August 10, 2022
Hiking poles which tip for which surface
Attachments for hiking poles
Trekking poles have four different buffers for tips. Which hiking pole tips are right for you depends on the terrain and the activity.
Asphalt tops
Asphalt tips are, as the name suggests, used on very hard surfaces. Concrete or asphalt surfaces damage the tip of the cane if used continuously. That is why there is a small black rubber shoe to protect the tip of your walking aid.
It makes no sense to combine rubber feet for asphalt with mud plates. The two components are for completely different terrain.
Important: Rubber tips are never used in the mountains! The rubber buffer on the tip of the pole prevents a proper grip!
Nordic Walking attachments
There are different attachments for Nordic walking poles. On the one hand there are the above-mentioned asphalt attachments, and on the other hand there are rubber bumpers that look like small shoes. Rubber bumpers for Nordic walking attachments are rounded on the underside. This makes it easier to walk quickly so that you can build up even more speed.
Nordic walking attachments can be used for different outdoor surfaces: Asphalt, meadow, gravel path and forest floor, if it is not too soft.
Mud tops
Mud plates prevent the pole from sinking into sand, earth or mud. In addition, the mud cap is an aid for the tip of the pole to prevent it from sinking too deeply into scree or slipping into small crevices and becoming trapped. Mud attachments for hiking poles have a screw thread and are screwed onto the tip of the pole.
Mud platter attachments for hiking poles have a smaller diameter than snow platters.
Snow attachments
Snow plates are specially made for the cold season. This pole attachment for winter can be used not only for walking in the snow, but also for snowshoe hiking.
Snow plates are used for touring, especially in winter. Whether you are a skier or snowboarder, hiking poles with snow plates will make your ascent much easier. If you are a snowboarder and do not use your poles for the descent, we recommend lightweight, foldable trekking poles that can be stowed in your rucksack during the descent.
Snow plates are screwed onto the tip of the pole in the same way as mud plates.
Attachment Use without rubber buffer
You shouldn't use attachments whenever you are walking on soft surfaces. This is, for example, the forest floor or snow.
You don't need any extra pads here, as the penetration of the tip provides significantly more grip. If the ground is too soft, use the plates again so that your pole tips don't get stuck. If the snow is powdery and you can sink into it, you would, for example, revert back to using the tips.
In this rather dry terrain, hiking poles without a tip are used. The tip provides sufficient grip. The hiking poles cannot sink in and therefore do not need a mud cap.
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Using hiking poles correctly: How hiking poles really make a difference
Hiking poles are not just for older people. Hikers of every age group benefit from the use of sticks. With the right walking technique, they can provide the best possible support for your footwork and your sense of balance. Trekking poles also help protect your joints.
However, there are a few points to consider when using it, which we will show you in the following blog post.
When should you use hiking poles? use?
Hiking poles are a valuable companion on every hike. Using poles is particularly worthwhile when ascending and descending. They reduce your effort and the strain on you
- muscles,
- Tendons
- and joints.
But even in difficult terrain, you'll always be ahead with trekking poles. Especially on slippery, rocky or muddy terrain they offer you best possible hold and prevent slipping.
Are you more of a video type? No problem, we go into the topic in detail in our buying advice
Video advice on hiking poles " How to find the right hiking poles
What are the benefits of using hiking poles?
Experienced and sure-footed hikers can use sticks to relieve the strain on their knees and improve their balance. Nevertheless, the body should have the opportunity to move freely (without sticks) often enough to train the sense of balance.
If theTelescopic hiking poles If they are not currently being used, they should fit loosely in the hand and be held in the middle. Then they don't bother you.
Can you also use hiking poles when hiking in the snow?
Yes! Included in our delivery Telescopic and folding poles are various attachments included. The so-called snow plates are primarily designed for use in the snow. So nothing stands in the way of a winter hike in the snow. Also in the other seasons can Trekking poles Good luck to you services afford. The attachments can be replaced in no time at all and offer you the right grip in any weather and surface:
- Snow plates are ideal for hiking in the snow.
- Asphalt attachments are suitable for use on hard surfaces.
- Poles without rubber buffers have proven themselves effective on dry mountain terrain. (If there is a lot of rubble, you can also use the mud attachments to prevent sinking.
- Mud inserts are ideal for sand, earth and mud.
- Nordic walking attachments make it easier to walk quickly on solid surfaces.
Hiking properly with poles: These techniques exist
As is well known, many paths lead to the goal. This also applies to the walking stick technique. The following three techniques are used:
1 The Diagonal Technique:
This technique is coming in moderate terrain for use. These include mostly flat routes with slight inclines.
- As you are used to when walking, your arms and legs move in opposite directions.
- If your left leg is in front, the right stick is used - and vice versa.
You can use this diagonal technique quite intuitively.
2. the double deck operation:
With the Double deck technology you are well looked after on steep terrain.
- Both sticks are placed clearly in front of the body and feet.
- Then you go through them in two to four steps.
- On steep cross paths, it is advisable to hold the poles at different heights: on the mountain side below the handle - on the valley side you can lean on the knob.
3. the side plank method:
This method is used in extremely steep terrain.
- Here you have to hold one stick or both sticks.
- You grip the pole with your hand on the uphill side near the tip of the pole and with your hand on the downhill side around two thirds of the length or at the handles.
- Then place the tip in front of your body (to the side and about hip height) on the slope.
- The uphill arm is stretched and the body is supported on this side, the other hand presses the poles against the slope.
- You take two steps, then the whole thing repeats itself.
Expert tip: On the descent you score with thesticks The only way to relieve the strain on your knees is to place them parallel to your body. You bring your upper body forward and your legs are bent so that you can then place the sticks far forward and down.
This stick use is only done every two to three steps. If there is a steep gradient, the hiking poles need to be adjusted a little longer on the descent.
When should trekking poles not be used?
In rocky terrain that is at risk of falling, the sticks should be kept in placeOutdoor backpack be. They absolutely do not belong on your wrists. Anyone who has hiking poles on the outsidebackpack attached, care should be taken to ensure that the poles are attached correctly. Otherwise they can become an obstacle.
Stock grinding
The loops of theHiking poles should really only be used on completely flat terrain. Otherwise, if your hands are in the pole loop and you stumble, you will be "tied" and unable to hold on or support yourself.
Conclusion
If hiking poles are used correctly, they are a valuable support on every tour. Even though the diagonal technique does not require any prior knowledge and is used intuitively, it should not be used on every terrain. Especially on steep terrain, you should opt for double-pole use or the side support method.
FAQ
Can I also use hiking poles on steep mountain descents?
Yes, of course you can use hiking poles downhill. Hiking poles are also helpful equipment for steep descents. Here it is best to use the side support method, as described above.
Use one or two hiking poles?
You have to decide for yourself whether you take one or two hiking poles. For longer hikes and with appropriate luggage, experience has shown that it is advisable to take two poles. However, for shorter trips in flatter terrain, you can easily go out with a trekking pole.
How do I store my hiking poles when I'm not using them?
If you don't need your hiking poles, they are best kept in your backpack. Telescopic poles can be pushed together in just a few steps.
You can fold foldable hiking poles in no time. Thanks to their small pack size and weight, both models fit into any hiking backpack.
Would you like to know more about hiking poles? Read more here: