Hiking gear

Walking poles

Walking poles relieve the knees on descents, help to push off when going uphill, and stabilize in tricky passages. Telescopic models, like the Leki Legacy Lite or TSL, adjust with a quick clamp; folding models, like the Black Diamond Distance Z or Carbon Z, fold into three segments and pack away in the bag. On flat terrain, they are adjusted so that the elbow forms a right angle, shorter when going uphill, and longer when going downhill.

The selection

The equipment is organized by type:

• Walking poles, telescopic or folding.
• Lighting, headlamps and lamps.

The hiker also equips themselves with shoes, backpacks, men's clothing, women's clothing, children's clothing, accessories, trekking gear, on the hiking page.

Safety and camping

The emergency whistle, like the one from Élémenterre, carries much further than the human voice: the distress signal in the mountains consists of six blows per minute, followed by a minute's pause. The headlamp stays in the bottom of the bag, even for a day trip, in case of delays. For camping, lightweight cookware from Trespass, the insulated cup from Stanley, and the solar shower from Élémenterre provide a bit of comfort. The washers and tips from Leki or Trespass are replaced when worn out.

Choosing carbon or aluminium

Carbon, as seen on the Black Diamond Carbon Z, makes the pole lighter and absorbs vibrations better, but it is more fragile in case of a side impact. Aluminium is tougher and more affordable, bending instead of breaking. The cork handles, like those on the Élémenterre Apagado, fit the hand and absorb sweat. The strap is adjustable so that the hand presses against it, rather than gripping the handle.

Bargains and new arrivals

The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, the promos feature discounted items, and the clearance sale includes last season's stock. Items shipped within 24h are prepared and sent out in 24 hours.

Frequently asked questions

How high should you adjust your hiking poles?

On flat terrain, the elbow should form a right angle when holding the handle, with the tip at ground level. They are shortened for uphill and lengthened for downhill to maintain good support.

What is the difference in durability between carbon and aluminium poles?

Carbon is lighter and absorbs vibrations better, but can snap easily under a lateral shock. Aluminium, slightly heavier, bends rather than breaks: a robust choice for intensive use.

What is the distress signal in the mountains?

The international distress signal consists of issuing six signals per minute, either auditory or visual, followed by a minute's pause; the response is three signals per minute. A whistle and a headlamp are sufficient.

What power headlamp is suitable for hiking?

A low-powered lamp is enough for camping; for walking at night on a trail, aim for more lumens with a wide beam and a long-range mode. Always bring spare batteries or a backup battery.

What cookware should you take for camping?

A lightweight pot that serves as a saucepan and bowl, a cup, compact cutlery, and an insulated bottle like those from Stanley. Collapsible utensils save space in the bag.