Is One Hiking Pole Enough?

Many first-time hikers aren’t convinced if hiking poles are necessary or even recommended. As a practical matter, the use of trekking poles when hiking is entirely optional and is contested by both proponents and critics. There are times when you can get by without a pair of hiking poles, but it’s not uncommon. You can use them, but if you chose to do so, many individuals find them to be an enjoyable part of their hiking experience.

The dilemma of whether or not to bring trekking poles is an interesting one. They aren’t a necessity in most conditions on the trail. In the end, it all comes down to personal taste and a lot of trying and failing.

So the question is, should I bring one or two trekking poles with me on an adventure? Having two trekking poles on hand can be really helpful if you’re hiking on slick, rocky terrain or if you need to cross rivers. It may be possible to get away with just one pole if the hike isn’t too difficult. The same hike could be done without poles by others. In the end, it all boils down to personal preference and the trail you’re on.

Using One Trekking Pole Vs Two

Many people use two trekking poles, although it’s not uncommon for individuals to merely use one. As a result, one side of your body will be worked out more than the other, which might lead to an imbalance. Nevertheless, a lot of hikers who just bring one pole use it for downhill parts and river crossings because of the added stability it provides.

It’s entirely up to you. One of the key advantages of using a single-pole over two is the reduction in overall weight. You’ve reduced the weight of your poles by half. If you’re only out for a brief walk, you might not notice the advantages. For a minimalist hike, a single-pole may be the best option.

Today’s hiking gears have improved immensely. Even the most convenient backpacks can come in handy. Without having to remove their packs, it allows hikers to store their poles. Makes life easier and eliminates the need to choose between one or two poles.

How Do You Use A Single Hiking Pole?

In order to direct yourself forward, you must actively activate your arm muscles. Insufficient attention is paid to proper pole placement, which involves additional effort yet does not result in the required forward propulsion.

When it comes to the length of pole you use, the same concepts apply, but the way your feet and arms sync up may be slightly different. You want an asymmetrical beat when you have two poles. With just one pole, though, this is no longer an issue, and you can use your right arm, for example, while also using your right leg.

Finally, two hands on one pole are an option. This can be used to assist you in climbing a steeper-than-average slope.

Trekking poles aren’t the only thing that can be done with hiking sticks. You can get a decent set of sticks for a reasonable price. Some hikers hunt for a hiking stick in nature before they begin their journey, while others do it right at the beginning. We’ll quickly go over the advantages and disadvantages of hiking sticks versus trekking poles so you can make an informed decision.

Pros of Hiking Poles:

The use of hiking poles is recommended for several reasons, one of which is the reduction of the stress placed on the feet, legs, knees, and back as a result of hiking for long periods of time. With the aid of trekking poles, you can distribute the weight of your body more evenly.

In addition, hiking poles can be used to:

• Helps protect your knees especially if you’re going downhill.
• When you’re hiking downhill, it speeds you up!
• hiking up a hill with more power and endurance
• To help you maintain your footing on unsteady terrain
• Helps strengthen arm, shoulder, and neck muscles.
• Become more upright while hiking by working on your posture.
• Helps improve back pain and breathing issues.
• Makes sure that your spine is well-supported.
• Increases stamina fends off lethargy.
• Provides both an upper- and lower-body workout to help you burn more calories.

Cons Of Hiking Poles:

• Incorrectly used hiking poles might be a menace rather than a support.
• People can trip over them, overload them on uneven terrain, or misuse them, causing damage to the surrounding region.
• hiking poles can be heavy. They not only add weight to your body but also extra arm movements to your already strenuous exercise.
• They relieve your knees and ankles but distribute the load throughout your body.
• It can get annoying at times as trekking poles occupy your hands, preventing you from getting water, snacks, or maps. They also get in the way and can’t be readily stowed.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts!

If you’re not sure which hiking poles are right for you, ask your respective salesperson for personalized guidance. As a bonus, hiking poles can be used for a variety of different purposes while out in nature. If you don’t have any extra poles for your tent or tarp shelter, you can utilise a pole as a replacement. To determine the depth of a river’s water or the depth of snow on the ground, use a pole. Poles with a camera attachment can be used as a monopod for taking photos. For those who want to use their poles as ski poles, several models come with add-on attachments too.

Ryan Anderson

Hey, I am the founder of Outside Origin! I love hiking in my spare time and have gone to various different hikes. You can check out our about us section to learn more about what our team and I do over at Outside Origin.