The poles we used: www.trekitt.co.uk/equipment/walking-poles-ice-axes/black-diamond-unisex-trail-pole-pair-picante__37266 Shop our entire range of poles: www.trekitt.co.uk/equipment/poles--and--axes
I tried poles for the first time yesterday on a steep trail. WOW! What a huge difference they made! So much more speed and stability. Not to mention less knee pain and a better upper body workout as well. Can't believe it took me this long to try them!
Poles save your knees when walking down a mountain, and provide stability against slipping on rubble when on a gradient. They are a godsend for older hikers like me.
I hate trekking poles and advise strongly against them. They prevent the body from moving or flexing correctly, prevent building muscle strength in key areas, and destroy natural balance. The longer that you use them, the weaker becomes the muscle and tendon strength until you're totally reliant on them. It's a very unnatural way to walk or climb and are certainly not needed for negotiating a variety of different terrains at any age.
Agree, for a 60 year old, I use them going down Arizona mountains. They’ve saved me from very nasty falls several times. I don’t use them going up hills, as I want to build balance in my leg muscles.
I am a huge fan of poles. My back is so bad with pain that I cannot walk for more than 20 mins max without pain. BUT with poles I can go all day. After years of walking shorter and shorter distances I am now back to all day treks. They are a better pain relief for my back than codiene. I am not being overly dramatic when I say that. As Paul says, you must get your technique right. Practice on the level then just see how far you can go.
Used to be a bit sceptical about the benefits of trekking poles in my youth. As i get older and less agile or supple, i’ve learnt better and have come to rely on my well used and abused, but now indispensable, Leki Sherpa XL/XTG Aluminium alloy poles. Really instructive video yet again. Keep up the great work guys. Best regards.
Dude, thanks for 6:16 explaining the straps. The product listing didn't explain this, nor could salespeople at the trekking store I bought my second pair explain what they were for, so I simply took them off. I thought to myself, "I'm not going to accidentally drop these, and even if I ever do I can simply pick them up again and move on. What do I need these stupid straps for?" So I removed them. I'll have to see if I can find them again, and try out your method. I haven't experienced any tendonitis though, and I can say that using poles without the straps has improved my grip strength. And I also find not having them more convenient for when I want to use my hands for other things. Still, I'd like to give your method a try and look forward to doing that soon! Well done on the whole video, especially 1:54 explaining the benefits. My boss was making fun of me for my poles yesterday, asking if I had skied to work (but what if I had? That would also be cool...). I live in Finland, and thought that so-called "Nordic walking" was enough of a thing here that I wouldn't need to explain it to him. I recently walked the West Highland Way and now I'm hooked on poles, as I like how they incorporate my upper body, and also having the extra points of contact, especially with the ice around here this time of year.
Glad to hear you're getting on well with your poles. Let us know how you find using them with the straps (if you find them!), we think the straps are a useful addition, but your mileage may vary. Living in Finland we would expect you to be much more likely to have actually skied to work...
I'm in Michigan in the States, but your videos have grabbed my attention! The ethos of UK outdoor enthusiasm and the way you explain the gear is lacking in the States, where "outdoor clothing" is more and more just a Gucci Bag with a North Face logo slapped on it. For those of us that want to buy for quality and use the gear while being nerdy about the small quirks, your channel hits that right on the head. Americans ALL lead with marketing and vanity and the jacket is just an afterthought.
Kagan - as a Brit, a hiker and a wild camper, your post has made me warm to Americans... and you have ALL those great nature reserves! (I know what you mean about North Face tho - asides from their Summit series, they're just a fashion brand. I have the Mountain equipment jacket Harry is wearing.
I bought my first set of Nordic Walking Poll a month ago and I love them. They allow me to work out 90% of my body, increase my pace, reduce stress on my back/hips/knees and get more out of my walk.
New to walking poles - this is the best video I've seen - you make it very clear and I'm confident I'll soon be used to them - longish distance walker, almost 78 years old and suffer from lower back pain because of posture collapsing after 20km! Should do better now - thank you very much!
From Canada Just got a set of poles. Wish I had got them before Can’t wait to get over to the UK, my favourite destination, and do some serious walking and hiking. All the best from the colony. Really enjoyed it.
I’ve just gotten in to walking for my health at 68, and I find Treking poles allow me to increase my duration and distances by at least 50%. Picked up a couple of tips here I will try.
Great video. I've only got back into hill walking in the last year or so, and my knees are not what they used to be! I'd struggle to get up and down now without my poles - especially downhill when my knees take an absolute hammering!
Probably the best piece of outdoor gear I’ve bought by quite a margin. They help you power walk up those peaks while ascending and take a huge weight off your knees and ankles when descending. You can test dodgy muddy and icy ground with them. Pole vault small streams and rivers, prevent a serious fall, even. Probably keep a dodgy wild animal or angry cow at bay too (Haven’t tested that part) And the folding Z versions can be easily stored in smaller backpacks. My own preferred model is the aluminium Micro Vario folding poles by Leki. A little heavier than carbon fibre, but more resistant to damage (say if you fall on them heavily). Have tried folding poles by a couple of other brands and found them less reliable and prone to faults developing ( I do also like the MSR poles which I borrowed from a friend).
