| What they do | Balance, knee relief, power |
| Used | In pairs |
| Types | Telescoping, folding, fixed |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
Trekking poles are adjustable, lightweight poles used in pairs to improve balance, reduce strain on the knees and legs, and add power on climbs and descents. They help on steep, uneven, or slippery terrain and when crossing streams, and are a popular aid for hikers and backpackers of all levels.
What they do
They share the load with your arms, easing the knees on descents and big elevation gain, and add stability for fording streams.
Sizing
Set them so your elbow bends ~90° with the tip on the ground; shorten for climbs, lengthen for descents.
Types
Telescoping, folding, and fixed-length, in aluminium or lighter carbon.
Frequently asked questions
Do trekking poles really help?
Yes — research and experience show they improve balance and stability on uneven ground and meaningfully reduce the load on the knees and legs, especially on descents and under a heavy pack. They also help on stream crossings and add rhythm and power on climbs.
How do you size trekking poles?
Set the pole length so that when the tip is on the ground, your elbow is bent at about 90 degrees. Many hikers shorten the poles slightly for climbs and lengthen them for descents; adjustable poles make this easy.
Are trekking poles worth it?
For most hikers, yes — particularly on steep, long, or rough trails and with a backpack, where the knee and balance benefits are significant. On short, flat walks they matter less, and some hikers prefer hands-free travel.
Sources
- Using trekking poles — American Hiking Society