TOP TREKKING POLE TIPS // 5 Tips & 5 Reasons for using trekking poles

[@OutsideChronicles]

Do you use trekking poles? Do you like to use two or just one? I switch back and forth. I find some mountains in the Adirondacks I drop to a single pole that I switch between hands.

[@calid.]

I would like to get some for the bugoutbags of my elderlys but there is no trekking pole around that tells how much weight it can endure:/

[@naturelover7409]

Does poles put pressure on hands and shoulders ?

[@AllThingsConsidered333]

I just started using a pair yesterday! Found them at a rummage sale for $1 - in great condition! And they are the clip lock kind not the twist lock. My body has been very challenged from tick diseases and indoor molds for the last decade and I’m finally well enough to be more active (still can’t do intense activity). I’ve been really enjoying hiking and want to do more and longer hikes. But I want to make sure I am careful to support my body and not do too much so I can do this for a long time!

[@anilphilip546]

What tip to use on a trekking pole to navigate icy sidewalks during winter?

[@judyhowell7075]

@@anilphilip546 they usually different spikes to use

[@theawesomer8587]

One thing I do is that I have mine marked with a stripe of white paint (my poles are black) at the same height my boots are, so I know if the depth of the water or mud will be higher than my boots are.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great tip! See you outside!

[@Foskey83]

Excellent tip.

[@Speleogoupil]

I use the straps exactly as you suggest, with an extra tip to be used going downhill. When the slope is steep, while placing the poles in front of me, I like switching my grip on them with placing the palm of my hands on the top of the handles. It allows me to keep my wrists aligned with my arms, with a very strong hold, and it is very easy to switch to the regular grip on the fly. I have been using that for skying for decades, and it is just natural for me to use those skills for hiking too.

[@OutsideChronicles]

I do the same sometimes, placing my palm in top for steep bouncing on the decline, it really gives you a solid base. Thanks for the comment, see you outside!

[@eddiealexander5276]

Good advice, I found it easier on steep descents too

[@garybesaw]

Yeah definitely Thank you for the tip and the advice. I'm going to start to be using trekking poles so that's a very good point about going down steeper hills.

[@laurahompus]

Isn't that exactly why the top of the knob is shaped the way that it is? To accomodate for that top grip?

[@Speleogoupil]

@@laurahompus I don't know, but it makes sens.

[@melodynorris345]

I used Trekking Poles for the first time today. I have gotten very unbalanced , because of having 3 back surgeries. Using the poles were easy to use, once I realized how award I have gotten. I was walking on the concrete by the pool patio, which made it easier. I will be going out into the yard soon. Your video helped me out ! 😊

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great to hear it helped. Keep moving!

[@zen-sean]

In Australia we always use a stick to lightly stomp the ground as we’re walking through the bush to let all the critters know we’re coming, snakes and spiders are chill if you let them know you’re passing by.

[@chriswells156]

Your advice for how to hold the poles is spot on. In 1998, I climbed in the Alps with an Austrian who was a professional guide who had spent an earlier career with Komperdell, the pole manufacturer. He introduced me to hiking poles, saying, “Pros always use poles (or ice axes, if appropriate). Amateurs usually don’t.” He also showed me the correct way to use the straps, just the way you showed. Almost no one was using poles in the States in those days. They are much more common now, but few hikers no use them correctly. Most keep a death grip on the handle. Your reasons for using them are also spot on. They save energy, knees on descents, and generally keep you upright in dodgy situations.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks for sharing your story. The Alps must have been amazing! See you outside!

[@chriswells156]

@@OutsideChronicles I went back the next summer to celebrate my 50th birthday by doing the Monte Rosa Traverse and the Tour de Mont Blanc.

