Itchy, Numb Hands

Question:

I am an avid backpacker, and I often have trouble with my hands falling asleep and getting itchy when I’m hiking. I’ve read that trekking poles can fix this problem. Can I use my cross-country ski poles?

Submitted by – Aliya, Nevada City, CA

Answer:

The problem you describe is common. And yep, trekking poles often help a lot. Although you can use your ski poles, sometimes cross-country ski poles are too long to be comfy while backpacking. You don’t want your hands too high up. If your poles adjust, keep your hands at a height that keeps your forearms about parallel to the ground. —Buck