Outdoor poles in the Sportano shopOutdoor poles are an indispensable piece of equipment for lovers of bushcraft and outdoor activities. They make navigating difficult terrain much easier, help with balance and can minimise stress on joints and muscles. Choosing the right pole is important to ensure comfort, safety and support while hiking. In today's world, where different types of outdoor poles are available, it is important to understand their features, the materials they are made of, and how to match them to your individual needs and terrain conditions.
At Sportano, we offer a wide selection of top-quality outdoor poles from renowned brands such as GABEL, Fizan, LEKI, Viking and Komperdell.Choosing the perfect hiking pole: features and materialsWhen choosing the ideal hiking pole, it is important to pay close attention to the features and materials it is made from to ensure optimal support and comfort during use. The basic material of trekking poles is aluminium or carbon fibre. Aluminium is prized for its strength and affordability, while carbon fibre is lighter and better at dampening vibrations, but is more expensive and less resistant to mechanical damage. There are also poles made of wood, which are more traditional and aesthetically pleasing, but heavier and less practical in difficult conditions.
A key feature of poles is their locking system, which allows the length of the pole to be adjusted. These systems can be bolt-on or snap-on, and the choice depends on the user's preference and requirements for speed and ease of adjustment. The grips of the poles are also important - they can be made from a variety of materials such as cork, EVA foam or rubber, each with its own advantages in terms of comfort and durability.
Wrist straps help to keep the poles in the hands and reduce the strain on the hands during long hikes. It is important that they are comfortable and easy to adjust. In addition, it is worth looking at the tips of the poles, which can be interchangeable and adapted to different types of terrain, from muddy paths to rocky trails.Comparison of trekking, folding and traditional polesTrekking poles are the most popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts. They are characterised by their adjustable length, which allows them to be adapted to the user's height and the type of terrain. They are usually equipped with cushioning systems to help reduce stress on the joints during hiking. They are the ideal poles for those looking for versatility and comfort.
Folding poles are distinguished by their ease of transport and storage. They can be quickly folded to a compact size, making them an ideal choice for travellers. They tend to be lighter than traditional trekking poles, but can offer slightly less stability and durability, which is an important factor to consider for heavy use.
Traditional poles made of wood are prized for their classic look and natural durability. Although they are heavier and do not usually offer adjustable lengths, they are the choice of traditional bushcraft enthusiasts and those who appreciate the aesthetics and natural character of the equipment.
How do I match poles to my needs and type of terrain? Matching poles to individual needs and type of terrain is key to maximising comfort and efficiency when hiking. First and foremost, it is important to pay attention to the length of the pole, which should be matched to the user's height. The ideal length allows the elbow to bend at about 90 degrees when gripping the pole. Many poles offer adjustable lengths to suit different conditions and activities.
The type of terrain you are walking on also has a significant impact on your choice of poles. For hard and rocky paths, it is advisable to choose poles with harder tips for better grip. On soft, muddy terrain, poles with larger plates will work better to prevent the pole from sinking into the soft ground.
In addition, it is worth paying attention to the material and construction of the pole. Lighter carbon fibre poles are ideal for long distances and intense hikes where every gram matters. Aluminium poles, on the other hand, are more durable and will perform better in difficult conditions.Techniques for using outdoor poles in different conditionsThe correct use of outdoor poles can significantly increase your comfort and safety when hiking, as well as helping you stay fit and avoid injury. The basic technique is to use the pole and the opposite leg simultaneously - when the right leg is forward, the left pole should be used and vice versa. This method helps to maintain balance and walking rhythm.
When walking uphill, the poles help to relieve pressure on the legs and distribute the effort to the upper body as well. The poles should be held a little shorter to allow them to be used effectively when pushing uphill.
When going downhill, a longer pole position will help with stability and reduce the strain on the knees. It is important not to rest your whole weight on the poles, but to use them to stabilise and distribute your body weight evenly.
In more difficult conditions, such as traversing muddy terrain, crossing streams or walking on slippery stones, poles become indispensable. They help to test the ground before taking a step and provide additional points of support, increasing safety and confidence in movement.
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