What is the correct trekking pole height for a 1.70m tall person?
If you stand 1.70 meters (approximately 5 feet 7 inches) tall and are shopping for or adjusting trekking poles, getting the height right is crucial for comfort, efficiency, and injury prevention. Too long, and your shoulders will ache; too short, and you’ll hunch over, defeating the purpose. So, what’s the correct length?
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The short answer
For a 1.70m person, the standard all‑purpose trekking pole length is 110–115 centimeters (43–45 inches). But the exact number depends on terrain, arm length, and personal biomechanics. Let’s break down how to find your ideal setting.
The 90° elbow rule (universal starting point)
Stand upright in flat shoes (or your hiking boots). Hold the pole vertically with the tip on the ground next to your foot. Grip the handle so your elbow bends at a 90‑degree angle (forearm parallel to the ground). For most 1.70m individuals, this yields a length of 110–112 cm.
Step‑by‑step measurement
- Wear your hiking boots (they add 2–3 cm of sole height).
- Hold the pole upside down (handle on the ground, tip up) – this is easier for measuring.
- Place your hand under the basket or tip – your elbow should be 90°.
- Alternatively, use this formula: Height (cm) × 0.66 = approximate pole length.170 cm × 0.66 = 112.2 cm. So 112 cm is an excellent starting point.
Adjust for terrain
Brazilian trails vary wildly, and you should change pole length accordingly:
- Flat or gentle uphill – Stick with your neutral 90° setting (110–112 cm).
- Steep uphill – Shorten poles by 5–10 cm. This allows you to plant closer to your body without raising your shoulders. For 1.70m, try 100–105 cm on climbs.
- Steep downhill – Lengthen poles by 5–10 cm. This keeps your elbows low, improving braking and balance. For descents, try 115–120 cm.
- Side‑hilling – Adjust each pole independently. The uphill pole shorter, downhill pole longer to keep your torso level.
Why correct height matters
Using the wrong length leads to:
- Shoulder and neck pain – Poles too long force you to shrug.
- Lower back strain – Poles too short make you lean forward.
- Reduced efficiency – You won’t transfer as much power to forward motion.
- Poor balance – Especially on slippery Atlantic Forest trails, wrong length can actually destabilize you.
Testing your setting
After adjusting, walk on flat ground for five minutes. Your elbows should swing naturally (approximately 90° at mid‑stride). There should be no gripping tension – your hand rests lightly on the strap. If you feel pressure in your wrists or thumbs, lengthen slightly.
One size does not fit all arms
People with the same height can have different arm‑to‑leg ratios. A person with shorter arms (relative to height) may need a slightly longer pole (115 cm) to achieve 90°. A person with long arms might prefer 107 cm. Trust the elbow angle, not just a number.
Quick reference for 1.70m (5'7")
- All‑purpose length – 110–115 cm
- Uphill – 100–105 cm
- Downhill – 115–120 cm
- For adjustable poles – Choose a model that spans at least 100–120 cm.
Final tip for Brazilian hikers
If you’re buying poles online, look for models with easy external flick locks (not twist locks) – they’re easier to adjust on muddy or humid trails. Mark your neutral 112 cm setting with a piece of tape, so you can quickly reset after terrain changes. With the right height, your 1.70m frame will move efficiently across the Chapada Diamantina, Serra do Mar, or any Brazilian winter trek.
