Ski poles and hiking poles are both used for outdoor sports, but they have different purposes for the two. Many people who ski or hike use both types of poles, but one type is more suited to that activity than the other.
Poles can be made from a variety of materials or combinations thereof. Aluminum is a metal that many common trekking and cross-country skiing poles are made from and is lightweight, strong, rust-resistant, yet not very durable. Fiberglass carbon composite fibers are also becoming popular as materials for trekking and ski pole construction as well as being lightweight with high strength without any corrosion.
Different Types Of Poles
Ski Poles
The most common types of poles are usually telescopic or collapsible. Telescopic poles allow you to adjust the length between 36 and 75 inches, depending on your height. The downside to this is that you can lose the adjustment screw at times when walking or camping and it’s fairly difficult to put back in place. Additionally, telescopic poles tend to be much longer than hiking poles, so bring a decent backpack or fanny pack if you plan on traveling on foot with them. Another downside is that some people don’t like the idea of getting tangled up with a pole when doing snow sports and these can get in the way while you’re skiing or tubing, these often have baskets for carrying gear on either end.
Hiking Poles
Hiking poles are almost always telescopic while collapsible (optional) can be used. They are usually made from aluminum or fiberglass and are extremely lightweight. Some telescopic hiking poles can also be adjusted to a length between 26 and 33 inches, depending on your height. The downside is that the length might not always be as long as you’d like and some people don’t want to carry an extra pole when hiking in cooler weather. Furthermore, there’s no basket for carrying gear on the ends of these poles, so if that’s important to you then a telescopic pole might not be for you.
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles are made from various materials and usually have baskets at the end for carrying gear. They are typically much sturdier than hiking and skiing poles but not as lightweight as telescopic poles. The upside to trekking poles is they are far more adjustable poles than telescopic poles so you can adjust the length depending on your height. The downside to trekking poles is that when snow sports are involved then in some cases they can actually get in the way and limit your movement, especially if you are attempting downhill skiing or snowboarding. These also add a good amount of extra weight when used on backpacking trails that aren’t packed snow, which could be no fun if hiking on a rainy day.
Parts Of Hiking Pole
The parts of the hiking pole include the pole itself, basket, and shaft. Hiking poles have three types of baskets: the rubber grips basket, the anatomic basket, and the water bottle-tote basket. The disc-grip basket is a variation of a traditional basket that provides a grip for your hands and is typically used for sports like skiing or snowboarding. The anatomic basket is usually more comfortable to hold especially when using it to carry gear on longer trips while the water bottle-tote basket is ideal for carrying water bottles on shorter trips as well as allowing you to transport them all day without losing them in your backpack.
Hiking Pole Uses
Hiking poles are mainly used while walking on various terrains, both soft and hard. They can be used for a variety of activities such as hunting, fishing, or wildlife observation. Other uses include ice climbing, mountaineering, snow, and rock climbing.
Benefits Of Using Hiking Poles
The benefits of using hiking poles are numerous. Some of them include providing you with a stabilizer on uneven terrain, allowing greater aerobic efficiency while saving energy, reducing stress on your knees, helping you maintain your balance on uneven terrain, and allowing for proper posture when walking. Most importantly, they help you get more from the trail by reducing stress on your joints and providing a natural extension for pushing off during your stride. They can also help you lower your heart rate and improve endurance by increasing the depth and frequency of breathing. It’ll also reduce stress on the muscles because they aren’t being used to support the extra weight of the entire body as much during each step.
Parts Of Ski Pole
The parts of the ski pole include the pole itself, basket, and shaft. Ski poles have two types of baskets which include the disc-grip basket and the anatomic basket. The disc-grip basket is a variation of a traditional basket that provides a grip for your hands and is typically used for sports like skiing or snowboarding. The anatomic basket is usually more comfortable to hold especially when using it to carry gear on longer trips while the disc-grip baskets are ideal for carrying related equipment on shorter trips as well as allowing you to transport them all day without losing them in your hiking waist pack or backpack.
Ski Pole Uses
The main purpose of trekking ski poles is to provide better control and mobility when skiing or snowboarding. The weight distribution balance allows the user to use the pole for stability, downhill control, and carry gear on longer trips as well as during those times where the weather isn’t ideal for your chosen sport.
Benefits Of Using Ski Poles
Some of the benefits of using ski poles include providing better support when balancing, reducing stress on your knees, allowing for proper posture when walking and skiing, and increasing your speed. Ski poles also allow you to walk faster, up hills easier, and they stabilize you better on snow.
