| Why use
Trekking poles?
Trekking poles have become very popular with hikers, hill-walkers
and technical mountaineers. When used properly, they can aid in balance
and overall walking efficiency.
How to use them:
Firstly it is recommended that you use two poles and not just one
to walk with. The reason for this is that if used singularly and especially
while wearing a backpack, an imbalance in the shoulder muscles occur
which can cause pain and cramping.
They therefore should be
used as pairs and adjusted to the same height. When hiking on level
ground, adjust the length of the poles so that when your upper arm
is hanging straight down and your hand is on the handle, your forearm
should be parallel with the ground.
When climbing up a steep
slope, shorten the length so that the same rule applies, and lengthen
them when descending a steep slope. When descending one can lengthen
the pole, but do not exceed the max limit shown on the inside slider,
or the strength of the pole will be compromised. For best use, at
any angle, place your hands through the wrist straps and allow your
arm to rest in them, while only lightly holding the handle-grip.
Some manufacturers supply
rubber caps that fit over the bottom spike. These protect the spike
when walking over rock and reduce erosion on paths.
There are basically
two Locking mechanism systems:
Expanding Cone Type
The more common type has an expanding cone, where when twisted the
cone expands into the tube of the larger outer shaft. These work well,
but are prone to corrosion and breakages. If you are in the field
and a shaft section in broken, bent or the mechanism fails, the entire
pole is useless.
“Flick-Lock"
system
A better system is that used by Black Diamond called the “Flick-lock”
system. On this system, a simple clamp is used on the outer, larger
shaft of each section. It is not prone to malfunction and it means
that if a shaft is bent or broken in-field, the damaged section can
be broken off and then re-inserted into the larger shaft and locked
again - a huge advantage on longer trips in remote locations. Black
Diamond can also supply any spare parts including new Flick-locks
and bottom spikes and snow baskets.
Maintenance
After use pull the shafts out and clean the locking mechanism with
soap and water. Then dry properly and oil any moving parts and replace
the pieces together again.
In the case of twist lock
systems: when in the completely closed position, do not twist
and tighten the mechanisms, as it makes it difficult to release.
|
