most other people. But that's not really about spiders. It's about sleep and coffee.

[@WildlandExplorer]

1000 trekking pole videos later and someone finally showed the right way to not break your thumb/wrist in a few seconds. Take your thumbs up.

[@janetsmith3432]

I enjoyed this video! And decided to give them a try to help stabilize my weight & balance and to be less sore at the end of the day. And, yes ma’am, I will be a good steward of the outdoors and I will not stab plants…

[@rei]

We hope they serve you well!

[@nspinicelli]

I hike mostly in the Utah High Uintas. I don't understand how people don't hike without them. It's saved me multiple times on steep terrain especially downhill. And it helps on the grueling uphill sections with 30 pounds on your back. They're essential for me.

[@titanpreparedness]

Great information. I just posted a video of my last trip( 20 miles up a moutain, no trekking poles) i regretted not having them. Totally worth the weight and price.

[@sillybraebabe]

I used to think trekking poles were a waste of space and energy. But after the birth of my daughter, they helped me get back out on the trail! I see why they’re so helpful now. :)

[@Veteran22out]

Just did my 1st hicking trip short one since I retired from the military feel great 👍 I enjoy your videos keep them coming until next time be safe.

[@cmcer1995]

Good review as usual Miranda. I am a firm believer in trekking poles, have used them for years even before problems with my right knee. And yes they are a multipurpose tool as well so well worth the extra weight. Very helpful for those missed steps to prevent a twisted ankle or to relieve the pressure on that ankle if that failed.

[@larryterry7874]

Love Marindas videos. REI should keep her as their main video person .She's like down to earth and has a relaxing way she shows the product's. To their full potential of use for the user in a simple understanding way for everyone.

[@warrenphilips8441]

Wow! Look at all this engagement. Comment sections for REI videos used to be a ghost town before Miranda started making videos....cough. Thanks for the great content.

[@megacab]

She's very fun to watch! I didn't know there was a debate on trekking poles. I agree with another poster, she needs her own channel.

[@msspi764]

I spent a good part of my life, my career, hiking on trails. That and a couple of bad falls screwed up my knees and one ankle. There are days that I don't need much more than a stick, and days when I have a choice of trekking poles or stay home. I really do hope all of you stay out there long enough to need some kind of support like that. It's a badge of a life well lived.

[@wildeescape]

It's taken me a while to use them, but I will say they are worth it. Not only do they help us "less coordinated" folks, but they are amazing for helping your knees out. Give them a try and make sure you go to 1:40 in the video to use them correctly (it's amazing how many people don't).

[@superpac1966]

Used poles for my pilgrimage to Santiago in Spain a few years ago . Loved them. Highly recommended.

[@shaneconta249]

idk how I ever backpacked in Yosemite without them! Would not go without them!

[@RussellYandura]

I have a friend that uses trekking poles and it’s been a great advantage for him. I gave my trekking poles to a now ex-girlfriend of mine which further solidifies that I am not in need of them currently

[@HelloWorld-zg3gs]

She’s funny and informative. Miranda the REI queen.

[@jackfoot1257]

I tore my meniscus years back playing lacrosse and made walking for long period or steep hills painful got my first pair of poles a week ago and their an absolute life saver!

[@Fiercefighter2]

What got me interested in Trekking poles was the movie "The Way Back" based on a memoir where Siberian gulag escapees travel four thousand miles by foot to freedom in India. The guy who fashioned himself some trekking poles at the start of the journey was really wise. I bet trekking poles would really come into their own if you were on an extremely long journey as spreading even 5-10 pounds from your legs to your arms would really compound over a long time and save your joints.

[@THEAR15ONA]

I hiked Pilatus in Switzerland, and met a few Germans on the trail. They had poles, I did not. I injured my hip flex and patellar tendon just ascending at a brisk pace- they did not. My pride told me I didn't need them. I was wrong haha.

[@brandonarrastia]

Trekking poles are lifesavers when going down hill!

[@Belgarathe]

When just going flat country trekking poles takes energy to use. I use them mostly when I need a steady myself crossing a stream, or when I am going down hill for long stretches of time. They have been a lifesaver for my knees. Don’t cheap out in these poles. I had ones that snap and almost impaled me. They had save my friend life that they had stopped her from rolling of a mountain edge by digging into the snow packed ground(it was the diamond brand and carbon fiber).

