Common mistakes when using trekking poles?

Trekking poles are powerful tools for hikers, offering improved stability, reduced joint impact, and increased endurance. However, many users fail to unlock their full potential due to easily avoidable mistakes. Incorrect technique can lead to fatigue, discomfort, or even injury. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trekker, refining your skills can transform your experience on the trail. Here are the most common errors and how to fix them.

1. Incorrect Pole Length
One of the most frequent mistakes is using poles set to the wrong length. On flat terrain, your elbows should form a 90-degree angle when the tips touch the ground. When ascending, shorten the poles to maintain efficiency and power. When descending, lengthen them to reduce strain on your knees and improve stability. Failing to adjust for terrain minimizes the poles’ benefits and can cause poor posture.

2. Misusing the Wrist Straps
Many hikers grip the handles tightly and ignore the straps, leading to sore hands and inefficient energy transfer. The correct method is to slide your hand up through the strap from below, then rest the strap across your palm and grip the handle. This allows you to push down through the strap rather than squeezing the handle, reducing grip fatigue and improving power.

3. Poor Rhythm and Timing
Planting your poles randomly or out of sync with your steps is a wasted opportunity. The optimal technique is the natural opposite-arm, opposite-leg rhythm: as your right foot steps forward, your left pole should plant, and vice versa. This synchronizes your movement, engages your core, and propels you forward efficiently. Breaking this rhythm reduces stability and increases energy expenditure.

4. Planting Poles Incorrectly
Where you plant the poles matters. On flat or uphill sections, the pole should contact the ground near your foot, not far ahead. On descents, place the poles slightly in front to act as brakes and stabilizers. Angling the pole tips backward during pushes maximizes propulsion. Planting poles too far forward can disrupt balance and rhythm.

5. Using Poles on Unsuitable Terrain
While poles are helpful in most situations, there are times when they may hinder more than help—such as on steep, rocky scrambles where free hands are needed for balance. Knowing when to stow your poles is as important as knowing how to use them.

6. Neglecting Maintenance
Failing to clean, dry, and inspect your poles after hikes can lead to malfunction. Grit and moisture can jam adjustable sections and damage locking mechanisms. Regular maintenance ensures reliability when you need it most.

By avoiding these common mistakes—adjusting pole length correctly, using straps properly, maintaining good rhythm, and planting poles strategically—you’ll enhance stability, conserve energy, and protect your joints. Practice these techniques to make the most of your trekking poles and elevate your hiking experience.