Skip to content
Camping Trip Gear logoCamping Trip Gear
Hiking

Trekking poles vs no poles: are poles worth it for hiking

Trekking poles vs no poles: poles help on steep, rough or slippery trails and with a heavy pack, but can get in the way on easy flat paths.

Karim Belkacem4 min read

A pair of trekking poles leaning against a rock beside a dirt trail
Image by It_was_a_pleasure from Pixabay

Verdict: poles are worth it for steep, rough or slippery trails, and for hikes with a heavy pack. On easy, flat paths, poles are optional and may feel like extra work. If you scramble with your hands, leave them stowed.

Which wins on

FactorPolesNo poles
Steep downhillTake load off kneesKnees take more
Steep uphillArms help pushLegs do it all
Balance on rough groundBetterFine for most
River crossingsExtra stabilityLess steady
Flat pathsCan feel like a choreEasier
Hands freeNoYes
Extra weightYes, smallNone

Pick poles if

  • Your trail goes up or down for a long way.
  • You carry a heavy pack, as on an overnight trip.
  • The ground is wet, loose or snowy.
  • You cross streams.
  • Your knees or balance would welcome help.

Many hikers report that poles take some load off their knees on long descents. That is owners' experience, not a medical promise. Ask a health professional about joint or balance concerns.

Pick no poles if

  • The path is flat and well made.
  • You prefer to keep your hands free for photos, snacks or a map.
  • The route has scrambles where you need your hands.
  • You want the lightest pack possible.

The rule that matters most: the steeper and more uneven the ground, the more poles help.

A hiker walking down a rocky slope using two poles
Poles help most on long downhill sectionsImage by cripi from Pixabay

How to use them

  1. Set the height so your elbow is at about a right angle when the tip is on the ground.
  2. Slip your hand up through the strap from below, then grip the handle.
  3. Swing opposite arm and leg, as in a natural walk.
  4. Lengthen them a little for downhill, shorten for uphill.
  5. Plant the poles ahead of you, not out to the side.

What goes wrong first

The wrist strap. A strap that is too tight or poorly set rubs and tires the wrist. Adjust it as the maker shows. Also, locks can slip, so check them before each descent.

A short caution

Do not use poles when you need both hands, such as on a steep scramble, or on exposed ground where a fall would be serious. Stow them on your pack first. Your feet matter as much as your poles. See hiking boots vs trail runners, and for packing, how to pack a hiking backpack.

Picking a pair

If you decide on poles, check these points.

  • Length. Adjustable poles suit most people and let you change length for hills.
  • Locks. Lever locks are easier to use with cold hands than twist locks.
  • Grips. Foam and cork feel good in warm weather. Rubber is fine in cold.
  • Weight. Lighter poles tire the arms less on a long day.
  • Tips. Carbide tips grip rock and ice. Add rubber caps for paths and floors.
  • Baskets. Small baskets stop the tip sinking in mud. Large ones help in snow.

Try them in a shop if you can. Pole height and grip feel are personal.

Getting used to poles

The first hour feels awkward for many people. Give it a few trips. Walk with a natural rhythm. Do not lean on the poles, because they should help your balance, not carry your whole weight.

Quick questions

Do I need two poles or one?

Two give more balance and spread the load. One is fine if you want a free hand.

Can I take poles on a plane?

Rules vary by airline and airport. Pack them in checked luggage unless the airline says otherwise.

Are carbon poles better than aluminium?

Carbon is lighter but can snap under side load. Aluminium bends. The right choice depends on use.

Are poles good for kids?

Short poles can help older kids. For small kids, a hand and a pace they enjoy work better.

More to read

Keep reading