[@naturelover7409]

What you suggest to strengthen shoulders and back for carrying backpacks on hike as they are my weakness while hiking ? Many thanks

[@chriswells156]

@@naturelover7409 Except for small daypacks and slings, a well-designed daypack or backpack should transfer pack weight to your hips and legs. Although a strong back and shoulders can be beneficial, your shoulders and upper back should not feel much weight. Shoulder and sternum straps keep the pack positioned properly over your center of gravity.

[@naturelover7409]

@@chriswells156 thank you. Any backpack that you suggest ?

[@armwrestling_nerd]

I do actually put the poles in front of myself where I am going to put my feet. The reason is because im blind (0.4% tunnel vision). Im not using them to gain balance or traction, it's mainly for tactile feedback to know where I can put my feet.

[@judyhowell7075]

I have early Parkinson’s and find these are great for stability and helping me keep arms moving for balance

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great to hear, thanks for watching, see you outside!

[@davidtoth4287]

i call it 4 wheel drive for hiking! its saved my knees coming down the mountains and saved my legs going up ! ( saved my ass a few times too)

[@OutsideChronicles]

You bet, it is a life saver on the descent. See you outside!

[@anthonybeckman9665]

I was skeptical about trekking poles - that is until I hiked the 26-mile ultra at Letchworth park with them. It made such a difference. Now I won't leave home without them. Great video, Mike. Thanks for solidifying my decision to purchase trekking poles.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great to hear that they made a difference, what kind did you buy?

[@anthonybeckman9665]

@@OutsideChronicles I got a set of Montems for myself. They were a great price. I am not very impressed with them, but they work. They bent 2x already after minor falls. I just bought my wife a pair of black diamond poles that we're about 2x the price and we are hopeful we will get much more durability and comfort out of them. Testing the black.diamond poles.this weekend. My Montems will be serviceable for a while.

[@joshuamoore4537]

One backpack I like to wear on my hikes; are Camelbak Hiking Backpacks. They can carry 2 or more liters of water, can hold lots of gear, & can carry Trekking or Skiing Poles.

[@hannahholowach46]

I've been using trekking poles for a couple years now. I find using one pole easier on trails with rock scrambles. On my trip up Macomb and South Dix, I liked one pole going up the avalanche slide because I could grab onto rocks and use the pole. Two poles are better in the winter in my opinion. I have a set of Black Diamond poles which are amazing !!!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Yep, exactly what I prefer once you hit elevation. I switch hands based on grabs too. And agree, I almost always have two if I have snowshoes in. BD are nice poles. My friend bought the BD Whippet for winter summits to replace an ice axe. The Dix range is a good one, I have only done it in the winter. Hope to do it when it’s green. See you outside!

[@914Rocky]

Good tip for one pole use.

[@kd5nrh]

Another tip; on that top section where you've got the Gorilla Tape, also add a wrap of retroreflective tape. One more bit of visibility when you have to park away from the trailhead and hike the road back to the car at twilight, and something else to make you visible if you need a rescue at night. Plus it's so much easier to find all your gear while packing up camp to set out at first light if everything that's easily missed has a frickin' beacon to glow from your headlamp.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great suggestion, I put some on my bear canister so I can find it in the dark. See you outside!

[@spotsandstripes2]

Useful video! I just got trekking poles as an alternative to a walking stick so I can get out and about over mixed terrain with my dogs while I wait for recently re-torn ankle ligaments to strengthen back up .. fallen in love with how natural they feel in comparison to crutch or walking stick .. think I will actually use these permanently like I should have my walking stick if I could have got on with it .. I tore almost right through most of the ligaments in my ankle a few years ago and have had permanent instability in it since .. look after your joints folks, you’ll end up regretting it if you don’t !!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thank you, glad trekking poles are helping you get outside more! See you outside!

