Anyone tried trekking poles?

[Queen]

Yesterday I took my new knee for a spin on the local 1.5 mile beach boardwalk (only did about a half mile), also tried a short walk on the beach... what I'm finding is that there isn't a smooth level surface to walk on anywhere outside.  The wind, rain, sand, and sunshine tend to make things very weathered; as my future plans include walking and hiking on paths out in nature it seems like I should figure something out.

So, I'm thinking of trying some trekking poles.  I understand they can really help with balance and keeping pressure off knees, lower back, and hips.  Hoping they can help me move with a bit more confidence.

Anyone given them a go?

 

[Almost There]

I don't walk off of the paved sidewalk without them.

 My first pair was an elcheapo pair from W/M which did me for 5 years. The downside of the cheap ones was that they were difficult to adjust for height for me so they stayed the same length no matter what.

Last year I replaced them with a pair of Easton poles that have click lock height adjustment on them that really works.

When you're doing any amount of up or down - not little climbs but bigger ones it's best to adjust the length, longer for down, shorter for up.

Mine also come down to 24"+/- for packing in my luggage and pack for transport.

Studies have proven their worth for both the 'old and decrepid' (me)   and for saving strain on knees and backs as well as giving a better whole body workout when used properly.

Lots of You Tube videos on how to get best use out of them.

Highly recommended that you get yourself a set!

 

[Queen]

Thanks for the input, AT! Think I'll order this set and give them a go: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008CK5JHY?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

 

[Almost There]

Thanks for the input, AT!  Think I'll order this set and give them a go: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008CK5JHY?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

Before you put in the order, compare them to these:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XM0YGW8?psc=1

Both are flick locks which I recommend, but the weight is way different on them from what I can see.

If I'm reading the ones you linked to correctly, they weigh far too much.

The lighter the better, because you're going to be holding and moving them around a whole lot.

You might also want to think about ordering a second pair, if not now, then soon for your partner. It sounds like she could benefit from a pair as well.

 

[Queen]

I really wanted carbon fiber but they don't mix well with salt water per the manufacturer stuff I read.

My wife might get some in the future, but since she's still a runner she said she's not sure she needs them yet.

 

[Spaceman Spiff]

I've used trekking poles for 30+ years.  Takes weight off my legs, helps with balance, helps with rhythm and body mechanics when walking, helps ward off aggressive pooches, gives my upper body a workout.  I have a light weight, collapsible pair for wandering and a home made 'water pipe' pair for exercise walking.

 -- Spiff

 

[Queen]

Never ending considered the critter angle, excellent point, thanks!

 

[bigsallysmom]

I do a lot of hiking and have used collapsible trekking poles, old ski poles and a long replacement rake handle from home depot. I like the collapsible trekking poles when I'm on a side slope or when I'm going to be in a small vehicle. The ski poles won't collapse thereby taking up more space. But I don't have to worry about them collapsing when they shouldn't. The wooden staff is for mostly flat areas where I might be accosted by critters. However the wooden end doesn't do a good job of sticking on ice.
If you are in a ski area with a thrift store you can probably get ski poles for a couple of dollars.

 

[akrvbob]

Climbing hills up or down and they are essential!! Don't go without them!

However, on flat and level, they are a waste and I never use them.
Bob

 

[SoulRaven]

I like the ski poles. I add rubber tips with a quarter placed in the bottom so the point won't penetrate. Then if I want the pointed tips, I can just remove the rubber tips and stick them in my pocket. Very Handy.

 

[offroad]

You will hike twice as far. And your arms and torso will appreciate the balanced workout.

 

[Queen]

Can't wait for my poles to get here, not only for the confidence they'll help provide but also for the ability to walk longer!

 

[highdesertranger]

I have used a walking staff my whole life. just one though, I don't really understand the 2 thingy. mine is homemade. I use mine for snake protection mostly but it does come in handy for water crossings. highdesertranger

 

[Optimistic Paranoid]

I'd always assumed they were an afectation of the Birkenstock crowd.  But since a lot of you vouch for their usefulness, maybe I'll have to give them a try.

Regards
John

 

[Queen]

I'd always assumed they were an afectation of the Birkenstock crowd.  But since a lot of you vouch for their usefulness, maybe I'll have to give them a try.

Regards
John

I figure I'm going to look like a massive dork using them on the beach and boardwalk, but one of the joys of being older... I just don't care. 

 

[WheelEstate USA]

I figure I'm going to look like a massive dork using them on the beach and boardwalk, but one of the joys of being older... I just don't care. 

Gotta agree with, "I just don't care"
Besides, you got TWO sticks to wack 'em with 

 

[Queen]

Old lady ninja, that's me!!

 

[Optimistic Paranoid]

Old lady ninja, that's me!!

Well, if you REALLY want to thrash some uppity young whippersnapper with your cane, Look into http://www.canemasters.com/

Regards
John

 

[Spaceman Spiff]

I have used a walking staff my whole life.  just one though,  I don't really understand the 2 thingy...    highdesertranger

I was born with cross country skis on (mother was not happy   ), so using two poles is as natural as walking.  

I use two poles for when I want to take pressure off my knees, for balance & stability, for uneven terrain, when exercise walking, to help maintain a fast pace.  Two poles take a lot of weight off of my knees when walking down hill; I will lean on them when stepping down.

I use one pole when critter defense is a possibility, paved trail wandering, especially with 'the Munkee' (easier to manage dog leash).

No poles whenever I feel like it.

 -- Spiff

 

[offroad]

Poles make you look less threatening too. For some reason. Look more silly and you are not a threat. Yet they are more dangerous than your fists.