Parts Of Trekking Pole
The parts of the trekking pole include the pole itself, basket, and shaft. Trekking poles have two types of baskets: the disc-grip basket and the water bottle-tote basket. The disc-grip basket is a variation of a traditional basket that provides a grip for your hands and is typically used for sports like skiing or snowboarding. The water bottle-tote basket is ideal for carrying water bottles on shorter trips as well as allowing you to transport them all day without losing them in your backpack.
Trekking Pole Uses
The primary ways to use trekking poles are on either side while you’re hiking and backpacking: either as support or as extra weight reduction. Many people use trekking poles while skiing or snowboarding which is a major advantage over telescopic poles because their wide base and basket allow them to be held with one hand. The downside to this is that most people use these while skiing and snowboarding which isn’t the best for a good workout so this option might not be for everyone. The most common ways to use trekking poles areas support while you’re hiking or backpacking. This can help you stabilize yourself when walking uphill or downhill, making the hike much more enjoyable, while also providing better balance on the trail. Many people also like to use trekking poles as balance aids, which help you maintain your footing while climbing up steep inclines.
Benefits Of Using Trekking Poles
Some of the benefits of using trekking poles include helping you maintain your footing while in high footholds or when walking uphill, providing better stability when navigating steep slopes, and allowing you to move much faster than if you weren’t using them.
Pros Of Hiking Poles Vs Ski Poles
- Steep slopes and high steps don’t seem as tall
- It is easier to keep your balance while walking on flat, smooth terrain.
- It is easier to maintain your balance while walking on uneven terrain.
- It is easier to keep balance when crossing logs and slippery rocks.
- It is easier to maintain your balance when climbing up steep inclines.
- They are more lightweight, so it is easier to walk with them strapped onto your backpack for long periods of time.
- When walking uphill, they reduce the stress on knees and ankles.
- They can help you get more from the trail by reducing stress on joints and adding a natural extension for pushing off during each stride.
Cons Of Hiking Poles Vs Ski Poles
- When walking downhill, they can get in the way.
- When snow sports are involved, they can get in the way and limit your movement.
- They are not as effective in deep snow.
- They can Get Stuck in snow and mud.
- You cannot rest on a hiking pole like you can while on skis or walking downhill, but this also applies to ski poles.
- Depending on the length of the pole, they can get caught on rocks and branches while going through low shrubs.
Venturing into the great outdoors is a wonderful experience that everyone should savor. Walking sticks or hiking poles are used to provide a stabilizing effect while walking or hiking on uneven terrain. They help to improve the user’s safety and health while performing activities such as climbing, descending, trekking, and backpacking.
Types Of Poles For Different Types Of Terrain
1. Carbon Poles – These are good in the snow and on the rock as they are flexible and don’t get stuck.
2. Comfort Grip Poles – This feature provides added comfort for the long treks.
3. Anti-Shock Poles – These aid in overcoming obstacles that might cause a shock to your body, such as walking on a rocky trail for example.
4. Adjustable Shock Reducing Poles – These aid in overcoming obstacles that might cause a shock to your body, such as walking on a rocky trail.
5. Tech Flick Lock Poles -These poles have some seriously strong locks which can make adjustments easy, even while wearing gloves or hiking when it’s cold out!
6. Gel Poles – These have gel on the cork handle which will help your hands not to get sore when hiking or backpacking.
7. Folding Poles – These are good for traveling and shorter hikes.
8. Ultralight Poles – These are good for those who want to start hiking, but don’t like the weight of the standard hiking pole that’s over 1 lb.
9. Shock Absorbing Poles – These are good for those who want to start hiking, but don’t like the weight of the standard hiking pole that’s over 1 lb.
10. Snow Poles – This is a good option for those who enjoy winter sports like backcountry skiing and snowboarding.
3 Tips For Buying Hiking Poles
1. Look For Poles With A Strong Flange – This is the main part of the pole that allows you to use your poles to support your back. They should be strong enough to withstand heavy use.
2. Look For Poles That Are Adjustable – If you plan on enjoying hiking a lot, then make sure that the poles have backpack baskets and an adjustable length so you can adjust them when they get too long or when they are too short.
3. Look For Poles That Are Durable – When buying your first set of poles, you’ll want to make sure that they are durable enough to hold up through difficult hikes and rugged terrain, just like with most hiking boots.