Have to agree that Aluminium alloy poles are that bit more durable. These Aluminium poles will still function after being bent, dented or twisted. As opposed to Carbon-fibre poles which seem to be inherently more brittle. In fact. I don't think I could have completed my Annapurna and Everest base-camp treks without my Aluminium Sherpa XL's.
Stumbled across you looking for trekking pole information and found so much more. Lots of great info. You've renewed my interest in hiking and back packing. Thank you!
when you stumble on steep ground with poles and wrist straps on, you might be able to catch your fall instinctively, or grab some grass to stop a slide
I have some poles but haven't used them for a while so really need to be making more use. Never thought of being able to use them to sit more comfortably! Great tip!
I have chronic pain and a bum knee that will require surgery to repair. In the meantime, I also have a hyper doggie, and we walk on all terrain. This will ease the stress load on my body, and I appreciate you sharing this info.
So good to see you do a video on the misunderstood walking pole. When I was a young pup I had a serious downer on the humble walking pole. Now that I am a lot older and a little wiser I really appreciate the value of the humble walking pole. This has mad such a difference to my hiking especially when I am carrying an exped pack. I am so enamoured by them, and post two hip ops, I am looking to take up Nordic Walking so that I can properly make the most of this brilliant piece of kit.
When I bought some walking poles, I received a lot of snobbery from other walkers in the U.K. Yet other countries use them passionately and without remark.
Very informative video while keeping it light. A friend was talking to me about walking poles last night, I am having all sorts of problems with my knees and feet as I am getting older. I am going to look at some poles today so watching this was very helpful thanks.
Paul - entertaining as well as informative. In your explanation about the the straps you didn't mention that the poles are left and right handed, with the twist in the straps being opposite ways on each pole and they are marked R and L. I put some vinyl tape round the shaft below the handles, using red for right and blue for left, to identify which is right and left more easily.
I don’t wear any of the brands sold by you, but damn I love this channel! I watch them as soon as they drop. One thing I appreciate is a thorough review, not being stingy to appease the “mini vid” crowd. I need more than 3 minutes to explain why I should spend $300. You can make a cup of tea, sit back and learn about the piece 👍🏾.
Thank you for this video. I was looking for a good tutorial video how to use the trekking poles for a long time but to no avail. You were able to explain it in a great and easy way and now I can see I have used the poles in a wrong way. Btw I am a Pole...
Good video thanks ,I'l have to start walking with my poles now and hopefully, 🤔they will help relieve my foot pain as I do enjoy walking in the countryside 😊
I just got my first set of poles (Black Diamond) and have been looking at tons of videos to understand the proper way to use them. Paul, your video is the best I’ve seen! You explain well, the camera shows the important details and I love your sense of humour! Thank you so much! Hugs from Canada 😊
You describe the right way how the stripes should be and that way you won't snap your wrist if you fall. Another thing, if you go up the poles should be shorter, and when going down you should adjust them to be longer.
The length of poles relative to the slope is purely personal. I’ve never felt the need to adjust the length when going up or coming down. Thanks for watching.
@@trekitt On a deep descent the reason for extending the poles is so that you avoid the tendency to lean too far forward and over balance. You yourself said the poles help to keep the strain off your back by keeping your back straight. Well you certainly can't do that with a normal set length on a steep descent. I think it was a mistake to make a video about poles and not at least explain that even though you personally don't do it.
I am 67. I have used a cane on and off for 20 years. I just bought 2 collapsable canes on Amazon for @$23.99. Because they are shorter than walking poles, my arms rest comforably at my sides. The canes (as with all canes) help me walk more agressively and help with balance. With two canes, each side is symmetrical and I can just fly wherever I am walking. There is always something for me to lean on even in motion. Keep in mind, I am walking on flat surfaces.
Great video and can definitely see the benefits so we’ll look at getting some. The only issue for us is that we have dogs and they often have to be on a lead which will scupper us a little
Doggos on leads are always a tricky one when using poles, often finding ways to get themselves tangled around. Something like this from Ruffwear may work for your situation to keep your hands free www.trekitt.co.uk/dpt/dogs/ruffwear-trail-runner-running-belt-blue-pool__53224 I can't however promise that the dogs will walk in a straight line. Still, at least you'd get some extra assistance on the uphills...
