Hiking poles can improve balance and share some of the effort, especially on ascents, descents or when carrying a heavy pack. They are useful when properly adjusted and used with a relaxed technique; they need not be essential on every trail.
Choose poles suited to your needs
Adjustable poles let you adapt their length to the terrain and stow them away when not in use. The choice between aluminium and carbon depends on your budget, the feel you prefer and the impact resistance you need. Above all, check the comfort of the grip, the reliability of the locking mechanism and the availability of baskets suited to the terrain.
Adjust the length correctly
On level ground, an elbow angle of around 90 degrees is a useful starting point. Shorten the poles slightly on ascents to avoid raising your shoulders; lengthen them a little on descents if it helps you maintain your balance. Test these adjustments gradually: the right length supports your stride without making you lean over.
Use wrist straps with care
The wrist-strap distributes pressure across your hand and means you do not have to grip the handle constantly. Pass your hand through from below, then close it around the grip. On terrain where a pole could become trapped, or during a tricky traverse, make sure you can release your hand quickly.
Poles are no substitute for reading the terrain
They do not eliminate fatigue or make a steep slope easy. Choose a route suited to your experience, footwear and pack weight: our guide to hiking footwear can help with this choice. Stow your poles when you need your hands free, and be considerate of others on narrow sections.
FAQ
Are poles useful on easy-going terrain?
Not always. They can make a long day more comfortable, but on a short, gentle trail, walking without poles may be enough.
Do you need a two-pole setup?
Two poles distribute the load symmetrically. A single pole can help in a pinch, but it has a greater effect on your movement and balance.
Use poles without losing focus on the terrain
Poles can improve comfort, but you also need to anticipate sections where your hands must remain free: rocks, roots, cables, short scrambles or terrain where a pole could become trapped. Stow them before the tricky section rather than trying to make a last-minute adjustment.
On descents, use them for light, steady support without throwing your full weight forwards. If fatigue makes your movements less precise, or the wrist straps prevent you from releasing your hands, slow down and reassess the route. The best technique is one that keeps you free-moving and alert.