Adjusting the Length on Trekking Poles

Trekking poles reduce fatigue during hikes.

Trekking poles reduce fatigue, increase stability, and increase the distance you can cover in one day. They reduce the load on your legs by the weight of your arms plus any downward force you put on the poles. Trekking poles come with two or three adjustable sections, and lock using locking levers or twist locks. Trekking poles often have a slight anti-shock spring action to reduce impact fatigue on your arms.

Instructions

1. Loosen the lower section of three-section poles by opening the locking lever or twisting the lower section clockwise (looking down the shaft toward the tip).

2. Adjust the lower section of three-section poles to just below the maximum limit and lock the section in place by closing the lock lever or twisting the section counter clockwise. Do this for both poles.

3. Loosen the middle section of three-part poles or the lower section of two-part poles by opening the locking lever or twisting the section clockwise.

4. Stand up and hold the pole normally with your arm bent at a 90-degree angle. Lock the section in place at this length by closing the lock lever or twisting the section counter-clockwise to tighten. Note the length of this section by observing the graduated markings on the section.

5. Adjust the other pole to the same length using the graduated markings on the section.

Tips & Warnings

• You may want to adjust the length an inch or two shorter for uphill hiking or an inch or two longer for downhill hiking. Some hikers suggest that using a longer pole by adjusting the pole to two or three inches below the armpit as a good compromise (backpacking.net/trekpole.html) for uphill and downhill hiking. Try different lengths to find one most comfortable for you.

References

• REI:How to Choose Trekking Poles (and Hiking Staffs)
• Backpacking.net:Trekking Poles