[@goodintentions1302]

I never used trekking poles until trekking in the Himalayas. Since then I've seen the benefits, where before I just thought they were silly & for lazy people. I also, before that, climbed Mt Kilimanjaro in severe weather without trekking poles. We had to go as much as 20 feet away from the usual path to avoid water over our heads, & we were still in water above my knees. Trekking poles would have definitely helped. I've saved this video in my contacts to share with others who think like I used to. ☮️💞🙏🏼

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks for the great comment! I am a little jealous Himalayas and Kilimanjaro, very impressive. I get a lot of comments from people that knock them before they use them. I am like you, if the terrain is tough or it is a long hike, I never leave home w/o poles. See you outside!

[@curtislund8322]

I just bought trekking poles this week. This is the best video I've seen and there are many of them. I'm a beginner and this video has been a huge help, thank you!

[@914Rocky]

Can’t wait to try the straps from below. I’ve been using them the other way for at least 15 years without problems but I’m super curious. I really like using the straps and putting weight on them. Really helps with hand fatigue. For me, the poles are game changes for knee pain going down hill. I was a college rower and high school distance runner and have challenging knees - particularly with arthritis as I got into my 50s. But where I have nothing but pain without poles going down hill, I have zero pain with the poles. Zero pain. Comically, while doing the hike to Angel’s Landing at Zion last year, a guy my age’s daughter begged me to talk to her dad to convince him to use poles. He thought they were for senior citizens or non-tough guys. Anyway, I let him borrow my poles for a couple of hundred down hill yards and converted he was. I love double poling on steep uphills as you suggested. It makes climbs massively easier. Lastly, on a hike in Yosemite two weeks ago, I left my poles in the car because the hike was dead flat around a lake. About 6 miles in, the trail was completely flooded, think 3 feet deep. So we decided to scramble around the flooding. That turned into an epic climbing, boulder and log scramble through dense brush for 2-3 miles. And, of course, I wrenched my knee slipping on a wet boulder after climbing over a downed log. Result? 5-6 miles of intense pain in my right knee and I wouldn’t have fallen if had had my poles. So, I’ve since bought the 3 part collapsible poles that will always travel with me and might replace my telescopic poles. Miraculously, my knee was 100% fine the next day so we were able to hike for 6 more days. Pro tip, if you visit Yosemite, do not think of missing Sequoia National Park if only for a day trip. OMG. Amazing.

[@gaillmani1942]

I love my Hiking poles/sticks(Foxelli Hiking Poles )Our town has terrible heaving interlocking stone sidewalks & roads full of holes. With my sticks I don't need to worry about tripping as they help when I hit anything uneven even when hiking in the bush. As well my husband now has to work harder to keep up with me as I can walk much faster & further distance, plus all the benefit mentioned in this video. Thanks for info.

[@awallerfamily]

Ive got 3 sticks. 2 that are a little over waist high on me. 6' 2". A little curve to them that gives them a bit of absorption and spring. Roughly 1" in diameter with a tapering at the bottom. One with bark still and one without. My 3rd is a 5 ft ratan jo. I Love it. And of course one day one of my sticks will break. They have before but the woods will always give you another one. #sticknation.

[@mrreddington777]

Thanks for the video. I’ve never used these but plan on buying a pair. Having heart issues my energy isn’t the same anymore and these would help immensely.

[@davidash2158]

Excellent Video

[@jacku4718]

Very clear and helpful

[@Outsidetrailsandwoods]

Thanks for the info on using poles i recently purchased a pair and realized i needed help in using them properly

[@BeginnerBirder]

It wasn’t a trekking pole but I injured my hand in the exact way you described on a ski pole a few years back which needed surgery to fix and a big ol’ cast for a while…not fun so highly suggest everyone pays attention to the tip on the straps!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Sorry that happened. I am sure the trekking pole strap tip I showed is from the skiing world. Hope your hand is doing better. See you outside!

[@markrichards3747]

I've been using some Leki poles for about 2 years and wouldn't go hiking without them. This past vacation I used a tip you gave to great success. On a trail on Beaver Island, Michigan about 1/3 of the trail was a narrow boardwalk that snaked through a marsh with a couple of areas of creek. I didn't have enough width for my poles and shoes on the boards so I used them in the creek bed and marsh. Made it super easy to keep my balance!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great to hear, thanks for the comment. See you outside!

