Trekking poles.... How many use them?

[eLightfoot]

Do most of you guys use trekking poles? I've never used them, do they make that much of a difference? What advantages to they give? assuming not using them to pitch a shelter.

 

[littlebuf]

there game changers with serious weight. i dont go with out them

 

[Muledeernv]

First year using them and I won't go with out them not only for hiking with load but they. Work for my sl3 tipi.

 

[Slim Jim]

I always use them. Really helps with the knees and balance but I'm 43.

 

[sab]

Another middle-aged trekking pole user here! My knees click and pop, and using poles really does minimize my end-of-day pain. I find them most helpful on descents.

Regards,
Scott

 

[bbrown]

It's basically 4 wheel drive - always a good thing!

 

[Ray]

When go up a steep hill poles allow you to become four legged and put your upper body into it.

Same for crossing rock slides.

Four legs are better than two.

 

[dirtytough]

I find the better shape I'm in the less I use them. Especially if just hiking in on a trail. Off trail they are great. Going up a steep hill they relieve some of the weight off your legs like mentioned. I have also used them as a bipod rifle hunting when I had no other good rest. I also use them for my cuben tarp.

Worth the money.

 

[Manosteel]

Started using them 2 seasons ago and now i always have them with me, even on moose hunts that are in thick northern timber with no mountains. they make a huge difference on heavy packs outs. in the mountains its like what others have said, it is as close to four wheel drive as you can get

 

[TEmbry]

I don't leave home without mine. Use them as the poles for my super tarp, and for the hike in and out. I pack them while hunting, but don't use them as I typically have bow in hand to be ready at any time.

 

[TRIPLE]

Always

 

[Huntr]

I use them when hauling meat, but don't really like them otherwise.

 

[MattB]

I generally carry them even if I do not use them. There are a few hunts (i.e. dall sheep) that I wouldn't want to do without them.

 

[kickemall]

Echo the above. If you want to try them out without buying expensive ones (which are worth the money) Costco has carbon fiber poles with lever locks for about thirty bucks that are pretty nice poles, especially for the money.

 

[AK Troutbum]

I wouldn't think of going hiking without them. I would sooner forget my hiking boots then my trekking poles.

 

[60x]

They are a game changer. I typically use a walking axe over a trekking pole as it suits my needs better.

 

[Backpack Hunter]

I use them as well. For tent poles as well as pack outs. As mentioned it's like 4 wheel drive for people.

 

[craitchky]

Best things I ever bought!

 

[6x6]

I have used them for a few years as well. Great for the initial hike in to set camp, and then if I knock one down, they are great with the weight on the hike out.

 

[JoshTX]

I use them every time I go out. It's hard to understand what a difference they make until you use them.