There was a time, more than a decade ago, when I couldn’t understand why people used trekking poles. I thought they seemed unnecessary and cumbersome. But these days, I always pack my poles for a hike ...

Make your hike even more beneficial by adding trekking poles. Whether you’re looking to gain more stability, alleviate knee soreness or amp up your calorie burn, trekking poles are the perfect ...

A great pair of trekking poles will boost your comfort and stamina on the trail — and spare you from some post-hike aches and pains. Travel + Leisure / David Hattan Trekking poles are an important — ...

Tips on poles should be rubberized for use on concrete or asphalt and carbide for mountain trails. Wrist straps, to be effective, should be entered with the hand coming up through the loop as if it ...

In my early days of thru-hiking, I was vehemently against carrying trekking poles. I saw them as unnecessary, something that my parents or grandparents would use. In short, I regarded them as ...

Walking poles (also called trekking poles) can give you a major advantage when covering big miles with a heavy pack. This ...

Trekking poles are modern versions of staffs that date back to Moses for easing the way along difficult routes, catching your balance and prodding the occasional sheep along the way. Although no ...

Hiking poles aren’t just for older folks with cranky joints. A good pair of hiking poles is essential gear for the trail—just like hiking boots, hiking socks, hiking pants, and hiking packs. Not only ...

In 2002, on day eight of my first-ever thru hike of the Appalachian Trail, I descended to the Nantahala Outdoor Center at mile 138 with a deflated spirit, a crushingly heavy pack, shin splints, and ...