[@rainlei9324]

don’t they get in the way a lot of times when you have to crawl up and over bolders and tree trunks? pull yourself up mountainsides? i want to bring them but just pull them out for rare occasions when there is nothing to hold onto with my hands that’s stable like in mud or ice

[@markrichards3747]

I don't do mountain hikes so I don't have to tackle those types of obstacles. But they have quick releases on them so you can collapse them to about 16 inches or so and they pack quite easily. Using them helps going uphill and they also reduce knee and ankle stress when descending.

[@ernestomelendez6772]

Thank you so much for your tips! I’m starting trekking @73 yo!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Poles will definitely help, thanks for the comment. See you outside!

[@JimMelcher]

Well done! I came to find out how tall I should make my poles (and I am glad I checked- I had the wrong idea), then I found all this other great advice, including from the excellent comments.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Glad I could help!

[@robertjohnston8876]

Great video Many thanks from Canada

[@OutsideChronicles]

Our neighbors to the north, being in Buffalo almost feels like Canada minus the poutine. See you outside!

[@haroldhunter4671]

Thank you for the info, I am just in the exploratory consideration of hiking seriously. I believe trekking poles will be instrumental in enjoying the hike and a safe return.

[@sunset3052]

Nice video with great tips/advice.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Glad it was helpful! See you outside!

[@timgraaff7551]

Thanks for the tip. Etleast I’ll look like I know what I’m doing!

[@OutsideChronicles]

No right or wrong way really, no matter how you use them, they will be a benefit. Just a couple of tips to enhance your usage. See you outside!

[@justme.9711]

What about removing the straps/lanyards. People who use walking sticks don't use a lanyard or strap do they? Are they an asset, or just a fashion that is assumed a benefit?

[@OutsideChronicles]

That is an option, but I the straps if worn correctly provide stability and reduce forearm fatigue.

[@eddiealexander5276]

Hi OC, great advice and I wish this had been published before my hike in the Lake District( England). Tip 1 is very useful to know. I can't tell you how many times I had to stop to adjust the grip because it was so annoying when I didn't need to use them on the flat. The one you advise would have been better as I would have been able to just drop them and have hands free. The tip about making them longer on downhill stretches is brilliant took me a little while to figure it out but at least on the long and steep downhill trek back to base, I'd cracked it and stopped the lean over if they're too short which obviously means all your weight is forward and there's no balance! Great tip. On tip 5, the funny thing is I'd lost the rubber tip which came off in a crack going uphill ha ha! But then I found it easier just using the tip. On scrambles near the peak of the mountains, I found it easier to trust hands and feet and feet and simply maintain 3/4 points of contact however walking the ridges and gradual climbs and descents- poles are great. Wish I had them 25 years ago! Keep up the great work and hope you can get to the UK sometime

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks for the great comment. I have seen some videos on the Lake District, it looks beautiful. I am glad you found value in the video. Your use of poles is similar to mine. I will ditch them or drop to one on scrambles to maintain 3 points of contact. Thanks for your support and I will see you outside!

[@MikolajOlszowski]

I am a trekking Pole and I totally agree with your video.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Ha, I am a trekking pole too! Sto lat! Do zobaczenia na zewnątrz!

[@m0L3ify]

I was able to double my walk time on the first day of using poles. It was amazing! And so fun!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Cool, I am definitely faster with pole, especially on downhills in the Adirondacks and Catskills. See you outside!

[@smithhueso3247]

Great tips! I just bought a pair because the Army decided to keep most of the cartilage in my knees, lol. I will apply your advice and let you know how it goes!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great to hear we have another convert. Trekking poles will definitely help with your knees. I have had two surgeries on my left knee and notice a difference in rough terrain when I am not using poles...especially on descents. See you outside!