Hi! Nice video. I read an article in my newsfeed this morning about Nordic pole walking. I've had a slow recovery from surgeries and have become weaker than usual and a bit unstable at times. Not enough for a walker. I think these poles will help steady and strengthen me over time. No big hills in the beginning. I'm picking up a set of poles later today and will give it a go this evening when it's cooler. North Carolina is too hot and muggy during the day. I looked up videos about using the poles, yours is straight and to the point. Love the humor too! Thank you for sharing!🌄🚶♀️👍
So clearly demonstrated that even Dense m got it. I bought a pair of cheapos recently and thought I would start of with one, because I have a bit of a sore hip and knee on one side and it would be easier to get the hang of it, but I was geting the technique wrong. Watched your video and started practising down the corridors with the one stick. Colleauges think I am losing my marbles. Will bring the other stick into work tomorrow, rewatch your video and go for it with both poles. Thank you so much
Thanks for the video. It appeared in my recommendations today and, although I have been using poles on and off for the past 20 years I still learned something. I bought my sturdy Komperdell poles about 20 years ago when hiking in the Alps. They were really good support on uneven ground and in particular on long descends. In the last ten years I did less hiking and started to suffer backpain on longer walks. Twelve months ago I discovered extreme hiking and my poles came out of their hiding holes. They are a great support when after 20 miles the organiser has found another incline to torture us with, or when the fatigue inevitably sets in. And my back pain? What back pain? My impression is that the poles improve my posture and this prevents back pain when hiking.
We're glad this video still taught you something and you're still getting out there and using poles. They're something we think everyone should have in their arsenal for tackling the outdoors, a very useful piece of equipment.
I subscribed ages ago for some kind of instruction video but have stayed (and ordered from you) due to the great work from everyone at Trekitt. Thanks again 👍🏽
I think the biggest problem people (especially in the UK) have with walking poles is the image problem of being seen as some sort of invalid who has to walk with sticks. But it took me only about twenty minutes to realise these things are a HUGE advantage on gradients and rough terrain.
Great and convincing demostration. Please send some advice on how to use them downhill, I saw in the video that you do not alternate them in your steps and that you point them in the terrain in front of you
Going downhill is more stabilising yourself rather than pushing yourself forwards, so it's just a matter of popping the poles in front and leaning on them a little more. Harry
@@trekitt Thanks Harry for your replay, I agree 100% Vito from Venice (Italy) using trekking poles in the mountains in my region, but I will try on the bridges of the town
I'm not your target audience nor in the market for this, but it was a very good explanation. Now I now what to do If I'm ever in a situation where I all of a sudden need to travel with Walking Poles & flip a goat during the journey.
That was excellently funny😂and very helpful. I just bought some poles I haven’t used them but I’m convinced I did the right thing..thanks again. I now know where to begin.
this is a great video as an intro & discussion re the use of trekking poles -- VERY informative, no fluff, and I appreciated the "extra features" that poles can be used for.
My hand don't swell and my fingers don't feel like big fat sausages when I use trekking poles.😛 I move hands down on the handle when I'm ascending, and place my hands on top of pole when descending. Each year I go on multi-day trekks for 2-6 weeks at a time and my folding z-poles have proven to be invaluable piece of gear.
Another great informative Trekitt video. Dont use poles myself, but might get some in the future. Another benefit of them to me would be testing the ground you intend to walk on, particularly if snow covered or very boggy.
Hey, great video, super helpful.. quick question: do you need to adjust the height if you're going up or downhill or is the height just fixed and you never change it?
This depends a little on your poles. Some will have an extended grip that runs further down the shaft so you can move your hand lower without adjusting the length, both black diamond and Leki have these in their ranges. When going uphill a shorter pole is useful because you're placing the poles above you on the slope, so moving your hand down the pole can be useful, or adjusting it shorter if your poles don't have an extended grip. Going downhill you may find it useful to have a longer pole, or at least taking your hand out of the straps and using the top or the pole a bit more like a pommel, rather than gripping the pole and leaning further forward.
We're glad this helped you decide on some poles, enjoy them! Paul is wearing a pair of the Hestra Wakayama gloves www.trekitt.co.uk/clothing/gloves-mittens/hestra-wakayama-five-finger-gloves-cork__51261
Thank you for letting me know that y’all were in Wales…. I just received my Nordic walking poles and you’re video was probably the most informative one by far…especially things you can do with the poles other than walking and hiking…ie, resting against them, supporting a tarp, and drying your sweaty clothes..!!! Question: do the poles have to be in the ground for the tarp idea??? Or are they just sitting on top of the ground….????
Depends a little on your tarp setup, you'll either have the tip in the ground and the handle tensioned onto your tarp, or if your tarp has eyelets you would normally pop the tip through them and have the handle resting on the top of the ground.@@sterlingdafydd5834
Thank you for this info. I have very bad arthritis in both my feet. I’ve been wondering if walking poles would help with support and stability as I walk. One cane is no use to me since both my feet are arthritic so walking poles seem like they might be a solution. Can you comment on this, please?
A pair of poles will help with support and stability when walking. Whether they will be enough to make a difference to your walking enjoyment or not will be subjective, but we would recommend giving them a try.
