How To: Adjust Trekking Poles for Efficiency on Varying Terrain

Trekking poles are a boon for security on sketchy terrain, and they'll keep your knees alive over hard-charging decades of hiking. To get the most benefit on flats, uphills and downhills, use adjustable-length poles and adjust them correctly. Here's how.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.


TrekkingPoles_Adjust-3-3416-1-268x400

On flat or rolling terrain, adjust the pole to elbow height, so your forearm is roughly horizontal when held.

TrekkingPoles_Adjust-3-3418-2-268x400

On flat or rolling terrain, adjust the pole to elbow height, so your forearm is roughly horizontal when held.

TrekkingPoles_Adjust-3-3436-3-268x400

This allows for a natural stride, arm swing, and decent propulsion.

TrekkingPoles_Adjust-3-3426-1-268x400

For steep uphills like mountain boulderfields or precipitous trails, radically shorten the poles down to thigh height, or as short as they’ll go.

TrekkingPoles_Adjust-4-3478-4-268x400

This allows for a natural arm position, energy savings, and more security on steep slopes where scrambling with your hands would be awkward.

TrekkingPoles_Adjust-6-3509-8-268x400

If your poles are too long, you’ll be trekking in the ‘stick ’em up’ position, which is unstable and tough on your shoulders with a big load. It also makes you vulnerable to shoulder dislocations should you fall awkwardly.

TrekkingPoles_Adjust-7-3520-9-268x400

For steep descents, extend the poles to chest height, which allows you to reach down for secure pole placements while maintaining a balanced position.

Photos by Jennifer Howe / howephoto.us