Does the staff at Ellis Brigham help adjust trekking poles to my height?

Yes, absolutely. Ellis Brigham is one of the UK's most respected outdoor retailers, and their staff are trained to provide a full, hands‑on fitting service for trekking poles. Whether you're buying your first pair or upgrading to a premium model, the team will take the time to adjust the poles to your height, explain the features, and ensure you leave the store with a pole that feels like an extension of your arm. In this guide, I'll explain exactly what to expect from an Ellis Brigham fitting, why the adjustment matters, and how to get the most out of your visit.

Why correct pole height matters

A trekking pole that is too long or too short can cause:

• Wrist strain: If the pole is too long, you'll be reaching up with each plant, which puts stress on your wrist and shoulder.
• Inefficient propulsion: If the pole is too short, you won't be able to push effectively, reducing the benefit of using poles.
• Poor posture: An incorrect length can cause you to lean forward or hunch, leading to back pain.

The "golden rule" for pole length is simple: when you stand upright with the pole tip on the floor, your elbow should be at approximately a 90° angle. This gives you the most efficient push and the most comfortable arm position. However, this is just the starting point—you'll also need to adjust the length for uphills (shorter) and downhills (longer). A good fitting session covers all of this.

What an Ellis Brigham fitting session includes

1. Height and arm measurement

The staff will start by asking about your height and may physically measure your arm length to get an accurate starting point. They'll then set the poles to the neutral length and have you hold them to check the angle.

2. Wrist strap adjustment

The wrist strap is a critical part of the fit. The staff will show you how to put your hand through the strap correctly (the "up‑through" method) so that the load is transferred through the back of your hand, not your fingers. This allows you to relax your grip and push efficiently. They'll adjust the strap length to suit your hand size.

3. Lock mechanism demonstration

Ellis Brigham stock poles with various locking systems—Leki's SpeedLock, Black Diamond's FlickLock, and twist‑locks. The staff will explain the differences and show you how to operate each one. They'll also demonstrate how to adjust the lock tension, so you can fine‑tune it later.

4. Grip material advice

Different grips suit different hands and climates. The staff will help you compare cork, foam, and rubber grips, explaining the pros and cons of each. You'll be able to hold the poles and feel which material is most comfortable.

5. Basket and tip selection

If you're planning to walk on specific terrain (e.g., deep peat bogs or rocky coastal paths), the staff can advise on the best baskets and tips for your needs. They may also recommend spare tips or baskets to carry.

6. Walk‑around test

Ellis Brigham stores are designed to allow you to walk around the shop floor with the poles, planting them and getting a feel for their weight and balance. The staff will watch your technique and suggest any further adjustments.

How to prepare for your Ellis Brigham visit

To get the best possible fitting, follow these tips:

1. Wear your hiking boots

The thickness of your boot sole affects the correct pole length. If you wear your walking boots, the staff can set the poles to the exact height you'll use on the trail. If you wear trainers, the length will be slightly different—always wear the boots you plan to hike in.

2. Bring your walking trousers

If you usually walk in specific trousers, wearing them can help with a more realistic feel, especially if they have a thicker fabric that affects arm movement.

3. Know your walking style

Think about the type of walking you do:

• Are you a day‑walkers or a multi‑day trekker?
• Do you walk on flat, gentle trails or steep, rocky fells?
• Do you have any joint issues?

The more information you give the staff, the more tailored their advice will be.

4. Take your time

Don't rush. Try several different models, even if you have a specific brand in mind. The staff are patient and will let you take as long as you need.

Does it cost anything?

The fitting service is free when you are purchasing a pair of poles. If you simply want advice or an adjustment on an existing pair, they will usually help you at no charge, as a gesture of good customer service—but this may vary by store, so it's always worth asking.

Ellis Brigham vs. other retailers

Compared to Cotswold Outdoor and Go Outdoors, Ellis Brigham offers a similarly high‑quality fitting service. Their staff are often very experienced walkers and climbers, and their stores are often located in walking hotspots (like the Lake District), so the advice is grounded in real‑world local knowledge. The product selection is slightly more curated, with a focus on premium brands, which may be an advantage if you're looking for high‑end poles.

What if you buy online?

If you purchase poles online from Ellis Brigham, you won't get the in‑store fitting, but you can still call or email their customer service for advice on sizing. Alternatively, you can bring your online purchase to a physical store for a free adjustment—just bring your proof of purchase.

The verdict

Yes, the staff at Ellis Brigham are trained and eager to help adjust trekking poles to your height. The fitting session is comprehensive, covering length, wrist straps, locks, grips, and baskets. It's a professional, personalised service that can make a significant difference to your walking comfort and efficiency. So, if you're near an Ellis Brigham store, drop in, take a few minutes to be fitted, and walk away with poles that are perfectly matched to your height, style, and terrain. Happy walking!