How to Use Hiking Poles

Hiking poles are used to take the pressure off your back and legs when hiking. They are especially useful on steep climbs and when carrying a backpack. You can put your weight forward and help push yourself upwards with your arms. Follow these steps to learn how to use hiking poles.

Instructions

1. Adjust the hiking poles for your height. When holding the hiking poles, your arms should form a 90 degree angle at the elbow.

2. Insert your hands into the loops on the hiking poles. Slip your hands upwards into the loop then grasp the handle. The loops prevent your from losing your hiking pole should you slip and fall.

3. Extend your arms outwards and use the hiking pole to pull yourself forward, similar to cross country skiing. This will allow you to hike longer without becoming tired as quickly.

4. Balance yourself with your hiking poles if you are crossing rocky or rugged terrain. If you feel yourself starting to stumble, plant your hiking pole in the ground and use it to catch yourself.

5. Spread your body weight away from your legs when crossing soft ground. Place snow baskets on the bottom of the hiking poles to prevent the likelihood of sinking in snow and marshy ground. The wider the basket the less likely you will sink.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy hiking poles with semi-sharp spikes for hiking in the back country. They are useful on slippery ground such as ice or steep declines, but be careful not to stab your or your partner's feet.