Walking & Trekking Poles

Walking & Trekking Poles: frequently asked questions

What length walking pole do I need?

With the tip on the ground beside your foot and your upper arm by your side, your elbow should bend to about 90 degrees. As a rough guide, multiply your height in centimetres by 0.68, giving about 115 cm for someone 170 cm tall. Folding poles come in fixed sizes, so choose the one closest to that figure, or the shorter if you're between sizes.

Aluminium or carbon trekking poles?

Aluminium poles are slightly heavier but tend to bend rather than snap if you catch one between rocks, and a bent section can sometimes be straightened. Carbon poles are lighter and absorb vibration, which you notice over long days, but can crack under a sharp sideways load. On rough hill paths many walkers prefer aluminium; on long-distance trails carbon saves weight.

Should I use one walking pole or two?

Two poles give a balanced rhythm, more stability on descents and stream crossings, and help push you uphill. One pole is handy on easy paths when you want a hand free for a map, camera or dog lead. Nordic walking always uses two poles, with glove-style straps that let you push back on every stride.

What is the difference between Nordic walking poles and trekking poles?

Nordic walking poles are usually fixed or lightly adjustable, with glove-style straps and angled rubber paws for pushing off on pavements and park paths. Trekking poles have simple wrist straps, a wider length range, baskets for mud and snow and carbide tips for grip on rock. Use Nordic poles for fitness walking on flat ground and trekking poles for hills and trails.