If you’re like most hikers, you want to make sure you have the right gear for the job. And if you’re going to be hiking with poles, you’ll want to ensure they’re the right size.
But what size hiking poles are best for optimal comfort?
There is no definitive answer when it comes to the perfect size for trekking poles. It depends on a variety of factors, such as your height, the type of terrain you’ll be hiking on, and your personal preferences.
However, there are a few general guidelines that can help you choose the right size poles for your next hike.
In this article, we will take you through each of them so that you can find the perfect poles for your next hiking trip – helping you to make it up those steep inclines and rocky terrain.
What Size Hiking Poles for Optimal Comfort?
If you want to use trekking poles for exercise, make sure they are the right size so your elbows are at a 90-degree bend.
If you’re hiking on uneven terrain, you’ll want to adjust the length of your poles so that they can help you maintain your balance.
And finally, if you’re hiking in snow or on icy trails, you may want to use longer poles for stability.
Now that you know the general guidelines for choosing the right size trekking poles, let’s take a more detailed look at each factor.
Your Height
One of the most important factors in choosing the right size hiking poles is your height.
If you’re using trekking poles that are too short, you won’t be able to get the full benefit from them. On the other hand, if your hiking poles are too long, you may find them difficult to control.
The general rule of thumb is to choose hiking poles that are about 10 centimeters (or four inches) shorter than your height.
So, if you’re 1.80 meters (or five feet and nine inches) tall, you would want trekking poles that are 1.70 meters (or five feet and seven inches) long.
Of course, this is just a general guideline. You may find that you prefer trekking poles that are a bit shorter or longer than this, depending on your hiking style and the terrain you’ll be hiking on.
The Type of Terrain
Another important factor to consider when choosing the right size hiking poles is the type of terrain you’ll be hiking on.
If you’re hiking on relatively even ground, you won’t need as much support from your trekking poles. In this case, shorter poles may be more comfortable to use.
On the other hand, if you’re hiking on uneven terrain, longer poles may be more helpful in maintaining your balance.
And if you’re hiking in snow or on icy trails, longer poles can provide more stability.
So, when choosing the right size trekking poles, be sure to take the type of terrain you’ll be hiking on into account.
Uphill, Downhill, and Contouring
Another factor that can affect the size of the trekking poles you need is the type of hiking you’ll be doing.
If you’re mostly walking uphill, shorter poles may be more comfortable to use. This is because they won’t get in the way as much when you’re taking long strides.
On the other hand, if you’re hiking downhill, longer walking sticks may provide more support and stability.
And if you’re hiking along contours (side-to-side), you may want to use trekking poles that are adjustable so that you can adjust the length depending on the terrain.
Flat ground tends to mean that most poles that are a fixed length will do the job just fine. The trekking pole length doesn’t tend to matter as much when you are on flat ground so long as the pole tips are doing their job keeping you steady.
Materials
The material your hiking poles are made of can also affect the size you need.
For example, if you’re using carbon fiber hiking poles, you may want to choose shorter poles. This is because carbon fiber poles are lighter and easier to control than other materials, such as aluminum.
On the other hand, if you’re using hiking poles made of heavier materials, such as aluminum poles, you may find that longer poles are more comfortable to use, and the load bearing pressure is better.
Of course, the material of your hiking poles is just one factor to consider. You’ll also want to take into account your personal preferences and the type of terrain you’ll be hiking on.
Your Personal Preference
Finally, when choosing the right size trekking poles, it’s important to consider your personal preferences.
Some hikers prefer shorter poles because they’re easier to control. Others prefer longer poles because they provide more support.
It’s really up to you to decide what size trekking poles will be best for your needs. experiment with different lengths and see what you prefer.
What About Adjustable Hiking Poles?
If you’re still not sure what size trekking poles to choose, you may want to consider adjustable hiking poles.
These are hiking poles that can be adjusted to different lengths, so you can change the length depending on the terrain or your personal preferences.
Adjustable hiking poles are a great option if you’re hiking in different types of terrain or if you want the ability to change the length of your trekking poles on the go.
How Do Adjustable Hiking Poles Work?
Most adjustable trekking poles have three sections that can be adjusted to different lengths. This makes them a more versatile option than the standard fixed-length poles.
To adjust the length of the pole, you simply need to twist or push a button to loosen the sections, then pull the sections apart or push them together to the desired length.
Once you’ve found the perfect length, you can then tighten the sections back up so that the pole doesn’t collapse while you’re hiking.
Some adjustable trekking poles also have telescoping handles, which can be extended or retracted to change the overall length of the pole.
Telescoping handles are usually adjusted by twisting or pushing a button, and then pulling or pushing the handle to the desired length.
Once you’ve found the perfect length, you can then twist or push the button again to lock the handle in place.
Why Use Adjustable Hiking Poles?
There are a few advantages to using adjustable trekking poles.
First, they’re incredibly versatile. You can use them in a variety of different terrain, and you can change the length of the poles to suit your needs on the go.
Being able to play with the trekking pole length will save you money in the long-run because it is suitable for walking uphill, downhill trekking, and promises the correct height for any situation.
Second, they’re perfect for hiking with friends or family members who are different heights. You can simply adjust the length of the poles to suit each person’s height.
And finally, adjustable poles are great for traveling. If you’re hiking in different countries with different terrain, you can easily adjust the length of your poles to suit the terrain.
Overall, adjustable poles are a great option for hikers who want versatile and convenient walking poles.
What Can Impact the Comfort of Hiking Poles?
In addition to the size of walking poles, there are a few other factors that can impact the comfort of hiking poles.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors.
The Way the Grips are Designed
The design of the hiking pole grips can play a big role in comfort. Some hiking poles have ergonomic grips that fit naturally in your hand, while others have more traditional designs.
The Type of Material Used
The material of the hiking pole can also affect comfort. Some hiking poles are made with softer materials that are more comfortable to grip, while others are made with harder materials that provide a more secure grip.
Using the Wrist Straps Correctly
If your hiking poles come with wrist straps, it’s important to use them correctly. Wrist straps help to take some of the weight off your hands, which can make hiking poles more comfortable to use.
To use wrist straps correctly, simply loop the strap around your wrist and then hold onto the hiking pole grip. The hiking pole should be resting in the palm of your hand, with your fingers wrapped around the grip.
Your wrist should be in line with the hiking pole, and the strap should be snug but not too tight.
If the strap is too loose, the hiking pole could slip out of your hand. And if the strap is too tight, it could cut off circulation to your hand.
Adjusting the Length of the Pole
As we mentioned earlier, the pole length can also impact comfort. If the hiking pole is too long, it can be difficult to control. And if the hiking pole is too short, you may have to stoop to use it, which can be uncomfortable.
Trekking pole height is very important, and the length of walking poles varies according to the type that you buy.
Shock Absorbing Tech
Some hiking poles come with shock-absorbing technology that helps to absorb some of the impact when the hiking pole hits the ground. This can make hiking poles more comfortable to use, especially on rugged terrain.
Foam Handles
Some hiking poles have foam handles that are more comfortable to grip than the grips on traditional hiking sticks.
Comfort is key when it comes to hiking poles. And by choosing the right size hiking poles and adjusting them to fit your needs, you can ensure a comfortable hiking experience.
To Conclude
There is no definitive answer when it comes to the perfect size for hiking poles. It depends on a variety of factors, such as your height, the type of terrain you’ll be hiking on, and your personal preferences.
However, there are a few general guidelines that can help you choose the best trekking pole height for your next hike.
Using the advice we have given in this guide, you should be able to find the perfect poles for your next expedition. We hope you have a fantastic hike and manage to make the most of your new equipment.
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