[@atweyesea]

Thanks Mike, Love the tips! I don't step on a trail without mine.

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure, glad to hear you consider them essential items. See you outside.

[@scottchastenay1431]

Nice video! But going to disagree on removing the rubber feet from the tips, I find I get better purchase on most surfaces with the feet on, also less sinking into wetter/softer soils. Definitely rubber feet off in winter.

[@scottcluffmusic4577]

Thanks for the tips! I love using trekking poles! Makes hikes so much better and less pain on the body.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Totally agree! See you outside!

[@mikenorris258]

Thank you for this excellent primer! My wife and I just bought trekking poles and you've helped us avoid the rookie mistakes we surely would have made. Your advice and clear demonstrations are greatly appreciated!

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure, see you outside!

[@inmongoose]

I pretty much always take at least one trekking pole on hikes (unless it's a paved surface). Not only does it help with stability, but with snakes, etc. we might encounter.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Snakes! Another great use. See you outside!

[@brendarichardson4394]

I have watched scads of nordic/hiking/pole videos and finally found this one. It was perfect and exactly what I needed.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Glad it was helpful, see you outside!

[@jotampas634]

Thank you. I just bought mine, and this was a great video about the correctly size and use them!

[@lillypeterson4614]

Loved your presentation. Direct, clear, on point!!! Thank You Mike!

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure, see you outside!

[@nomadtravelcafe]

Very helpful video. No non-sense approach.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thank you! See you outside.

[@richmondmarketingsystems7900]

Definitely going to try your strap suggestion. I usually don’t use the straps at all. Sooner or later I will probably lose a pole.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Give it a try, it really helps with forearm fatigue. See you outside, let me know how it works for you.

[@RDJim]

I only insert my four fingers and palm through the straps - leaving my thumb out. You have to adjust the length of the strap so you can lean on the straps to reduce the amount of grip you have to use. It's a hybrid to the method you showed and if you take a tumble down a steep slope, the poles can fall away and reduce the risk that you'll break an arm if you roll over your pole.

[@OutsideChronicles]

That will work. I had downhill ski poles that worked like that, but with stiff rubber that did not actually join. There is a few Leki models that have straps that kind of work like that, see leki-store.mwrc.net/en/product.php?product_id=71970

[@stans6582]

well done..............thanks

[@ricardodartist1613]

Thank you for this great video. Cheers from Brisbane Australia

[@eee-man9545]

I went on a hike on the weekend I have a very weak abdomen because I’m overweight and sit for work, my main issue was not fatigue but the back pain will these alleviate some of the back pain I wanted to continue but my back would give out, I’m thinking of going back with these sticks and maybe create a routine until I reach the top

[@OutsideChronicles]

Yes, trekking poles will help you out. They will distribute your weight a bit taking stress off your back and knees. Start small and build up to your goal. Good for you wanting to make a change, getting outside is the best way. See you outside!

[@MikTara]

Excellent points

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks! See you outside!

[@deafmano979]

Thanks! Now make a lots sense due to falls and accident during hiking and climbing. i will looki into of getting pair for my hiking next time i go on step hike

[@OutsideChronicles]

I used to resist trekking poles, but now I use them religiously on solo hikes and difficult hikes. See you outside.

[@josueneris1861]

Amazing tips! I’m definitely buying trekking poles!

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure, trekking poles are a game changer, especially on rocky mountainous terrain. See you outside!

[@edrader]

really good info! i don't use the straps and i have an an extended grip on my poles so i generally leave the poles at one length and just move my hands

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thank you! See you outside!

[@hellowill]

Wow the "go through the bottom tip" helped! Now the poles naturally go in that backwards angle. Don't even have to think about them anymore. Poles made a big difference for me; since I train upperbody I no longer have extra weight that isn't doing anything!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great to hear! See you outside!

[@Antzzz_Manzzz]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@OutsideChronicles]

You’re welcome, see you outside!