As a Norwegian cross country skier, your poles seems too short. Normal length for skiing poles is up to the arm pits. You get a much longer swing and push with longer poles. But I haven’t tried it with hiking, so there may be other considerations to take into account.
I'm still a bit skeptical, but it sounds like that's mainly down to being under 30. Got given a nice new tent for Christmas that uses trekking poles as it's supports, so now I'm trying to overcome my prejudice against them 😅
If it helps we have many members of team trekitt that are under 30 that use poles and wouldn't go without them. Poles are for everyone and should hopefully help keep you in better shape so you can still be out enjoying the hills when you're much further the other side of 30...
@@trekitt Thanks for the reply! Yeah I'm open to being proven wrong, just waiting for the next big big trip to see how they feel on a real incline with a pack, may have a 'hike to Damascus' moment haha
One pole will help increase stability a little and provide some support, particularly when descending steeper terrain. Ben uses one pole when descending steep ground to keep one hand free, but in most cases a pair of poles will win out over a single one, especially when it comes to gains in efficiency.
They would be strong enough, but at 95kg you'd feel more flex in the poles so might feel a little less supported by them. For the extra 20-ish grams per pole, we would recommend going for the Standard version of the Sherpa, or if you're really concerned about durability they also do a Carbon Strong version which is the most robust pole Leki makes.
The poles we used: www.trekitt.co.uk/equipment/walking-poles-ice-axes/black-diamond-unisex-trail-pole-pair-picante__37266
Shop our entire range of poles: www.trekitt.co.uk/equipment/poles--and--axes
Went to your website, by the time l got into your cookie policy ditched out, sorry feller, just have a decline option.
As a Podiatrist we recommend them to reduce the stress on knees when walking downhill particularly. Wouldn’t be without mine.
I tried poles for the first time yesterday on a steep trail. WOW! What a huge difference they made! So much more speed and stability. Not to mention less knee pain and a better upper body workout as well. Can't believe it took me this long to try them!
Great to hear, glad we could help! Hope you enjoy many pain-free miles.
Poles save your knees when walking down a mountain, and provide stability against slipping on rubble when on a gradient. They are a godsend for older hikers like me.
I hate trekking poles and advise strongly against them. They prevent the body from moving or flexing correctly, prevent building muscle strength in key areas, and destroy natural balance. The longer that you use them, the weaker becomes the muscle and tendon strength until you're totally reliant on them. It's a very unnatural way to walk or climb and are certainly not needed for negotiating a variety of different terrains at any age.
They are also good for checking the ground that you are stepping on to, if it's covered in snow or whatever you can check it's safe to step on to
Thanks, always wondered why walking poles are used
Agree, for a 60 year old, I use them going down Arizona mountains. They’ve saved me from very nasty falls several times. I don’t use them going up hills, as I want to build balance in my leg muscles.
Yea, it's a pity they all went home because of Brexit
I am a huge fan of poles. My back is so bad with pain that I cannot walk for more than 20 mins max without pain. BUT with poles I can go all day. After years of walking shorter and shorter distances I am now back to all day treks. They are a better pain relief for my back than codiene. I am not being overly dramatic when I say that.
As Paul says, you must get your technique right. Practice on the level then just see how far you can go.
That sounds like as good reason as any! Good to hear you're able to enjoy the outdoors again with the help of the poles. Harry
This is, by far, the most compact yet informative video regarding trekking poles I have yet seen. Thank you!
🙌🙌🙌
Used to be a bit sceptical about the benefits of trekking poles in my youth.
As i get older and less agile or supple, i’ve learnt better and have come to rely on my well used and abused, but now indispensable, Leki Sherpa XL/XTG Aluminium alloy poles.
Really instructive video yet again.
Keep up the great work guys.
Best regards.
Dude, thanks for 6:16 explaining the straps. The product listing didn't explain this, nor could salespeople at the trekking store I bought my second pair explain what they were for, so I simply took them off. I thought to myself, "I'm not going to accidentally drop these, and even if I ever do I can simply pick them up again and move on. What do I need these stupid straps for?" So I removed them. I'll have to see if I can find them again, and try out your method. I haven't experienced any tendonitis though, and I can say that using poles without the straps has improved my grip strength. And I also find not having them more convenient for when I want to use my hands for other things. Still, I'd like to give your method a try and look forward to doing that soon!
Well done on the whole video, especially 1:54 explaining the benefits. My boss was making fun of me for my poles yesterday, asking if I had skied to work (but what if I had? That would also be cool...). I live in Finland, and thought that so-called "Nordic walking" was enough of a thing here that I wouldn't need to explain it to him. I recently walked the West Highland Way and now I'm hooked on poles, as I like how they incorporate my upper body, and also having the extra points of contact, especially with the ice around here this time of year.
Glad to hear you're getting on well with your poles. Let us know how you find using them with the straps (if you find them!), we think the straps are a useful addition, but your mileage may vary.