[@zonlymachine]

Coming from under neath the loop also prevents a possible thumb dislocation if you stick your arms out to brace a fall and you land on a pole

[@chriswells156]

In 1998, I was climbing in the Austrian Alps with a pro climber who was sponsored by Komperdell (I think the inventors of the modern trekking pole). He only half jokingly said that the only people hiking in the mountains without poles were “amateurs and Americans.” He lent me a pair, showed me how to use the straps properly (and safely). I’ve been using them ever since and find them nearly indispensable. I credit them not only for saving me from injury but also extending my climbing, hiking, and backpacking years to the present and beyond. I’m 75.

[@ArloPear25]

Yes trekking poles a very versatile. I was in party on Kiagar Ri when we unknowingly awoke a hibernating Yeti. Needless to say he was not pleased but we were able to use our trekking poles to fend him off and no one was hurt.

[@davidsnow9453]

Always have at least a walking stick in the woods, even on a day hike, valuable in so many ways in a survival situation and self defense if needed.

[@rungavagairun]

I love hiking with poles. I feel more stable. As others have said, helps with knee strain, and I also feel like I can move with more confidence and at a greater speed, especially on flatter trail. Any time I'm on level or semi-level trail, I have my poles pushing me forward from behind like cross country ski poles and I alternate with every stride. Watching people on KZbin hiking with poles with irregular pole rhythms makes me cringe a bit, not mentioning names [but rhymes with sir panda], but you do you. :)

[@divineinpurple9058]

Who would have thought learning about trekking poles could be so much fun?

[@TheSynchronizer]

You ain't wrong about lower body injuries, I finally got a good set and it definitely helps let me get out doors and not damage my hip.

[@yokehuatgoh]

yes, definitely. I use one trekking pole and it's not just because of any heavy backpack. My hiking staff allows me to speed over rocky terrain. I use it like an extended foot/hand hold on tricky, uneven terrain. I use it like a stopper to moderate my speed descending downhill and like a mountaineering pick axe when hiking up steep hills. and i rest over it whenever i need to catch my breath. plus, it's my hiking buddy - i've had it ever since i'd started hiking. it goes everywhere i go. in fact, it's actually a camera stand/hiking staff - which i didn't know about until much later. that's how new i was to hiking when i got it. just thought it be a cool "walking stick". now, i know it's a "Best Buy", a "Must Buy". definitely recommend it to everyone.

[@asil415]

I recommend Leki poles .The problem with 7075 Aluminum ( Black Dimond ) is bad corrosion resistance . Leki Aluminum is better in that regard . Also Leki Speed lock is better then BD flicklock or Flicklock pro since you can easily adjust tension while ascending and descending and they are more grippy . But Black Dimond poles are o.k just Leki is more specialized since all they do is trekking poles. I prefer Leki.

[@laurajean1855]

I thought you should know two things: 1. I found this video very helpful, especially the advice on proper holding positions. And 2. I had to slow the speed to .75 in order to absorb the info because you talk a little too fast for my brain, but at that speed you seem slightly drunk which really adds to the hilarity of your antics. Thanks!

[@janelleanderson6744]

Yeah--that would be my only constructive input, as well. Thanks for bringing it up, Laura. I had to stop and go back three or four times to hear specific words in that same brief segment. Because I enjoy Miranda's delivery so much, and because it was in that one short spot--it was easy for me to blow-off. I've only noticed it in this one video. I also wasn't sure which was most important to me; being able to always easily hear on the first view, or to blissfully watch Miranda's informative, yet beguiling presentation and miss a couple of things because I'm engaged and don't want to pause/go-back. But, yeah--worth bringing up, especially for anyone hearing challenged.

[@fschiller4189]

As I get older I use trekking poles more often because they help me keep my balance in rough terrain and also help me establish a rythm while hiking.

[@Lucario9d]

as someone whos backpacked for a couple years now, I pretty much use my trekking poles half the time. it really depends on how I'm feeling the trail.

[@bigbywolf6510]

Trekking poles help me with balance and reduces fatigue in my legs. If I will be walking 10+ miles I take them.

[@crunchfootjim4936]

Back in the late '80's I started using trekking poles because I developed plantar fasciitis. I would have had to stop hiking/backpacking without them. They relieve the wear and tear on hips,knees,feet by pushing off like you would with x-country skiing. You might want to tighten the straps a little more so you can 'release' the fingers at the end of the push and remember the trekking pole should be in sequence with the opposite leg: left leg-right pole then right leg-left pole. I see so many people doing some version of what I call the walker syndrome: both poles forward and the feet catch up....shocking...I know. Also you should keep the tips pointing slightly outward to prevent yourself from tripping over them. Trekking poles are also great for flicking sticks and branches off the trail and with practice you can flick them off like a champ from either side. :^)

[@janelleanderson6744]

Those were sick tips about pole sequence and alignment--thanks!