[@antics562]

thanks for making this video lots of great information!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks so much, see you outside!

[@user-he8qc4mr4i]

Nice Tricks! thx for sharing

[@OutsideChronicles]

Always welcome, see you outside!

[@michaelmase9582]

Clear and useful info. thanks. I just bought a pair for stability as I age and this has been very helpful.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great to hear! Trekking poles are a great supplement to hiking. See you outside!

[@bertrandbonnety257]

Regarding the carbide tips on the trail: in some places they are forbidden because they are causing damages. In this case you need to use the rubber tip.

[@OutsideChronicles]

I have not encountered a trail that does not allow them. Microspikes and crampons cause similar scrapes in the NE.

[@bertrandbonnety257]

@@OutsideChronicles It’s the case on some trails in France, where the local authorities does not allow metallic tips because of many trailers and some sensitive soil / flore.

[@bertrandbonnety257]

@@OutsideChronicles It’s the case on some trails in France, where the local authorities does not allow metallic tips because of many trailers and some sensitive soil / flore.

[@olegc6209]

Thank you that was useful

[@larsthorwald3338]

If you like 'em, carry 'em. For me, they're just extra weight that gets in the way. I have a pair, but they never leave the garage unless I'm snowshoeing, when stability is actually an issue. I might start carrying them regularly when I'm 90.

[@wlovett4]

Kudos and thanks for a well organized, informative and enjoyable presentation.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks so much, see you outside!

[@karipintakivi9153]

6:17 : That is the ONLY way to use the wrist strap! (only that you did not flip the loop over to make it fit between palm and grip perfectly...). a) all weight can be put on the pole without squeezing the grip at all. b) safety, like explained. c) open your hands and the poles hang by the straps: use camera, binoculars, take sip of water, pick your nose, whatever. To continue just flip your wrist and continue. d) when hopping over streams etc you can place your palm on the top of the poles for extra reach. I have used trekking poles since 1997, with thousands of miles of X-country skiing at primary school age already it is second nature to me.

[@hike-bike-paddle-and-drone]

Great info Mike!!! Its the exact checklist I go through with anyone new hiking with me, especially with some of us advancing through our years. Amazing what any one of those little tips will do! Jeff

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks, trekking poles help everyone, for those advancing in years and those a bit younger. They help everyone hike longer, faster, and with more confidence. See you outside!

[@simonharrison2772]

Absolutely excellent instruction/review, thank you very much. I have been using poles for ultra events but not making the most of them. You have helped my learning journey continue.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks, hope these tips help improve your times! See you outside!

[@mikebox]

its in addition to my 10 essentials..

[@OutsideChronicles]

You bet, me too!

[@khurrammirza2674]

Excellent video mate!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thank you, see you outside!

[@markcummings6856]

Great video. Very good points. Been using for years even though I have a love/hate relationship with them. Primarily use one.

[@OutsideChronicles]

I do too, but I think the benefits outweigh any negatives. Switching to one pole when I hit rocky elevations leaves one hand free to grab roots and trees. See you outside.

[@csteezy22]

Tip#1 is great!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Cool, thank you. See you outside!

[@takeaseat6969]

I really need these for the downhill. I really hate downhill, but my knees hate it more.

[@OutsideChronicles]

I agree, I find the largest benefit to trekking poles is on the downhill, both for speed and to save my knees. See you outside!

[@TruckingwithAngieandSera]

Thank you 😊 I really needed this information

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure, glad it was helpful. See you outside!

[@dansouth2088]

Good stuff....thank you!

[@OutsideChronicles]

My pleasure, see you outside!

[@todds4101]

Great video! I'm actually making some walking sticks on my lathe now. This helped with final design. New subscriber. Enjoy your content. The "How to ID trees in the winter" video attracted me to your channel. Great job on vids, btw!!!!

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks so much for subscribing, it means a lot. See you outside!

