1. T-handle and straight handle
T-handle, relatively short, only one is needed. If the legs and feet are not agile, you can choose it, and the T-handle can provide relatively stable support.
Straight handle, two are needed, one for each hand. If you are a healthy person, it is recommended to use two straight handles, which can improve balance and walking assistance.2. Adjustable vs Non Adjustable
In general, it is recommended to choose hiking poles with adjustable length to provide better stability and grip when going up and down hills. And the storage volume is smaller, making it easy to fit into a backpack.
3. Shock absorption. A hiking stick with shock absorption function helps with wrist impact and is of great help to people with injuries. But the shock absorber is a bit heavy, which will increase the weight of the entire hiking pole. And the shock absorber will release force, reducing the stability of the hiking pole.
4. Weight.
The weight of the hiking stick is crucial during long hikes. Due to waving your arm at least tens of thousands of times a day, choosing an ultra light hiking stick can significantly reduce fatigue.
5. Wristband.
Most hiking poles use polyester fiber as the wristband, which is cheap and quick drying due to water absorption, but prone to wear and tear. Nylon wristbands are light and sturdy, but they can be worn on the hands. Some hiking poles also choose leather wristbands, which are relatively expensive but skin friendly and durable, and will not absorb water or sweat.
6. Material.
Aluminum alloy: The weight is mostly above 200g, and aluminum alloy hiking poles that are too light must reduce the thickness of the pipe wall.
Carbon fiber: The mass is mostly below 180g, lighter than aluminum alloy, but also more expensive. Carbon fiber has good elasticity, but under strong lateral forces, it may break directly
7.
Grip handle
Plastic/rubber grip: Rubber material grip is wear-resistant and has good anti slip performance, suitable for various environments. Its advantages lie in durability and anti slip, suitable for use in various weather conditions, and is a relatively neutral choice
Foaming material: foam grip is light and comfortable, suitable for short hiking. Its advantages lie in its lightweight and comfort, suitable for short distance hiking or daily use
Cork: Cork has a good hand feel and excellent sweat absorption properties, making it suitable for long-term use, especially in humid or dry environments. It is recommended due to its sweat absorption properties. However, most of the materials used to make hiking poles are recycled cork, which reduces the hand feel and becomes heavier.8.Length
When making a purchase, choose the appropriate length of hiking poles based on your own height. There are pictures above specifically introducing the length that is suitable for one's height. When using, follow the double 90 degree principle: use a hiking stick of the exact length, with the forearm and upper arm at a 90 degree angle, and the hiking stick and forearm also at a 90 degree angle. Due to the fact that the hiking stick has always been in front of us as a supporting force, we need to adjust it flexibly according to our own situation when going up and down hills. Shorten uphill by 5-10 centimeters and extend downhill by 5-10 centimeters.