[@ronridenour5285]

As usual, informative and funny as hell. "BURP" excuse me...lol. Your grip on the pole is correct and not only does it help tighten the strap, but that particular grip also is safest in case you trip. You can immediately let go of the pole to catch yourself on the ground. Granted, the pole is still on your wrist or arm. But, it beats the grip I have seen people use when they put their hand through the loop from the top. Holding the pole in that manner if you trip and fall forward will cause your hand to become entangled with the strap and I know of some who have broken their wrist. Great video Thank You. Video suggestion: Perhaps one on repairs in the back country. Tent pole repair, air mattress repair, Burn hole in tent from fire repair, Lol... trekking pole repair...etc. Just a thought... See ya...🏕

[@TheRshawn069]

She won me over with the burp & goat impression.

[@micahwinters7021]

She needs her own channel

[@rei]

:) Thank you for watching! - Miranda

[@larryterry7874]

Totally she should be their only person to do the Videos for REI

[@lakorai2]

She could break out Linus from Linus Tech Tips. He was the KZbin personality for NCIX (Canadian competitor to NewEgg.com) before breaking out on his own. As soon as his NCIX contract was up he was gone and is now a multi millionaire. Something to think about Miranda..... You could then break free and review non REI products like Durston Xmid, Tarptent, Zpacks, HMG, ULA, NatureHike.....

[@DarxusC]

@@lakorai2 he bought his channel from NCIX when he left. Well, maybe more like traded.

[@jba6677]

@@lakorai2 pretty sure she had her own channel before REI hired her.

[@gloriamoon5591]

Yay! Another Miranda video! BTW... I’m officially a REI member! Now I need to go back to REI to get trekking poles! ☺️🥾🤩

[@rei]

Hooray!! Welcome to the co-op! - Miranda

[@manape9944]

I’m over 60 and use trekking poles on paved city trails and green spaces. Great workout, love them. Never had a rubber tip fall off, but they do wear out. Buy a package of several rubber tips from REI. 🐏 😁

[@salty8752]

Great video. Keep them coming!!!!

[@Liam-pl7rx]

You actually make trekking poles interesting. Very much enjoyed your presentation and your humor. Your Canadian friend, Liam

[@brada1803]

I love my trekking poles! I use them everytime I ski

[@lauraelizabethbrown]

Dear Miranda, Get your own channel. If you're not contractually allowed to get your own channel, quit your job and get your own channel. Keep all the monies from monetized videos instead of a little fraction of it. You're a gem. You deserve it. Sincerely, Everyone Watching

[@AndrewB416]

After having had my knees wrecked in a motorcycle accident I think I'm going to try some trekking poles. Hope they help!

[@matthewmolnar2230]

I can attest that they help with knee pain. They help a ton.

[@user-ty5fp7vx1u]

I love 'em. They will benefit you GREATLY. Have fun and stay safe out there!

[@TriforceOfTheGods80]

Well that & knee braces.

[@virtisconsole12]

Trekking pole really comes down to providing you the best ability to navigate ANY trails. Obviously 4 points of contact is way better than 2 points. And I’ve been in situations where trekking poles saved my life in water and in loose gravel. HYOH if you want to use them on the sidewalk go right ahead.. and if you think you don’t need them even on a flat even trail with no trip hazards with 20+ LBs on your back, I guarantee after a couple miles you’ll wish you had them. My philosophy is if you’re carrying weight use them

[@MisfitsFiendClub138]

Hiked a steep, muddy trail on Kauai without trekking poles,, fell on my ass about a dozen times. Always use trekking poles now. Especially helpful during difficult technical spots 🤙😃

[@cnelsonmusic]

The new (only) REI in my town is opening in a few weeks...I'm so excited!!

[@christopherwhite8186]

Is this the one in Appleton?

[@cnelsonmusic]

@@christopherwhite8186 Wichita, KS

[@rei]

@@cnelsonmusic We're excited too!

[@janetmeils7750]

I'm new to the hiking world and decided to get a pair to see if it made a difference.. Thanks for the information and for the song and dance! :)

[@Adkhikerandexplorer]

I use mine a lot. They saved me on a couple of occasions when going down a rocky path. I slipped on a boulder, natural reaction was to put the pole behind me. Stopped me from hitting my head. If I’m going up steep rocky areas I’ll put them on my pack and use my hands to climb.

