How to Use Trekking Poles: A Complete Guide
Trekking poles are underrated by many, but a game-changer once you start using them. Whether you’re climbing steep switchbacks, navigating rocky descents, or trekking long distances, the right pair of poles can reduce strain, improve balance, and increase efficiency on the trail.
And no, trekking poles aren’t just for older hikers. They’re for anyone who wants to hike stronger, move faster, and protect their joints. Let’s break down why they matter and how to use them properly.
Why Use Trekking Poles?
Hiking is a full-body activity, so why rely only on your legs? Trekking poles help distribute the workload, making your hike more efficient and enjoyable. Here’s what they bring to the table:
1. Increased Stability & Balance
• Trekking poles turn you into “four-wheel drive” mode by providing extra points of contact with the ground.
• They help you stay upright on uneven terrain, mud, snow, and loose rock.
• On river crossings, they act as an anchor, preventing slips and falls.
2. Less Strain on Joints & Muscles
• Poles absorb impact, especially on steep descents, reducing strain on knees, ankles, and hips.
• Studies show they decrease the load on your legs by up to 20%, helping you hike longer without fatigue.
3. More Power & Efficiency
• Trekking poles engage your upper body, allowing your arms to contribute to forward movement instead of just hanging by your sides.
• They improve posture and help reduce swelling in hands and fingers, which can happen on long hikes.
How to Use Trekking Poles Correctly
Now that you know why trekking poles matter, let’s cover how to use them the right way for maximum benefit.
Grip & Handling: The Right Way to Hold Your Poles
• Don’t grip too tightly—let the wrist straps do the work to reduce hand fatigue.
• How to use the strap properly:
• Slide your hand up through the bottom of the strap.
• Rest the strap across the back of your wrist and grip the pole lightly.
• This way, even if you let go, the pole stays in place.
• When hiking uphill, grip the pole from below to maintain power and protect your thumbs in case of a fall.
Adjusting Pole Height for Different Terrains
Most trekking poles are adjustable, and proper height makes a huge difference in comfort and efficiency.
• On flat ground: Your elbow should form a 90-degree angle when holding the pole.
• Going uphill: Shorten your poles slightly for better leverage and uphill support.
• Going downhill: Lengthen your poles so they can reach further down for stability.
Trekking Pole Techniques for Different Terrains
✔ Uphill Hiking:
• Use opposite hand-leg movement (right foot forward, left pole forward).
• Engage your arms to push yourself up, reducing leg fatigue.
✔ Downhill Hiking:
• Lengthen your poles and plant them ahead of you to control your descent.
• Grip the top of the pole with your palm for better weight distribution.
• Use both poles simultaneously on steep descents for extra support.
✔ Flat Ground Hiking:
• Keep a natural rhythm, letting the poles move in sync with your steps.
• Angle them slightly backward to propel yourself forward efficiently.
Additional Trekking Pole Tips
1. Remove the Plastic Tip Covers
• The plastic covers on trekking pole tips are meant for pavement—not the trail.
• Remove them to expose the carbide tips, which grip dirt, rock, and roots much better.
2. Use Baskets for Snow & Mud
• If you’re hiking in muddy or snowy conditions, attach trekking pole baskets to prevent them from sinking too deep.
3. Practice & Experiment
• Just like hiking itself, using trekking poles feels awkward at first. Give yourself time to find your rhythm and adjust techniques to your comfort.
• Test different pole lengths, hand positions, and movements on different types of terrain.
Final Thoughts: Are Trekking Poles Worth It?
Absolutely. Trekking poles enhance stability, reduce strain, and make hiking more efficient—whether you’re on a multi-day trek or a short day hike.
To get the most out of them, focus on proper grip, pole height adjustments, and terrain-specific techniques. Once you dial in your method, you’ll wonder how you ever hiked without them.
So grab your poles, hit the trail, and hike smarter, not harder.
Happy hiking!