Hiking with or without poles? Using hiking poles correctly

Hiking with or without poles – camping vacations are a lot of fun and relaxation, but they also involve a lot of equipment – whether you’re in a camper or a roof tent.
In addition to the most important camping furniture and outdoor clothing, hiking poles are often also on the packing list.
But is hiking generally better with or without poles?
All the questions are answered here.
Back to the definition of hiking poles.

Advantages: Hiking poles are recommended for this

First of all, hiking poles are a useful aid when hiking on steep and uneven ground.
When used correctly, they protect the knee and ankle joints and take the strain off the leg muscles.
Hiking poles can also help you cross rivers, give you the necessary stability and greater surefootedness and promote an upright gait.

When used correctly, walking poles are the perfect companion on long excursions!

What speaks against the use of walking poles?

First and foremost, hiking with poles needs to be practised.
The correct technique and handling of the poles is the be-all and end-all. Even the best hiking poles cannot compensate for a lack of experience and surefootedness!
If poles are used incorrectly, this can lead to problems and impediments when hiking.
What’s more, hiking poles can quickly become jammed, especially on very difficult terrain.
Of course, hiking poles can sometimes even break, which is why you should never rely completely on them.
Some professionals also point out that hiking poles are rather unwieldy and disturb the normal sense of balance.
Hiking without poles is better for training your balance and exercising your muscles.
These aspects speak against hiking poles:

• Without the right technique, the use is cumbersome and dangerous
• Poles can tilt on uneven terrain
• Hiking poles can break through
• Sense of balance is not trained

Technique: How to use hiking poles correctly

To achieve a promising effect, you should always hold the walking poles close to your body.
On a straight surface, alternate the poles diagonally with your natural rhythm of movement.
Just like Nordic walking, but without any conscious effort.

Double-decker technology

The double pole technique is useful on uneven, steep terrain!
Here, the walking poles are moved forward synchronously and placed every other step.
This involves pushing upwards forcefully with both arms to ensure stability and relief.
The more pressure comes from the arms, the more the leg muscles are relieved.
This is how you use the double pole technique:

• Move the walking poles forward synchronously
• With every second step
• Push upwards forcefully with both arms

Descent technique

When descending, it is also advisable to use the double pole technique.
The poles should be set about 5 to 10 cm longer and supported as far down as possible.
Your upper arm muscles have a resilient effect due to the force exerted and enable efficient relief.
Always make sure you grip through the strap from below and take your hands completely out of the straps on very demanding terrain so that you have your hands free in case you fall.
This will help you descend:

• Using the double-decker technique
• Adjust poles 5 to 10 cm longer
• Support as far down as possible

If you have the right equipment, nothing stands in the way of an extensive hiking trip!

Conclusion: hiking poles yes or no?

Hiking poles are a useful aid for long hikes, provided they are used correctly!
As they are otherwise a nuisance and a hindrance, you should definitely learn how to use hiking poles properly beforehand.
Ultimately, everyone has to decide for themselves whether hiking poles are right for them.
Try out how to use the poles in a specialist store and then decide whether you want to use them for your excursion.
Either way, you should always cover longer distances without poles from time to time to train your sense of balance and your muscles.