Living in Finland we would expect you to be much more likely to have actually skied to work...
I'm in Michigan in the States, but your videos have grabbed my attention! The ethos of UK outdoor enthusiasm and the way you explain the gear is lacking in the States, where "outdoor clothing" is more and more just a Gucci Bag with a North Face logo slapped on it. For those of us that want to buy for quality and use the gear while being nerdy about the small quirks, your channel hits that right on the head. Americans ALL lead with marketing and vanity and the jacket is just an afterthought.
Kagan - as a Brit, a hiker and a wild camper, your post has made me warm to Americans... and you have ALL those great nature reserves! (I know what you mean about North Face tho - asides from their Summit series, they're just a fashion brand. I have the Mountain equipment jacket Harry is wearing.
OK. I'm convinced. I start the Camino in 2 weeks. I was going to do it without poles. But now I think I'm going to invest. Thank you!
It's a worthwhile investment!
I bought my first set of Nordic Walking Poll a month ago and I love them. They allow me to work out 90% of my body, increase my pace, reduce stress on my back/hips/knees and get more out of my walk.
Great to hear!
Excellent demonstration and very informative. Thank you. This is the most helpful trekking pole tutorial on youtube. Thanks for being concise, too.
This is the best and most informative video on walking poles. Really useful. And love the dry humour. Thank you!
New to walking poles - this is the best video I've seen - you make it very clear and I'm confident I'll soon be used to them - longish distance walker, almost 78 years old and suffer from lower back pain because of posture collapsing after 20km! Should do better now - thank you very much!
Thank you for the kind words! I'm sure poles will help dramatically. All the best.
From Canada
Just got a set of poles. Wish I had got them before
Can’t wait to get over to the UK, my favourite destination, and do some serious walking and hiking.
All the best from the colony. Really enjoyed it.
Thank you! Enjoy your trip when you make it over.
And we look forward to see you. Try the West Highland Way! Highly recommended.
I’ve just gotten in to walking for my health at 68, and I find Treking poles allow me to increase my duration and distances by at least 50%. Picked up a couple of tips here I will try.
Great video. I've only got back into hill walking in the last year or so, and my knees are not what they used to be! I'd struggle to get up and down now without my poles - especially downhill when my knees take an absolute hammering!
Yup, downhill is always the killer!
Thank you awesome helping me to use my Pole's for walking 😊
Probably the best piece of outdoor gear I’ve bought by quite a margin. They help you power walk up those peaks while ascending and take a huge weight off your knees and ankles when descending.
You can test dodgy muddy and icy ground with them. Pole vault small streams and rivers, prevent a serious fall, even. Probably keep a dodgy wild animal or angry cow at bay too (Haven’t tested that part) And the folding Z versions can be easily stored in smaller backpacks.
My own preferred model is the aluminium Micro Vario folding poles by Leki. A little heavier than carbon fibre, but more resistant to damage (say if you fall on them heavily). Have tried folding poles by a couple of other brands and found them less reliable and prone to faults developing ( I do also like the MSR poles which I borrowed from a friend).
Have to agree that Aluminium alloy poles are that bit more durable. These Aluminium poles will still function after being bent, dented or twisted. As opposed to Carbon-fibre poles which seem to be inherently more brittle.
In fact. I don't think I could have completed my Annapurna and Everest base-camp treks without my Aluminium Sherpa XL's.
Stumbled across you looking for trekking pole information and found so much more. Lots of great info. You've renewed my interest in hiking and back packing. Thank you!
Ah that's great to hear, thank you!
when you stumble on steep ground with poles and wrist straps on, you might be able to catch your fall instinctively, or grab some grass to stop a slide
I have some poles but haven't used them for a while so really need to be making more use. Never thought of being able to use them to sit more comfortably! Great tip!
You’re welcome!
I have chronic pain and a bum knee that will require surgery to repair. In the meantime, I also have a hyper doggie, and we walk on all terrain. This will ease the stress load on my body, and I appreciate you sharing this info.
Glad we could help in the meantime-hope the surgery goes well.
@@trekitt thank you so much, I appreciate it ❤️
So good to see you do a video on the misunderstood walking pole. When I was a young pup I had a serious downer on the humble walking pole. Now that I am a lot older and a little wiser I really appreciate the value of the humble walking pole. This has mad such a difference to my hiking especially when I am carrying an exped pack. I am so enamoured by them, and post two hip ops, I am looking to take up Nordic Walking so that I can properly make the most of this brilliant piece of kit.
When I bought some walking poles, I received a lot of snobbery from other walkers in the U.K. Yet other countries use them passionately and without remark.
Great tips and great instruction! I never considered the multi uses of the walking poles! Thank you for sharing ❤
Very informative video while keeping it light. A friend was talking to me about walking poles last night, I am having all sorts of problems with my knees and feet as I am getting older. I am going to look at some poles today so watching this was very helpful thanks.
