Hiking polesPractical or unnecessary?

Hiking poles and trekking sticks are becoming more and more popular. In the past, their use was quite derided, but today, more and more hikers rely on the support of these functional aids. But using poles doesn’t always help. We show you the advantages of hiking poles, where they are best suited and why it is sometimes best to go without them.

Advantages: less strain and more stability

Advantages of Hiking Poles Hiking poles are obvious. They reduce stress on the joints, especially the knees and spine, because they distribute the weight between the arms and legs. This also reduces stress on the leg muscles. For hikers with joint or spinal problems, walking poles are a great way to make the journey easier. They also provide extra power when going uphill.

Another aspect is the increased stability and safety due to the increased number of contact points, which ensures better balance and posture. Especially when carrying heavier loads, e.g. in the form of a loaded rucksack, this can make a big difference over longer distances. On slippery or uneven ground, trekking poles provide better grip and stability, making it easier to tackle more difficult routes.

Against: risk of injury and reduced balance
But that’s exactly the problem. If the pole gets stuck, slips on rocky ground or loose telescopic joints suddenly push together, the desired grip can become dangerous and, on the contrary, < /span>may even increase. That’s why you should never rely entirely on the post and always make sure you stay on your feet. Danger of falls and injuries

This leads directly to the next disadvantage of hiking poles. Frequent or even excessive use may lead to deterioration of balance and coordination. However, it is these skills that are quite important when hiking in the countryside. A lack of coordination skills may lead to unsafe conditions in difficult terrain where poles cannot be used.

This leads directly to the next disadvantage of our hiking poles. Frequent or even excessive use may cause your balance and coordination to deteriorate. However, these skills are especially important when hiking in the backcountry. A lack of coordination skills may lead to instability in difficult terrain where poles cannot be used.

In particularly impassable areas where you must use both hands, hiking poles can quickly become unwieldy and annoying. Poles can also be an additional burden for the already insecure, as they have to think not only about where to take each step, but also where to poke the pole.

Hiking poles provide good support, especially for older people whose sense of balance or coordination has deteriorated. Since the use of hiking poles reduces the burden on the joints and spine, they are also recommended for hikers who already have joint problems and wish to balance their deficiencies.
For day hikes or in rugged or difficult terrain , the use of poles can be of great help. They support weight distribution and prevent fatigue, especially on longer routes, as the body is loaded more evenly and carrying a backpack becomes more comfortable.

However, on easy, flat routes you should avoid using poles. By doing so, you train your balance and give your body the opportunity to move over more challenging terrain without poles.