How to Fix Stuck Trekking Pole Sections?

There are few things more frustrating on the trail than your trusty trekking pole refusing to collapse or extend. Whether it's due to dirt, grit, moisture, or a bent section, a stuck pole can throw a wrench in your hike. Before you resort to brute force that could permanently damage your gear, try these systematic and safe methods to free those stubborn sections.

Understanding Why Poles Get Stuck

The first step is diagnosis. Most poles get stuck for a few common reasons:

• Dirt and Grime: Fine sand, mud, or organic matter can work its way into the mechanisms, acting like a gritty glue.
• Moisture Corrosion: If moisture gets inside an aluminum pole and sits, it can cause a white, crusty oxidation that effectively "welds" the sections together.
• Bent Section: A sharp impact can put a small, almost invisible bend in the lower section of a pole, making it impossible to slide past the internal locking mechanism.
• Overtightened Lock: A lever lock tightened far beyond its necessary point can press the outer sleeve out of round, creating a bind.

The Step-by-Step Fixing Process

Step 1: The Initial Clean
Wipe down the stuck joint to remove all external dirt. Submerging just the connection point in lukewarm water can help loosen superficial grime. Dry thoroughly.

Step 2: Apply Lubrication and Penetrant
For poles stuck by grit or light corrosion, a lubricant is your best friend.

• Soapy Water: A gentle, first-line option. Work a few drops of dish soap into the seam.
• Silicone Spray/Lubricant: The ideal choice for outdoor gear. It lubricates without degrading materials or attracting more dirt.
• Penetrating Oil (e.g., WD-40): Use this as a last resort for severe corrosion. Warning: It can break down plastics and leave an oily residue that attracts dirt later. If used, clean the pole thoroughly with soap and water afterward.

Apply your chosen lubricant generously to the seam and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to work its way down.

Step 3: The Twist and Pull
Never try to pull the sections straight apart. Instead, use a gentle but firm twisting motion while simultaneously pulling. The twisting helps break the bond of corrosion and grit. For better grip, use a rubber jar opener, a piece of rubber shelf liner, or wear rubber gloves.

Step 4: Apply Careful, Localized Heat (Advanced)
If lubrication fails, the issue may be a bent section or severe corrosion. Use extreme caution.

• Use a hairdryer on a high setting to heat the outer pole section for 30-60 seconds. Metal expands when heated. The goal is to get the outer section to expand slightly more than the inner one.
• NEVER use an open flame like a lighter or camp stove, as it can quickly damage the pole's temper and materials.
• Once warm, try the twisting motion again with rubber gloves.

What to Do If It’s Permanently Stuck

If all else fails, it may be a bent section. You might be able to see the bend by rolling the pole on a flat surface. In this case, continuing to force it can make it worse. Your best option is to contact the manufacturer's customer service; they often have specialized tools and may offer a repair or replacement.

Prevention is the Best Medicine

The easiest way to fix a stuck pole is to prevent it from happening:

1. Clean After Every Use: Wipe down each section before collapsing them.
2. Dry Thoroughly: Especially after hiking in rain or snow, extend the poles fully and let them air dry before storing them.
3. Store Uncollapsed: Store your poles either fully extended or with the locks loosened to prevent them from seizing over time.

By following these steps, you can safely recover your prized poles and get back to enjoying the trail with confidence. A little maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your gear is always ready for your next adventure.