[@WKhan-fh2pp]

Great tips 👍

[@testpilot1us]

Awesome video, I agree 100%. You left out not getting swollen hands. Also what brand do you recommend?

[@OutsideChronicles]

Rob, I personally use Leki (NA corporate offices in Buffalo). I also own Cascade Mountain Tech that my family use. They have been recommended by many on the internet. I linked both in the description. I also prefer Aluminum over Graphite. I like the feel and fear graphite will snap if caught in ADK rocks.

[@testpilot1us]

@@OutsideChronicles What is your take on the Anti-shock tips?

[@OutsideChronicles]

@@testpilot1us I liked the anti-shock, but I did not like the poles. They were the twist style. I do not miss the anti-shock (I do not think). Leki just sent me a set of Makalu with antishock and the snap type adjusters. This might be the best of both worlds.

[@testpilot1us]

@@OutsideChronicles If you end up talking to a rep, let them know that it would be nice to have some way to figure out which pole to purchase. Too many choices and no easy way to compare or figure out.

[@dontiadonatas7306]

Thanks. Good information ⭐⭐⭐

[@OutsideChronicles]

Glad it was helpful! See you outside!

[@garybesaw]

Thanks for the tip Mike. Is there a particular brand you like? I know they can get awfully pricey. I do the the cork hand grips and the handles on a slight angle. Thanks again for your help.

[@OutsideChronicles]

My opinion is Leki poles are the best. I am a bit biased since their NA HQ is in Buffalo. If they are outside your budget, look at Cascade Designs.

[@Butchyboysadventures]

Intersting facts ❤good stuff

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks, see you outside!

[@Butchyboysadventures]

You certainly will my friend 😊

[@brooks8792]

I like them because I feel safer with them. I have pepper spray, but I feel the poles add a layer of protection as we as being functional.😊

[@marioman890]

do they detach so you can fit it in a suitcase for travel

[@OutsideChronicles]

They are retractable, but you can detach to gain a couple more inches for your suitcase.

[@jerichox29]

1) While trekking on wet rocks or boulders, don't you think there are chances of the pole bottom to slip when exerted body pressure since they don't dig there causing risky body disbalance? 2) Similarly, on such surfaces, shouldn't the rubber covering more surface area at the tip of the pole give more traction and grip than a pointy metal tip which can slip any moment? 3) What is your opinion about using 2 trek poles of 2 different brands in 2 hands with same height though? Informative video. I do Himalayan treks, being from India, and have two trek poles.

[@OutsideChronicles]

So the tips of quality poles are carbide and provide a ton of traction and stability on rocks. Leki are actually a concave carbide tip that holds even better on rock. As for two brands, it’s not an issue as long as you are comfortable. I’d flip flop hands every few miles.

[@christbuilds7409]

I get why you would use them but we're not evolved animals, would they help with lower back osteoarthritis?

[@OutsideChronicles]

Yes, using trekking poles helps take the strain off your knees and back.

[@lexsodz]

Awesome video and tips! That pole length tip was great. I'll use it for my upcoming mountain marathon. I started using poles in 2016 when at 30 I noticed my knees took a beating and realized I couldn't run downhill as I did when I was 10 years old Love the: they're good to fend off a dog, hope you don't meet a bear haha.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks for the comment. Unfortunately we are not getting any younger, but that does not mean we can’t get after it. Good luck on the marathon!

[@PP-ob8zr]

NICE JOB 🙂👍🏻

[@OutsideChronicles]

Thanks! See you outside!

[@jesurunblends]

HOW ABOUT A WALKING STICK ? WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS , TY FOR YOUR VIEOS

[@OutsideChronicles]

Better than nothing, but you do not get some of the benefits of two modern trekking poles.

[@juanpablo-mu6wq]

Hey! Are you still using the instinct 2 watch?

[@OutsideChronicles]

I actually have the Instinct Solar v1 and yes, I am still using it and love it. I have a bunch of videos on my channel about it. See you outside!