Thank you-good luck with the poles, I'm sure they'll make a noticeable difference. Harry
Very good video. You do an excellent job of describing the correct way to hold the poles. Now that I know, I'll start to do it the right way. Thanks!
Thanks Jim!
Paul - entertaining as well as informative. In your explanation about the the straps you didn't mention that the poles are left and right handed, with the twist in the straps being opposite ways on each pole and they are marked R and L. I put some vinyl tape round the shaft below the handles, using red for right and blue for left, to identify which is right and left more easily.
Did you tape around your boots too?
@@GrumpyGarry121 Now there's an idea! Red lace for right boot - blue lace for left boot.
Good plan. I do the same with headphones just to make it more obvious. Harry
I don’t wear any of the brands sold by you, but damn I love this channel! I watch them as soon as they drop. One thing I appreciate is a thorough review, not being stingy to appease the “mini vid” crowd. I need more than 3 minutes to explain why I should spend $300. You can make a cup of tea, sit back and learn about the piece 👍🏾.
Thank you!
I you sure you're not British? The tea drinking might be a give away.
Great video! Very helpful. I'm new to trekking poles. Your video taught me a lot, and showed me ideas for use that I'd not considered. Thank you!
Thank you for this video. I was looking for a good tutorial video how to use the trekking poles for a long time but to no avail. You were able to explain it in a great and easy way and now I can see I have used the poles in a wrong way. Btw I am a Pole...
Good video thanks ,I'l have to start walking with my poles now and hopefully, 🤔they will help relieve my foot pain as I do enjoy walking in the countryside 😊
I'm excited to try these. Thanks Paul for an inspiring video.
I just got my first set of poles (Black Diamond) and have been looking at tons of videos to understand the proper way to use them. Paul, your video is the best I’ve seen! You explain well, the camera shows the important details and I love your sense of humour! Thank you so much! Hugs from Canada 😊
You describe the right way how the stripes should be and that way you won't snap your wrist if you fall. Another thing, if you go up the poles should be shorter, and when going down you should adjust them to be longer.
The length of poles relative to the slope is purely personal. I’ve never felt the need to adjust the length when going up or coming down. Thanks for watching.
@@trekitt On a deep descent the reason for extending the poles is so that you avoid the tendency to lean too far forward and over balance. You yourself said the poles help to keep the strain off your back by keeping your back straight. Well you certainly can't do that with a normal set length on a steep descent. I think it was a mistake to make a video about poles and not at least explain that even though you personally don't do it.
A
Great in theory, but in practice the angle of slope is rarely constant.
@@christaylor4758 Nevertheless, if you go up, or down for hours it will be significant. Anyway, adjustments the only a minute, so it will pay off
@@DenisDuke Very well stated!
Brilliant informative description and it has improved my knowledge on there use.
Great video including the"silliness" . Quite lovely!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Very very useful guide! Keep the silly up, that's what ultimately made me want to subscribe!!
Any difference between this and Nordic walking poles, thinking about upper body workout on the flat.
This should help: britishnordicwalking.org.uk/blogs/news/what-is-the-difference-between-nordic-walking-and-pole-walking
I am 67. I have used a cane on and off for 20 years. I just bought 2 collapsable canes on Amazon for @$23.99. Because they are shorter than walking poles, my arms rest comforably at my sides. The canes (as with all canes) help me walk more agressively and help with balance. With two canes, each side is symmetrical and I can just fly wherever I am walking. There is always something for me to lean on even in motion. Keep in mind, I am walking on flat surfaces.
Great video and can definitely see the benefits so we’ll look at getting some. The only issue for us is that we have dogs and they often have to be on a lead which will scupper us a little
Doggos on leads are always a tricky one when using poles, often finding ways to get themselves tangled around. Something like this from Ruffwear may work for your situation to keep your hands free www.trekitt.co.uk/dpt/dogs/ruffwear-trail-runner-running-belt-blue-pool__53224 I can't however promise that the dogs will walk in a straight line. Still, at least you'd get some extra assistance on the uphills...
Very helpful, thank and no useless info or music 😊.Thank you.
Hi! Nice video. I read an article in my newsfeed this morning about Nordic pole walking. I've had a slow recovery from surgeries and have become weaker than usual and a bit unstable at times. Not enough for a walker. I think these poles will help steady and strengthen me over time. No big hills in the beginning. I'm picking up a set of poles later today and will give it a go this evening when it's cooler. North Carolina is too hot and muggy during the day. I looked up videos about using the poles, yours is straight and to the point. Love the humor too! Thank you for sharing!🌄🚶♀️👍
Thank you! I'm sure they'll make a big difference. Good luck with the recovery. Harry
Great demo! I am sold!
We believe poles are for everyone, glad we managed to convince you!
