The Gear Shed

Walking Sticks

Trekking Poles, Walking Sticks, Hiking Poles… Same Thing

Walking sticks. Trekking poles. Hiking poles. Mobility extensions. Adult ski poles without skis.

Whatever you call them, they are the same tool.

They are walking assistants.

Not because you cannot walk. But because sometimes walking would appreciate a little help.

There are two types of people in the outdoors.

Those who use trekking poles.

And those who used to make fun of them.

For years, I proudly stood in the second category.

In my mind, no able bodied adult needed trekking poles. I had two functional legs. I was not 87. I was not climbing Everest. Trekking poles were for people who wear socks with sandals, color coordinate their rain gear, and use the word trek as a verb.

Then I borrowed a pair.

Halfway down a long descent of loose rock, I was forced to confront the uncomfortable truth.

I had been completely wrong.

Not slightly wrong.

Not partially wrong.

Historically wrong.

With poles in hand, I could descend without feeling like my kneecaps were in a formal exit interview with HR, ranting that my pride had created a hostile work environment.

That was the moment I became a believer.

Why Trekking Poles Matter for Hiking and Hunting

Trekking poles turn you from a two legged creature into a four legged one.

Four legged systems generally maintain higher workplace safety standards.

I have never seen my dog mismanage a sidewalk. However, I have conducted multiple unscheduled, up close concrete surface audits using body parts that were not on the approved contact list.

Stability on Difficult Terrain

Poles add two additional points of contact with the ground. That matters:

● On scree

● In mud

● In snow

● Crossing deadfall

● Side hilling across slopes that look like they were designed to test your life insurance policy

It matters when your pack is heavy.

It matters when you are tired.

It matters when one misstep could trigger a full systems failure, a lengthy diagnostic process, and a painfully slow reboot on the way back to HQ.

Reduced Joint Impact

Trekking poles distribute load and reduce strain on knees during descents. Research shows they significantly reduce joint impact over long distances.

I did not need research.

My knees had already initiated a formal internal investigation, documented repeat violations, and escalated the matter to upper management.

Increased Endurance

Poles engage your upper body on climbs, improve posture, and create rhythm. Instead of leaving your legs to absorb the consequences of poor executive decision making, you spread the workload across your entire business.

The result is simple.

You move farther.

With less fatigue.

With fewer emergency meetings with gravity.

The Downsides of Trekking Poles

Let’s be honest.

They weigh something.

They occupy your hands.

They can get tangled in brush.

And yes, you will occasionally stab a rock loudly enough to alert wildlife in the next zip code.

No gear is perfect.

But here is the part most people miss.

Trekking Poles as Multi Use Tools

Two poles and a little imagination replace other gear.

● Cross them for a shooting rest

● Brace them to steady binoculars

● Anchor tarps

● Reinforce tents in wind

● Probe snow depth

● Test stream crossings

● Check mud before stepping into something that looks shallow but is not

If your trekking poles replace a bipod or reduce your need for a tripod on certain hunts, the weight equation shifts.

A few ounces of pole may offset a pound of gear left at home.

That is not added weight.

That is strategic consolidation.

Your knees approve.

Your back approves.

Upper management approves.

Types of Trekking Poles and Walking Sticks

1. Pole Material: Aluminum vs Carbon vs Wood

Aluminum Trekking Poles

Best for durability and value.

Pros

● Strong

● Affordable

● Bend before breaking

Cons

● Heavier than carbon

● More vibration

Great for hunters or hikers who are hard on gear.

Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles

Best for lightweight performance.

Pros

● Lighter

● Absorb shock

● Feel responsive

Cons

● More expensive

● Can snap under extreme stress

Ideal for long mileage and weight conscious hikers.

Wooden Walking Staff

The Gandalf Division.

Pros

● Free if responsibly sourced

● Strong

● Timeless

● Makes you feel wiser than you are

Cons

● Not adjustable

● Heavier

● Bulkier

A hardwood staff works. It is simple and dependable.

It also doubles as a boredom management device during your union sanctioned 15 minute break at camp. A good stick naturally invites whittling.

Just do not get carried away.

There is a fine line between “adding character” and slowly transforming your primary stability tool into an oversized toothpick.

If you whittle aggressively enough, you will need to restart the entire wizard apprenticeship program.

2. Fixed vs Collapsible Trekking Poles

Fixed Length

● Strong

● Simple

● Fewer moving parts

Best for traditionalists or wooden staff enthusiasts.

Telescoping

● Adjustable for uphill and downhill

● Packs down smaller

● Uses adjustable flip or twist locks

Flip locks tend to be more reliable over time.

Z Style Folding Poles

● Extremely compact

● Lightweight

● Quick to deploy

Popular for trail runners and minimalist hikers.

3. Grip Material

Cork

● Molds to your hand

● Manages sweat well

● Comfortable long term

Foam

● Lightweight

● Soft

● Absorbs moisture

Hard Plastic

● Durable

● Typically found on poles that regret existing

Grip comfort matters. You will hold these for hours.

4. Tips and Baskets

Carbide Tips

● Bite into rock and ice

● Durable

Rubber Tips

● Quieter

● Better for pavement

Baskets

● Small for dirt and rock

● Large snow baskets prevent sinking

Choose based on terrain and season.

How to Choose the Right Trekking Poles for You

Ask yourself:

● How far do I hike?

● How heavy is my pack?

● Am I prioritizing durability or weight savings?

● Will I use them year round?

● Do I want them to double as a shooting rest?

Fit matters.

With the tip on the ground, your elbow should sit near a 90 degree angle. Adjustable poles let you shorten for climbs and lengthen for descents.

Straps are not decoration. When used properly, they transfer load to your wrists and reduce grip fatigue.

Lock mechanisms matter. Reliability beats gimmicks.

Final Thoughts on Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are not glamorous.

They are not exciting.

They are useful.

They improve balance.

Reduce joint strain.

Increase endurance.

Replace other gear.

Extend your range.

And perhaps most importantly, they dramatically reduce the number of unscheduled gravity audits you are forced to conduct each season.

I once believed no able bodied adult needed walking sticks.

Now I consider them risk management equipment.

As always, good gear is useful, not essential. It does not make or break the adventure. It just gives you fewer reasons to complain about it later.

And fewer reasons to be on a first name basis with HR.