Video: Basic techniques for using trekking poles

Below is a short, but helpful video from MountainZone.com that shows some of the basic techniques involved in using trekking poles and placing your feet while hiking. The video demonstrates that while climbing an incline you’ll want to take smaller steps and plant your hiking poles deeper into the ground. Conversely, when hiking downhill, you’ll want to extend your trekking poles ahead of you in order to stabilize your weight.

Knowing how to use hiking poles can also help protect you from injury. They can help support you if you trip or if your foot is caught in an awkward position.

Tips On Foot Placement For A Beginning Hiker -- powered by ExpertVillage.com

If you need, or if you’re thinking about purchasing a pair of trekking poles, check out a couple of options from Leki, the industry leader for trekking and hiking poles. My wife and I have used Leki poles for several years now and we both love them. In particular, we’ve found them to be extremely helpful for our knees when making long descents.

Super Makalu Ergometric Long AS Trekking Poles
Built for strength and reliability on even the most challenging terrain, LEKI's Super Makalu Ergometric Long AS trekking poles allow you to tackle any adventure with confidence. These poles feature an ergonomic design that garnered Backpacker Magazine Editors' Choice Update Award for 2006. The poles feature LEKI's Soft Antishock System that reduces stress on the joints, muscles and ligaments.

Incorporating a positive angle into the hand grips, Super Makalu Ergometric Long AS poles preserve a more neutral ergonomic position for your wrist and hand, allowing for comfort and precise tip placement. The exterior textured thermo-foam material also provides additional comfort and breathability.

LEKI also introduced its new Super Lock System with this pole which allows for quicker and easier adjustments, and is up to 60 times more secure than other locking systems. The carbide flex tip deflects up to 30 degrees without damaging the lower pole section. This reduces the risk of pole breakage if the pole should get caught between rocks or tree roots on the trail.

Trail Antishock Trekking Poles
Leki’s Trail Antishock Trekking Poles are new for 2008. This is an ideal option for entry-level or cost-conscious hikers and backpackers looking for reliable performance. Trail Antishock trekking poles feature LEKI's Triple Spring Antishock System that reduces stress on the joints, muscles and ligaments. An internal spring absorbs the impact each time the pole strikes the ground. LEKI Ergo Soft rubber grips offer a comfortable, confident handhold.

These poles also feature the LEKI Classic Adjustment System, allowing you to adjust the length of the poles while alternating between climbing and descending while out on the trail.

If you would like to see more information on these trekking poles, or any of the other trekking and hiking poles in our selection, please visit: The Smoky Mountain Day Hikers Store.


Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, hiking gear store, and more.