Hiking poles purchase and use of the whole strategy

I. Importance of hiking poles

II. Types of hiking poles

1. Material Classification:

• Aluminum alloy hiking poles: Relatively cheaper, sturdy and durable for most outdoor activities. However, the weight is heavier and less suitable for hikers who pursue lightweight.

• Carbon fiber hiking poles: Lightweight and strong, they are the first choice for those seeking lightweight gear. However, they are more expensive and relatively brittle, so you need to be more careful during use.

• Titanium hiking poles: Combining the advantages of aluminum alloy and carbon fiber, it is lighter in weight, stronger and more resistant to corrosion. But the price is also more expensive.

2. Classification of locking methods:

• External locking trekking poles: The locking force is strong and easy to adjust, suitable for use in harsh environments. However, the external locking mechanism is relatively large and may add some weight.

• Internal locking trekking poles: Simple appearance and light weight, suitable for hikers who pursue light weight. However, the locking strength is relatively small, and you need to check the locking status periodically during use.

3. Functional classification:

• Ordinary trekking poles: Mainly used to provide support and balance for most outdoor activities.

• Shock-absorbing trekking poles: With a shock absorbing system that reduces arm and shoulder vibration and improves walking comfort. But the shock absorbing system will add some weight and complexity.

• Folding trekking poles: Easy to carry and suitable for traveling and hiking activities. But the folded part may affect the strength and stability.

Third, the main points of the purchase of hiking poles

1. Length AdjustmentThe length of the trekking pole should be adjustable according to the height of the user and the terrain. Generally speaking, the length of the trekking pole should be such that when the user is standing, his/her arms hang down naturally and his/her wrists are parallel to the ground, then the length of the trekking pole is most suitable.

2. Grip comfort: The grip should be comfortable, non-slip and ergonomically designed. Common grip materials include rubber, cork and foam, etc. Different materials have their own advantages and disadvantages, so you can choose according to your personal preference.

3. Tip MaterialThe tip should be sharp, wear-resistant and able to provide a good grip on different terrains. Common tip materials include tungsten steel, stainless steel and aluminum alloy, etc. Tungsten steel tips are the sharpest and most durable, but they are also relatively expensive.

4. weights: If you are hiking or climbing over a long distance, weight is an important factor to consider. Generally speaking, carbon fiber trekking poles are the lightest, aluminum alloy trekking poles are heavier, and titanium trekking poles fall somewhere in between.

5. Brands and Prices: Choosing hiking poles of famous brands can guarantee the quality and after-sales service. But brand and price are not the only measure, you also need to choose according to your needs and budget.

IV. Use of hiking poles

1. Adjustment length: Adjust the length of your trekking poles to suit your height and the terrain, so that your arms hang down naturally and your wrists are parallel to the ground.

2. grip: The correct grip position is to hold the grip in the palm of the hand with the fingers naturally bent and the thumb resting on top of the grip. During walking, the arms should swing naturally and the trekking poles move in synchronization with the arms.

3. Tip Use: The tip of the staff should always be in contact with the ground to provide support and balance while walking. The use of the tips of the poles varies on different terrains. For example, on flat surfaces, the tip of the walking stick can be raised slightly to reduce resistance; on rough mountain paths, the tip of the walking stick should be inserted into the ground to increase stability.

4. How to use the uphill and downhill: When going uphill, trekking poles can provide extra support and reduce the burden on your legs. You can shorten the length of the poles so that your arms are at an angle to the ground, and push the poles forward to help your body climb upwards. When going downhill, the trekking poles can play a cushioning role to reduce the impact on the knees. You can adjust the length of the poles to make your arms perpendicular to the ground, and push backward to support the poles to control the descent speed of your body.

V. Care and maintenance of hiking poles

1. cleanse: After using your trekking poles, you should clean the poles and tips promptly to remove mud and dirt. You can rinse them with water and dry them with a dry cloth.

2. Check lock status: Regularly check the locking status of your trekking poles to ensure that they are securely locked and will not come loose. If you find that the locking is defective, it should be repaired or replaced in time.

3. Replacement of the tip of the staff: If the tips of your poles are badly worn, you should replace them in time to ensure the grip of your trekking poles.

4. leave in sb's care: When storing your trekking poles, you should keep them in a dry and ventilated place, avoiding direct sunlight and humid environments. You can shrink your trekking poles and put them into a special trekking pole bag for easy carrying and storage.