So clearly demonstrated that even Dense m got it. I bought a pair of cheapos recently and thought I would start of with one, because I have a bit of a sore hip and knee on one side and it would be easier to get the hang of it, but I was geting the technique wrong. Watched your video and started practising down the corridors with the one stick. Colleauges think I am losing my marbles. Will bring the other stick into work tomorrow, rewatch your video and go for it with both poles. Thank you so much
Both poles is definitely the way forward-good luck!
Thanks for the video. It appeared in my recommendations today and, although I have been using poles on and off for the past 20 years I still learned something.
I bought my sturdy Komperdell poles about 20 years ago when hiking in the Alps. They were really good support on uneven ground and in particular on long descends. In the last ten years I did less hiking and started to suffer backpain on longer walks. Twelve months ago I discovered extreme hiking and my poles came out of their hiding holes. They are a great support when after 20 miles the organiser has found another incline to torture us with, or when the fatigue inevitably sets in.
And my back pain? What back pain? My impression is that the poles improve my posture and this prevents back pain when hiking.
We're glad this video still taught you something and you're still getting out there and using poles. They're something we think everyone should have in their arsenal for tackling the outdoors, a very useful piece of equipment.
Well done video!
Thanks for the information
Awesome video! Very comprehensive. The gentleman in the video has an excellent presence. Very smooth and engaging.
Thank you!
Wonderful, thank you so much for sharing!
Absolutely spot-on and super helpful! Thanks
Love your videos always informative and well made and a big thank you to Harry too from Neoklis Australia
I subscribed ages ago for some kind of instruction video but have stayed (and ordered from you) due to the great work from everyone at Trekitt. Thanks again 👍🏽
Thank you, that's much appreciated!
@@trekitt No problem, keep it up!
Mel's
Brilliant instructional video. Thank you!
I think the biggest problem people (especially in the UK) have with walking poles is the image problem of being seen as some sort of invalid who has to walk with sticks. But it took me only about twenty minutes to realise these things are a HUGE advantage on gradients and rough terrain.
Yeah, this is true. Maybe we should follow this video up by making fun of strangers without poles to even things up a bit.
☺️
Great and convincing demostration. Please send some advice on how to use them downhill, I saw in the video that you do not alternate them in your steps and that you point them in the terrain in front of you
Going downhill is more stabilising yourself rather than pushing yourself forwards, so it's just a matter of popping the poles in front and leaning on them a little more. Harry
@@trekitt Thanks Harry for your replay, I agree 100%
Vito from Venice (Italy) using trekking poles in the mountains in my region, but I will try on the bridges of the town
Always been a bit skeptical about poles, but watching this very informative video I may well give them a go👍
Very well done. We have come to really appreciate ours.
Super helpful, 4 day trek soon so defo buying some poles! Used them before, totally wrong but no more! Fab video thank you!
I'm not your target audience nor in the market for this, but it was a very good explanation. Now I now what to do If I'm ever in a situation where I all of a sudden need to travel with Walking Poles & flip a goat during the journey.
Thank you so much for this information! I had no idea what these are for. Cheers!
Great video.. so entertaining but informative without too much waffle. Used walking poles once.. now know exactly how I was miss-using them.
Thank you!
Excellent explanation for trekking poles 😎
I tried them three days ago for the first time. I will never hike again without them. They are great.
We're very big fans of poles here at Trekitt. Glad you found them helpful.
Great and simple video - thanks. Could you please make something similar for using poles uphill and downhill (and on steps too). Thanks
That was excellently funny😂and very helpful. I just bought some poles I haven’t used them but I’m convinced I did the right thing..thanks again. I now know where to begin.
Enjoy the new poles, let us know how you get on!
Thank you for sharing the video. Very informative
this is a great video as an intro & discussion re the use of trekking poles -- VERY informative, no fluff, and I appreciated the "extra features" that poles can be used for.
I haven't watched this channel before. I liked this charming guy within the first minute.
Great video, very well put & quite funny, which is always good!
I've learnt something, thanks. I'll give them a go👍
Let us know how you get on!
Will do😃
Best explanation of technic I've seen so far
Thank you! Hope you can put it into practise out on the hills!
My hand don't swell and my fingers don't feel like big fat sausages when I use trekking poles.😛
I move hands down on the handle when I'm ascending, and place my hands on top of pole when descending. Each year I go on multi-day trekks for 2-6 weeks at a time and my folding z-poles have proven to be invaluable piece of gear.
What a really good tutorial, thank you very much 👍👍👍
Another great informative Trekitt video. Dont use poles myself, but might get some in the future. Another benefit of them to me would be testing the ground you intend to walk on, particularly if snow covered or very boggy.
Always handy checking for holes in the snow and bogst
Hey, great video, super helpful.. quick question: do you need to adjust the height if you're going up or downhill or is the height just fixed and you never change it?
