How to Buy Trekking Poles as a Gift

Show your support for a hiker or backpacker by buying him or her a good pair of trekking poles to take the load off the knees!

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Snow Baskets
• Tip Protectors
• Trekking Poles

1. Shop at a large, reputable outdoor gear store - a place where the sales staff is likely to be knowledgeable and helpful, and one that has a reasonable guarantee and return policy.
2. Expect to spend anywhere from $60 to over $100 on quality trekking poles.
3. Look for poles that feature shock-absorption. They're more expensive but easier on the wrists.
4. Look for adjustability: Pole length should adjust easily so that you can shorten or lengthen the poles according to terrain, and so that people of different heights can use them.
5. Determine that the poles come with snow baskets if the recipient will be using them for snowshoeing or telemarking.
6. Make sure the poles are returnable or exchangeable in case adjustments need to be made.