Trekking Tips

Back in the old days, when backpackers wore itchy, ragg wool socks (Which I still love and wear.), it was imperative to wear a silky liner sock against your skin. Those socks to some were like raping your feet in Brillo pads! But today’s fine merino wool feels luscious, and I never have problems (unless the boots don’t fit, and that’s another story!).

But some people experience perpetual friction inside their boots—whether it’s due to a bunion or a callous or some other quirky shape. And if that’s you, I’d recommend trying a thin liner sock, for sure. The idea is that the liner rubs against the wool, not your skin, and you’ll notice a big reduction in friction and hot spots. Liners are also great at wicking—consider them like base layers for your feet—so your feet stay drier, which also reduces the chance for blisters.

Check out our inexpensive sock liners to see if they solve your problem. Just be sure to size them properly: they should fit very snugly and smoothly, so there are absolutely no wrinkles or gapping, which will just exacerbate your problems.

Adjusting Trekking Poles for Efficiency on Varying Terrain

I found these tips on Backpacker Magazines tip site and couldn’t improve on the information.

Trekking poles are a great for security on sketchy terrain and they’ll keep your knees going on hard-charging decades of hiking. To get the most benefit on flats, up and down slopes, use adjustable- length poles. Like anything their poles should be adjusted correctly as you traverse the globe.

Here’s How:

On the Flat or rolling terrain:
Adjust the pole to elbow height so your forearm is roughly horizontal to the ground when holding the trekking pole. This allows for a natural stride, arm swing and decent propulsion.

For going up steep hill or mountain slopes:
Radically shorten your poles down to thigh height or as short as they will go. This allows for a nature arm position, energy saving and more security on steep slopes where scrambling with your hands would be awkward. If your poles are too long, you’ll be trekking in the stick’em up position. This is unstable and tough on your shoulders with a big load. It also makes you vulnerable to shoulder dislocations should you fall.

For Steep Descents:
Extend the poles to chest height. This allows you to reach down for secure pole placement while maintaining a balanced position.

Important Factors to Consider When Picking a Trekking Pole

Whether you are a hiker or simply love to go snowshoeing, you will find one of the most useful tools you can have with you is the trekking pole. When purchasing outdoor equipment, you will always find there are several things you need to consider and it is no different when picking a trekking pole. Trekking Poles come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and prices. If you are in the market for a new pole, here is a small list you should think about.

Should I use one or two poles?

Personal I find two poles are always better than one. When you use them in pairs, you will find you have better balance and they can take even more stress off from your knees and ankles. They spread out your weight even more, which means less strain on your legs.

Should I purchase adjustable height poles or non-adjustable?

Generally, this depends on what you will be using them for and if you plan to share your poles with others. If you are going to be the only one using them and the treks you take are usually in flat areas, the non-adjustable poles may be the best bet. However, if you sharing or you are taking treks in more rugged terrain, the adjustable height poles will be the better purchase. But, before you purchase, always test out the locking mechanism used to make sure you are safe during your treks.

Is there a preferred type and angle of grip?

Basically, the best way to tell which grip for you is to test each of them out. The grips come in several types, including foam, plastic, rubber, and cork. While you will find the rubber grip may be more expensive, it can also have the tendency to become a little slippery if your hands sweat. On the other hand, the foam may be more comfortable, but it will retain odor from sweaty palms. As for the angle of the grip, the straight grip may be more popular, but the angled grip will actually help your wrists from becoming tired. You will also want to consider the type of strap on the grip. If hiking in cold weather, make sure the strap itself can be adjusted, in case you are wearing heavy gloves. Again, the best way to determine which grip is right for you is to take the time to test each one out for its comfort.

Do I need to purchase anti-shock poles?

An anti-shock pole will actually reduce some of the shock you feel when the pole strikes the ground. This may be important to some, but what you must remember is that it will increase the weight of the pole. If you are unsure of whether or not the anti-shock system would benefit you, try it out for awhile and see if the weight actually distresses you more.

Do I need special tips or baskets?

This all depends on the type of trekking you are going to do. If you are hiking in the snow, a larger basket will actually help prevent the poles from sinking too deep in the snow, whereas the small baskets are make for hiking on dirt and rocky areas. As for the tips, they are usually made of carbide or steel. They help you to keep your traction and should come with rubber tips to protect them when they are stored or even for using in areas where you do not want the tips to penetrate.

Make a Gear List:

One of the ways I tell folks to help cut down on their pack weight is by making a gear list. Have a double check column next to each item in your list. One check column is used when you place the piece of equipment or clothing into your pack. That way you know that you haven’t forgotten anything. When you have returned home from your journey and unpack, use your list and check off everything you used during your outing. After each trip check what you have used or not used. If several items continue to not be used consider leaving them home next time. Of course items like a first aid kit and rain gear should always be packed with the hopes you never have to use them.