These are the things you need to consider. Climbing sticks have various shapes and lengths. The best climbing stick is the one that best suits your needs, so the following 5 points should be considered when purchasing climbing sticks.
1. Length
This is one of the most important factors in selecting climbing sticks.
If hiking on flat terrain, use a fixed length climbing stick. But most climbing sticks are adjustable and can be changed in length according to your needs.
Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the length of the climbing stick matches your height before purchasing it. Because too long or too short will bring unnecessary pressure to your upper body.
Most climbing sticks extend up to 137 cm. This maximum length is usually suitable for people who are more than 182cm tall, while the lower limit (about 100cm) is suitable for people who are 120cm and below.
2. Fixed or adjustable
In addition to the total length, storage is also important.
According to the storage mode, it can be divided into telescopic climbing pole and folding climbing pole.
The telescopic type is often more rigid, and is very suitable for complex terrain.
The folding climbing stick is suitable for one-day hiking or UL, and is usually divided into two or three folding sections.
3. Material and weight
The material significantly affects its weight.
Climbing sticks are traditionally made of aluminum, which is cheap, strong and has better bending resilience.
Carbon fiber is a lighter, but more expensive alternative. Newer climbing sticks are usually made of this material.
They are very good for super light hikers, but they are not cost-effective, and may crack or even break under high pressure.
4. Handle
The handle is usually made of three different materials: rubber, cork and foam.
Cork handles are very suitable for hiking in warm climates. They are not as soft as foam grips, nor as easy to absorb water as foam.
Rubber is usually used in colder climates, has excellent insulating properties, and is more suitable for use with gloves
However, when used in a warm place, the rubber grip can scratch your palm and cause blisters.
5. Locking and other functions
Climbing sticks usually use twist locks (internal locks) or lever locks (external locks).
Other functions to be considered include shock absorption, as well as the tip and mud basket attached to the climbing stick.
External locks and climbing sticks without shock absorption are preferred, because they are easier to repair and maintain and lighter in weight.
In the past, people believed that climbing sticks were just fancy accessories. This is obviously a wrong idea. I believe you have understood that learning to use the climbing stick correctly will make your hiking safer and more enjoyable.
