The summer months are finally here, which means it is time to take a break from the office and daily stresses of modern living. For me, one of the best ways to do this is to get outside and spend some time with mother nature.
One activity I particularly enjoy is hiking, the scenes you witness while in hiking in the mountains are among the most beautiful you will ever see. But of course, you might not want to go into the mountains and start walking without some hiking poles to help keep you upright (especially on those longer hikes).
Best Hiking Poles
Why do you need hiking poles?
The best hiking poles give you move leverage when walking on any surface, but you begin to feel the difference when trying to walk up steep inclines. They work by allowing you to push off of the ground with more than just your legs.
When using hiking poles you are not only increasing your walking speed, but you are also saving your knees from having to take all of the impacts. This article will be aimed at making sure you get the most out of your dollar when shopping for a hiking pole.
Mountainsmith Pinnacle Trekking Pole
The first product I want to review is useful for those beginning their hiking adventures. The Mountainsmith Pinnacle Trekking priced generously below 30 dollars (for the pair). It is made of aluminum, so it can withstand a good amount of weight and force that you will inevitably put on them.
The aluminum on these trekking poles also allows for shock absorption, so that your hands and wrists will not have too much strain put on them. They come with wrist straps, removable rubber boots, and removable baskets so you can use them on a variety of different surfaces.
Is this the right product for you?
The Mountainsmith Pinnacle Trekking Pole is a useful product if you are not going to be doing a whole lot of hiking. However, if you are an intermediate to an advanced level hiker, I think you should opt for a higher quality product.
Kelty Range 2.0 Trekking Poles
The Kelty Range 2.0 is an excellent choice for those who will be doing a good amount of hiking. I like this product because it offers stability in a lightweight, easy to wield design. It weighs twenty ounces, has a maximum length of 53 inches and a minimum length of 27 inches.
The “Range 2.0” also has several different attachments that allow you to navigate on several different types of terrain. The rubber tips are useful for cement or rocks, and the snow baskets are good for (you guessed it) snowy terrain.
Another great aspect of the “Range 2.0” is the internal anti-shock spring technology. Why is this so important? Well, the spring technology keeps your wrists and forearms from having to take all of the impacts with each step, keeping you fresh for the duration of your hike. These also come with a one-year limited warranty, so make sure you put these through some heavy use in year one.
Should you purchase these?
These will work well for most of you reading this. They can take quite a bit of punishment, and they will keep your body from having to take too much of that punishment. If you go on a moderate amount of hikes, then these will work perfect for you, but if you are an avid hiker, you may want to get an even higher quality trekking pole.
Leki Corklite Trekking Pole
Our final product review is one of the more advanced and durable products I have found (without having to spend a fortune) in this category. The Leki Corklite Trekking Pole is priced a little less than 140 dollars, but it is well worth the money if you are an avid hiker. I love the sleek, clean look of the design of the “Corklite.” Because the grip is made of natural cork, the pole is light enough that you almost don’t even feel like you are carrying anything, yet sturdy enough that you can put as much pressure on them as you deem necessary.
The cork also conforms to your grip over time, allowing them to age well. This makes the Leki Corklite the go-to option for comfort and durability. Just like any other hiking pole, it comes with attachments for different types of terrain, but the poles also come with a lifetime manufacturers warranty (the deciding factor in my opinion).
Should you purchase this trekking pole?
It is true; this is a rather expensive piece of equipment. But with a lifetime warranty, it is one that is guaranteed to last you several years. If you are an avid hiker who is seeking the highest quality product that your money can buy, then I see no reason for you to look any further than the Leki Corklite Trekking Poles.
Wrap-Up
To me, summertime is an opportunity to get back to our roots as human beings. It is my time to enjoy the outdoors and reconnect with nature. Hiking is one of the better ways to do so. And a trekking pole is the best way to ensure I am spending less time dreading each step, and more time appreciating the beauty that surrounds me. One of these three products are the best hiking poles, Chose the one that suites your needs.
Need hiking pants for your next hike? We recommend these ones here.
Looking for women’s hiking sandals? Check these ones out here.
Want a watch to wear for your next hiking trip? Read about the best one we recommend here.
