How to Choose Trekking Poles
- 1). Determine your level of health, strength and ability, which will help you choose the materials and shape of the trekking poles. Someone with weak ankles or hips will need a pole that can add extra support and absorb shock, while someone in good health with ideal strength conditions can use a standard pole without worries.
- 2). Measure your height. Height will make a difference in which poles to get. Youth poles or compact poles are used by those who are shorter and have smaller hands. Most women and growing youths will need compact trekking poles to have an appropriate grip and length.
- 3). Test the weight of the poles. According to REI, lighter trekking poles are often more expensive than heavier ones because of the materials used in construction. When selecting a trekking pole, consider whether the weight is comfortable and whether a lighter-weight pole is worth the extra expense.
- 4). Look at the hiking terrain. Trekking poles are made for two basic terrain types: rugged terrain or smooth terrain. The bottom of the pole differs slightly between the two terrain types, so any harsher location will need a pole designed for rugged terrains, while a smooth hike or easy path will use a different pole type.
Source...