[@kgilliagorilla2761]

I use mine for slippery stuff. The straps help to support your wrists, and hands. This helps from not having to have a “death grip” on the handles. Gripping tightly all day gets old fast.

[@hankhager8561]

I love your videos I think you do a great job of it please do more I enjoy them so much and I do get a lot out of him

[@JamesHardaker]

I think most people tend to walk down terrain with landing on their forward leg fully stretched out. You should bend your knee to reduce impact (uphill you always bend your knee)

[@MrHerks]

I need a Miranda in my life LOL

[@3nertia]

Don't we all!

[@jamesg1425]

One day me and a buddy went for a long hike in our prime. On our way in a group of kind elderly people were already hiking out. I asked what time they started and they said 8am. We started at 9am. Accounting for the difference in start time, they had covered the trail almost twice as fast us. The difference, they all had trekking poles and very big smiles, likely in direct correlation to the trekking poles they possessed. We learned that day

[@rei]

We hope you've been able to take many enjoyable hikes with your trekking poles since 😂

[@btrswt35]

I personally started using them when I have a pack on. It helps stabilize the extra weight of the pack as shifts when I walk. They also are good when you have to cross a muddy section to test how deep the mud is without having to step in it first.

[@fleetfeet9]

I don't go anywhere without my trekking poles! They help take some of the pressure off my knee and help with stability over stream crossings. We've also used them to set up a tent because someone....(me) forgot to bring the tent poles. I have found they also make good mosquito swatters!

[@rachrysler4679]

Trying Appalachian Trail in a few weeks and havent used them before. Thanks for run through on how they work!

[@arthritisadventure]

Such great information and entertaining video!

[@meganjmccrory]

In addition to all the points Miranda made in the video, I use trekking poles to help the circulation in my hands while hiking. When I don't use poles, my fingers swell up.

[@barbshubert9667]

Use poles. Love them. Do practice leave no trace. Thanks for the video.

[@miahoover9225]

I use trekking pokes because I tend to fall a lot.

[@nicholasdesnoyer8505]

I usually just use a hiking stick but I just bought a pair of trekking poles and I'm looking to giving them a try.

[@Denvercoder]

Trekking Poles: There are three benefits that I've discovered. Plus one extra bonus tip since this is KZbin. 1) My wife and I started hiking mostly to lose weight. The extra few calories from using our arms really helps. 2) I broke my leg so bad that it almost wasn't attached anymore. The trekking poles take a lot of strain off my leg/ankle. 3) You can use them to guage the smooshiness of mud and the deepness of snow. Bonus) If you're attacked by a wild animal you can use them to block/defend yourself.

[@timd8470]

I bought my first set of trekking poles at 70 and I love them! I bought a set for my wife and now I have two sets. She won't use them. I have heard a lot of nonsense about trekking pole tip holes causing erosion and that is patently false! Limbs falling from trees, squirrels digging for food, burrowing critters, and deer hooves all make holes in the forest floor and trails with no harm done. In fact, the benefit of punching a small divot in forest floors is that they allow water to seep into compacted soil, carrying nutrients and moisture deeper into the soil ... just like lawn companies do when they aerate your lawns! Please, can we stop acting like humans don't belong in nature?

[@savethebees2506]

Good question. Better answer. Thank you!

[@Seamus3051]

Thanks for another informative, and delightfully presented video. Your effervescent personality always manages to make learning fun .... Cheers.

[@thetiredworm2100]

This vid came just in time!

[@yellowrosecottag]

Miranda you are hilarious! I think I need trekking poles.

[@Forklift_Fella]

I would totally subscribe if this was Miranda's channel.

[@Live4Dirt]

Thank you for the video. I have an issue with my right hip and leg. These could help me be able to hike longer.

[@IliumGaming]

I don’t bring them solely for the sense of superiority over other hikers

[@donnakano282]

I’ve been using trekking poles for many years, even on day hikes because my knees can’t take the pounding going down hills. I’m probably one of the few people who descend into the Grand Canyon more slowly than I climb out. Without the poles, I would have to stick to just flat ground.

[@kd5nrh]

But you didn't show the big long term benefit: let's see those triceps and shoulders. Still trying to find a good solution for ditching one or both poles quickly and quietly for wildlife photography. If that's the primary purpose of a day hike, I'll often just single-pole it with my Kelty Snapshot, (Boo, Kelty, bring it back or I'm never buying your stuff again.) but when backpacking I usually prefer a matched pair of poles, and getting them out of the way without spooking a deer or bird can be tricky.