Hiking and Walking Sticks

What are the sticks for?

Hiking poles distribute the effort between your legs and arms. When going downhill, they relieve your knees by absorbing some of the shocks; when climbing, they help push and maintain a steady pace. On unstable terrain, river crossings or snowfields, they provide two additional supports and improve balance, especially with a loaded backpack.

Hiking equipment

Hiking equipment also includes:

• Lighting, headlamps and lanterns.

All the equipment is gathered on the equipment page.

Telescopic or folding

The telescopic pole, like the TSL Classic or the Élémenterre, adjusts in height using a quick lever tightening system, the speed-lock, which is more reliable than older screw locks. The folding pole, like the Black Diamond Distance Z and Carbon Z, folds into three sections connected by a cable, like an avalanche probe: very compact, it fits into the backpack and is suitable for trail and fast hiking. Carbon is lighter, while aluminium bends rather than breaks under a strong impact.

How to adjust your poles

On flat ground, adjust the height so that your elbow forms a right angle when the pole is planted vertically. When climbing, shorten it a bit; when descending, lengthen it. The wrist strap should be held from underneath, so that your hand presses on the strap and not just on the handle. The cork handles absorb sweat, while foam is lighter. Change the rubber tips depending on the terrain: on asphalt, they reduce noise and slipping.

Good deals

Good deals can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and sent out within 24 hours. The key events of the year follow a consistent order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, winter sales, French Days in spring, followed by summer sales and the back-to-school season.

Frequently asked questions

What size hiking poles should I choose?

With the pole planted vertically near your foot, your elbow should form a right angle. Adjustable models can fit all sizes, while fixed poles are chosen based on their exact length according to your height.

Carbon or aluminium poles?

Carbon is lighter and absorbs vibrations better, making it popular for trail running and long distances. Aluminium is a bit heavier, bends instead of breaking under strong impacts, which makes it more durable in the mountains.

How should I hold my hiking poles?

Pass your hand through the strap from underneath, then grip the handle while pressing on the strap. This way, the effort goes through your wrist without squeezing the handle, which saves your forearms over time.

Which tip should I choose for my poles?

The carbide tip grips on dirt, rock, and ice. On asphalt or in the city, a rubber tip avoids noise and slipping, and a wide basket prevents the pole from sinking into snow or mud.

Do I need one or two hiking poles?

Two poles distribute effort symmetrically and offer better balance, especially when going downhill. One pole is sufficient for a leisurely stroll or to keep one hand free, but it provides less relief for the knees.