[@--Taz--]

When I see I need a trekking pole, I pick up a branch or stick. In some situations is vital.

[@desertflowerz89]

I’m new to hiking and bought some after seeing this. Costco win 😂

[@OutsideChronicles]

Great to hear, I think Cosco sellers the Cascade Mountain Tech, they will get the job done. See you outside!

[@mikekofMorrison]

One thing you didn't mention that trekking poles are handy for...snakes. Out here in the west, if you do a lot of hiking, you will encounter a rattlesnake on the trail. I've used mine a couple times to move the snake off the trail. It keeps you at a safe distance from the snake. Of course, if it is safe, step off the trail and give the snake a wide berth. But sometimes if there is a steep drop-off, you have to either move the snake or turn around. I have used my trekking pole by pushing the tip under the snake and then flipping the snake off the side of the trail. This helps hikers that follow behind you. I hate killing snakes as they help control the insect population.

[@OutsideChronicles]

You bet!

[@dsmith9572]

What if you fall and stab your self with the carbide tip on your trekking pole?

[@OutsideChronicles]

Very unlikely.

[@rainlei9324]

i see the value in all the incidental extra ways poles can help but just to walk? unless you’re frail - poles seem to limit your adventuring ability as you’re hands are not free. you can’t climb over boulders and trunks as quick and easily - they are just in the way. you look like a fit enough person but using the poles you’re not learning to use your body - it’s keeping people clumsy and reliant on something they don’t need if they just learned to use their energy and shift of weight - which is the best part of hiking - not just to walk easily like you’re walking on concrete

[@OutsideChronicles]

Have you ever hiked any of the mountains in the Northeast? You are rock hopping and dealing with uneven surfaces. Trekking poles allow me to move much quicker. I did not use trekking poles for years, but after using them the benefits of speed and less west and tear make me a strong proponent.

[@SharpUchi]

I read that your arms are supposed to be at 90 degree angle so I was gunna return mine assuming I was too tall for them, but I notice yours are not at a 90 either

[@OutsideChronicles]

90 degrees is the best place to start for flat. I maybe a bit below 90 in the video, but I do try to start around 90. I adjust them up or down depending on terrain. In the end, a little shorter is better than too long. I would suggest you get ones that are long enough to extend beyond 90 for downhills.

[@SharpUchi]

@@OutsideChronicles thank you

[@deafmano979]

Now it gives me a good reason to get tracking pole dut to age haha!...

[@OutsideChronicles]

You can't beat Cascade Mountain Tech, I liked to my poles and those in the description.

[@ClintonStClair]

That’s it I’m gettin trekking poles

[@OutsideChronicles]

Nice! Glad this video convinced you. See you outside!

[@914Rocky]

I’m putting the gorilla tape on my poles tonight. Great tip.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Use it all the time!

[@jessegoodspeed5076]

I'm not here to argue but its preference I believe I tried to.use them over hundreds of miles. They not for me. To me it's just something more to carry in your hands. I enjoy where I am more without them. I never felt any diff using them beside a burden. I know guys who say opposite. I would say use them and see if ita for you

[@lilsnacky3609]

How did you turn your trekking pole into a selfie stick?

[@OutsideChronicles]

I use an adapter. I think the one I used in this video is a GoPro adapter for bike handlebars. There are a few solutions like that for phones.

[@Pineconepicker1]

The grip you use correct but the reason you use it is wrong. The actual reason is so you actually let go of the pole while walking to rest your entire arm and shoulder. Then as you bring your hand forward with the strap adjusted properly the grip will come right back into your hand in the exact same position every time. Cross country skiers use this same grip while trekking or racing. The poles are slightly different but their use is identical.

[@OutsideChronicles]

Another benefit, thanks for sharing! See you outside.

[@moonshinerphd9523]

I carry a hickory stick, you have to keep one hand open for quick access to your firearm should the need arise.