Materials Used In Pole
Carbon Fiber:
Carbon fiber is a lightweight, strong material that is usually made into poles. Carbon fiber poles are ideal hiking poles because they are light, durable, and offer a lot of support. Many different types of carbon fiber have been used for poles by different brands.
Aluminum:
Aluminum poles are also commonly used by hikers and ultralight backpackers. These types of poles are similar to carbon fiber poles. Aluminum poles are sometimes more durable than carbon fiber and are lighter than steel.
Steel:
Steel is the heaviest type of material for hiking/hiking poles, but also the most durable. Many hikers flaunt their steel hiking poles as a symbol of strength and power. Even though they aren’t very light, steel hiking poles make for good camping equipment because they can last a long time while holding up well under any circumstances (i.e., rocky terrain).
Pole Tips
- Look For Poles With A Strong Flange – This is the main part of the pole that allows you to use your poles as support for your back. They should be strong enough to withstand heavy use.
- Look For Poles That Are Adjustable – If you plan on enjoying hiking a lot, then make sure that the poles have backpack baskets and an adjustable length so you can adjust them when they get too long or when they are too short.
- Look For Poles That Are Durable – When buying your first set of poles, you’ll want to make sure that they are durable enough to hold up through difficult hikes and rugged terrain, just like with most insulated or non-insulated hiking boots for example.
- Check For Warranty – If you plan on using your poles for more than just hiking or backpacking, then make sure that it comes with a comfortable grip that doesn’t hurt your hands.
Pole Uses
1. Hiking Poles- One of the most obvious purposes for hiking poles is to allow you to walk upright. Hiking poles also are used for traversing steep slopes and climbing stairs without hurting your knees.
2. Trekking Poles- These are used mainly by casual hikers and ultralight backpackers because they provide support while walking or hiking which is an important part of completing the hike safely, as well as helping to save energy during the hike itself.
3. Mountaineering Poles- These are lightweight and made out of carbon fiber, which is good for when you have a heavy backpack.
4. Extended Size Poles- This option is good if you’re taller than average, or have to hike in deeper snow.
5. Ski Poles- This is a good option for those who enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
Three-Section Poles
Immediately after the invention of the dog-pole, people began to make three-section sticks for use with their dogs, and they were of the same basic type which was used by Bass in his experiments. However, they were not originally designed for athletics. The first three-section poles were essentially long extensions of the human arm, meant to serve as a balancing pole when walking on slippery surfaces. Eventually, these poles became an aid in crossing difficult terrain and even became the foundation for mountain climbing technology.
Pole Parts
1. Pole – This is the main part of the pole that allows you to use your poles as support for your back. They should be strong enough to withstand heavy use.
2. Bag – This is a pocket in the handle that allows you to carry more things on your hikes such as snacks, extra clothes, and even water.
3. Grip- The part where your hands grip onto the pole without feeling like it is slipping out of your hand when using a pole for support or weight reduction purposes.
4. Flange – This is the main part of the pole that allows you to use your poles as support for your back. They should be strong enough to withstand heavy use.
5. Baskets – This is the bottom part that has a wide base and holds things such as a water bottle or weight reduction bag. It also provides a good way to secure the pole onto your backpack for long hikes and treks.
6. Soft Grip – This is a fabric that is glued onto the pole that makes your hands comfortable when hiking. It will also help keep your poles from slipping out of your hand during tricky situations.
7. Pole Tips – These are the parts of the pole that make a downward impact on the ground and press into it when it touches, allowing you to use your poles as support for your back, or as weight reduction aids.
8. Lock- This is the part that locks onto the pole to secure it into a solid position so that it doesn’t spin around when traveling downhill.
9. Adjustable Length – These are good for those who enjoy hiking or backpacking and have a lot of different types of terrain to cover, or if you just want your poles to be in a certain length when you don’t need to use them. They also come in handy if they are adjustable enough so that they can be adjusted while holding on to them.
10. Grip Tape – This is a tape used in the handle that provides extra comfort for your hands and will also help to keep you from slipping out of your grip.
Summary
You probably didn’t know you could use hiking sticks for so many different things! When purchasing your first pair of poles, make sure that they are lightweight and strong enough to withstand difficult terrain. Hiking poles are often used by those who enjoy hiking and backpacking. The poles can be a great aid for making it up steep inclines, over difficult terrain, and helping to reduce the stress on your knees and ankles when walking downhill. Ski poles can come in handy for many different people because they are lightweight and easy to carry while backpacking or hiking. However, they are useful for different types of activities, including winter skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, climbing, and jumping rope.