DIY Trekking Poles Shock Absorption Systems?

Trekking pole shock absorption systems can significantly reduce impact on joints and muscles during descent, but commercial anti-shock poles often come with premium price tags and complex mechanisms that can be difficult to repair in the field. This has led many outdoor enthusiasts to explore do-it-yourself solutions for adding shock absorption to their existing trekking poles. While these DIY approaches can provide some vibration damping and impact reduction, they require careful implementation to maintain safety and functionality.

Understanding Shock Absorption Principles

Before attempting any modifications, it's important to understand how shock absorption works in trekking poles. Commercial systems typically use internal springs or elastomeric components that compress under pressure, then gradually return to their original position. This controlled compression converts downward momentum into gentle recoil, reducing the impact transferred to your wrists, elbows, and shoulders. Effective shock absorption should smooth out impacts without making the poles feel unstable or unpredictable.

Method 1: Internal Spring Systems

The most sophisticated DIY approach involves installing internal spring mechanisms within adjustable poles:

Materials Needed:

• Compression springs (appropriate diameter for your poles)
• PVC or metal tubing for housing
• Epoxy or strong adhesive
• Basic tools for modification

Implementation:
Measure the internal diameter of your pole sections to select springs that fit snugly without binding. The spring should compress under typical hiking weight but not bottom out completely. Housing the spring in a tube prevents lateral movement that could affect pole stability. This method works best with two-section poles having wider internal diameters.

Method 2: External Elastomer Additions

For simpler implementation, external elastomeric components can provide basic shock absorption:

Materials Needed:

• Closed-cell foam padding
• Rubber washers or gaskets
• Bicycle inner tube strips
• Strong elastic bands

Implementation:
Create cushioning points at strategic locations, particularly between pole sections and at grip connections. Rubber washers can be installed between locking mechanisms and pole sections to create compressible interfaces. Wrapping sections with closed-cell foam or bicycle inner tube strips provides both shock absorption and improved grip.

Method 3: Modified Tip Systems

Some DIY enthusiasts focus on improving shock absorption at the point of impact:

Materials Needed:

• Replacement rubber tips
• Shock-absorbing materials (sorbothane, specialized rubbers)
• Adhesives suitable for outdoor use

Implementation:
Modify existing tips or create custom tips with enhanced damping properties. This can involve layering materials with different compression characteristics or creating composite tips that deform predictably under impact. The advantage of this approach is that it doesn't modify the pole structure itself.

Performance Considerations

DIY shock absorption systems present several performance challenges:

Weight Distribution: Added components can change the pole's balance, affecting swing weight and handling characteristics.

Durability Concerns: Homemade systems may not withstand the repeated impacts and environmental conditions that commercial products endure.

Consistency: Achieving equal shock absorption in both poles can be difficult with handmade systems.

Maintenance: DIY systems typically require more frequent inspection and maintenance than commercial products.

Safety Considerations

Safety should be the primary concern when modifying load-bearing equipment:

• Structural Integrity: Any modification must not compromise the pole's strength, particularly at critical stress points
• Locking Mechanism Reliability: Shock absorption should not affect the security of length adjustment systems
• Failure Modes: Consider how modified poles might fail and whether such failure could create hazardous situations
• Weight Capacity: Ensure modifications can handle your body weight plus pack weight with a safety margin

Testing and Validation

Before relying on modified poles in the backcountry, conduct thorough testing:

1. Progressive Load Testing: Gradually increase weight on the poles to identify failure points
2. Impact Testing: Simulate hiking impacts to assess performance
3. Field Testing: Use on increasingly difficult terrain to evaluate real-world performance
4. Durability Testing: Subject to repeated use to identify wear patterns

When to Avoid DIY Solutions

Certain situations warrant avoiding homemade shock absorption systems:

• Technical terrain where pole failure could be dangerous
• Expedition hiking where equipment reliability is critical
• When carrying heavy loads that increase stress on poles
• If you lack the technical skills to assess structural safety

Commercial Alternatives

For those who want shock absorption without DIY risks, several commercial options offer reliable performance:

Black Diamond Distance Z Poles: Feature built-in shock absorption with proven reliability
LEKI Micro Vario Carbon: Offers excellent damping with precision engineering
Komperdell Carbon Powerlock: Combines lightweight construction with effective shock absorption

Maintenance of DIY Systems

If you proceed with modifications, establish a rigorous maintenance routine:

• Inspect before each use for signs of wear or damage
• Test shock absorption regularly for consistency
• Carry repair materials for field fixes
• Have backup poles available for extended trips

Conclusion

DIY shock absorption systems can provide cost-effective customization for trekking poles, but they require careful implementation and ongoing maintenance. While basic external modifications offer some vibration damping, more complex internal systems approach commercial performance at the cost of increased complexity and potential reliability issues. For most hikers, commercial shock-absorbing poles represent the safest and most reliable option, but for those with technical skills and appropriate caution, carefully implemented DIY systems can provide satisfactory results for non-critical use. Regardless of approach, regular inspection and realistic performance expectations are essential for safety on the trail.