This depends a little on your poles. Some will have an extended grip that runs further down the shaft so you can move your hand lower without adjusting the length, both black diamond and Leki have these in their ranges. When going uphill a shorter pole is useful because you're placing the poles above you on the slope, so moving your hand down the pole can be useful, or adjusting it shorter if your poles don't have an extended grip. Going downhill you may find it useful to have a longer pole, or at least taking your hand out of the straps and using the top or the pole a bit more like a pommel, rather than gripping the pole and leaning further forward.
These are great and a good video.
Do you have any advice for those of us who live in the city and walk mostly on concrete?
You can purchase rubber tips to slot on the end of the poles: www.trekitt.co.uk/equipment/walking-poles-ice-axes/leki-rubber-trekking-pad-pair__33647
Excellent video for a new munro bagger. Thank you!
Just bought a pair of poles this week so very informative, thank you. What Hestra gloves are you wearing? Look very robust.
We're glad this helped you decide on some poles, enjoy them!
Paul is wearing a pair of the Hestra Wakayama gloves
www.trekitt.co.uk/clothing/gloves-mittens/hestra-wakayama-five-finger-gloves-cork__51261
10:44 "Get back, Rover!" 😂
How about adjusting the length for going up or down steep hills?
Yeah, is a good shout. Lengthening going downhill is especially useful.
Thank you…looks like you’re in Wales..?? My mum is from Llanidloes…greetings from Houston, Texas
We are indeed, this was filmed near Hay Bluff. Great to know our content is reaching all the way to Texas!
Thank you for letting me know that y’all were in Wales…. I just received my Nordic walking poles and you’re video was probably the most informative one by far…especially things you can do with the poles other than walking and hiking…ie, resting against them, supporting a tarp, and drying your sweaty clothes..!!! Question: do the poles have to be in the ground for the tarp idea??? Or are they just sitting on top of the ground….????
Depends a little on your tarp setup, you'll either have the tip in the ground and the handle tensioned onto your tarp, or if your tarp has eyelets you would normally pop the tip through them and have the handle resting on the top of the ground.@@sterlingdafydd5834
Thank you!
Thank you for this info. I have very bad arthritis in both my feet. I’ve been wondering if walking poles would help with support and stability as I walk. One cane is no use to me since both my feet are arthritic so walking poles seem like they might be a solution. Can you comment on this, please?
A pair of poles will help with support and stability when walking. Whether they will be enough to make a difference to your walking enjoyment or not will be subjective, but we would recommend giving them a try.
Love the channel, and thanks for the video, which poles were you using please?
Hey Sam, they're these: www.trekitt.co.uk/equipment/walking-poles-ice-axes/black-diamond-unisex-trail-pole-pair-picante__37266
I’m young and I use hiking poles because I’m hiking with a baby in a hiking pack!!! Makes a huge difference!!!
Thanks good ideas tips and tricks.
thank you
good job mate
Can I use my hiking/trekking poles for Nordic walking?
Yup, no issues there. The main difference with most nordic poles is the shape of the grip/straps and overall weight, but a trekking pole will work.
Yep, I just use my cheap hiking poles from Amazon
Fantastic video! Thank you
Our pleasure!
As a Norwegian cross country skier, your poles seems too short. Normal length for skiing poles is up to the arm pits.
You get a much longer swing and push with longer poles.
But I haven’t tried it with hiking, so there may be other considerations to take into account.
I was sold on using poles by a PTI when on an exped. Use them probably and they work well. Just one thing, my dogs is called Bracken and………
😂
My dog is called Rover but is in another room so he's not taken offence....
wow great video... thky
If you grab the pole through the strap from below as you show if you trip your hand is free to help break your fall.
Thanks,
I'm still a bit skeptical, but it sounds like that's mainly down to being under 30. Got given a nice new tent for Christmas that uses trekking poles as it's supports, so now I'm trying to overcome my prejudice against them 😅
If it helps we have many members of team trekitt that are under 30 that use poles and wouldn't go without them. Poles are for everyone and should hopefully help keep you in better shape so you can still be out enjoying the hills when you're much further the other side of 30...
@@trekitt Thanks for the reply! Yeah I'm open to being proven wrong, just waiting for the next big big trip to see how they feel on a real incline with a pack, may have a 'hike to Damascus' moment haha
@@fearghal10 sounds like you need to get planning the next big trip 👀 let us know how you get on, we'd love to hear about it.
Also good for removing spiderwebs before you walk into them :)
Are there any benefits of just using one poll...
One pole will help increase stability a little and provide some support, particularly when descending steeper terrain. Ben uses one pole when descending steep ground to keep one hand free, but in most cases a pair of poles will win out over a single one, especially when it comes to gains in efficiency.
Another alternate use is clearing spider lines across paths.
Yup, good shout
i am about 95kg 6'.. are leki sherpa Lite poles strong enough for my size?
They would be strong enough, but at 95kg you'd feel more flex in the poles so might feel a little less supported by them. For the extra 20-ish grams per pole, we would recommend going for the Standard version of the Sherpa, or if you're really concerned about durability they also do a Carbon Strong version which is the most robust pole Leki makes.