Outdoor Blog

How to Adjust a Trekking Pole

Published

5 years ago

November 10, 2019

Hikers and trekkers who frequently tackle different terrain or regularly traverse difficult types of terrain know about the knee and back pain that can develop after repeated bending of the upper body to scramble over rocks on otherwise flat terrain or going uphill just to go downhill later on mountainous trails. Well-seasoned hikers have probably already found the best method for a straight upper body in the ultralight carbon fiber trekking poles that have become nearly ubiquitous on really challenging hiking trails all over the world.

The low-tech cousin of trekking poles, a hiking stick or walking stick found on the forest floor and employed as a load-bearing crutch, should be relatively familiar to anyone who was lucky enough to spend the majority of their childhood in the great outdoors. Trekking poles, especially adjustable-length trekking poles with features like carbide tips and wrist straps, have built on the simple utility of that wooden walking stick and saved the knees of many a trekker from giving out in the middle of a hike.

Trekking poles are fairly easy to figure out. They’re a huge relief for many hikers who find their knees sore or in sharp pain during or after trekking for an extended period. Because load-bearing trekking poles take some of the pressure off the knees, hikers’ knees are not in so much pain after a long hike. Hiking poles can also help hikers with balance issues on slick surfaces while going uphill or just on flat terrain covered in a friction-reduced substance like sand.

The part of using trekking poles that’s less obvious is the need to adjust the height not only to the height of the user but also to various different heights based on the elevation grade and the material of the trail being traversed. Maybe the popular conception is that walking sticks are for old people, but any hikers with a long trail back to the campsite after a long day spent going uphill over different terrain and then going downhill over several new types of terrain will be glad to have a pair of trekking poles along with them.

You’ll definitely want to read through this guide to learn more about trekking poles and their application in the backcountry because knowing how to adjust a trekking pole will probably save your life (okay, probably just your knees) one of these days.

A hiker sitting on a mountain overlooking a valley and mountains.

Trekking poles allow hikers and backpackers to maintain a straight upper body through all sorts of different terrain.

Selecting the right trekking poles

Before we get into adjustable lengths and the shock-absorbing features to be on the lookout for in trekking poles, it’s important to note that hikers and backpackers interested in the added support of load-bearing trekking poles need to select trekking poles that are the correct height for them. To find trekking poles that are the correct height, stand on flat ground and hold your arms at your side with your elbows bent at 90-degree angles. Your thumbs should be facing up. Keep your upper body completely straight. The correct height of a trekking pole is the distance from the top of your palms to the ground. The top of the handle should fit in your palm in this position, more or less reaching hip-level.

IN	CM
<5 ft 1	<154	100 cm
5 ft 1 – 5 ft 7	154-171	110 cm
5 ft 8 – 5 ft 11	172-182	120 cm
6 ft +	183 +	130 cm

As you get used to hiking with trekking poles, you’ll also get a feeling for what size hiking poles work best for you. Keep in mind the types of terrain you generally hike on most. For hiking trails with lots of roots or rocks to walk over, a slightly shorter trekking pole might be advantageous. Of course, the benefit of adjustable trekking poles is that they can be shortened for different terrain or any other purpose that calls for it.

Construction material of trekking poles

Sleek carbon fiber hiking poles are generally designed to be ultralight as easy to attach to the outside of a rucksack, but that might not be the most important consideration for every hiker. Walking poles made with aluminum are heavier but generally more durable. Depending on hikers’ person preference, a sturdier walking pole might be more desirable than the ultralight carbon fiber variety. Aluminum is probably the better construction material for first-time trekking pole users, as hikers who aren’t used to hiking or backpacking with trekking poles may mistakenly be putting too much weight on them while going downhill. It would be a shame for a hiker to abandon the very beneficial use of trekking poles because an ultralight carbon fiber trekking pole snapped during rough or incorrect usage. Trekking poles are designed to be load-bearing but that doesn’t mean they will necessarily support the entire weight of a hiker.

Hikers selecting new trekking poles should also look at the material used to build the wrist straps and the pole tips. Pole tips are usually built with a soft and shock-absorbing material. Rubber tips are the most common and provide nice shock-absorbing protection. Frequently manufacturers like Black Diamond and Leki design their trekking poles to have interchangeable carbide tips that can be used on more rugged terrain. The carbide tips can dig into more rugged types of terrain for added stability but hikers should keep in mind that this will affect the pole length and should be factored in when adjusting the pole height.

A hiker standing on a snow-covered mountain.

Slippery terrain like snow-covered mountains often require carbon fiber adjustable-length trekking poles to traverse them successfully.

Types of locks on adjustable-length trekking poles

There are a few different ways manufacturers have designed the locks at fix adjustable-height trekking poles at the height hikers set them for. The decision between the various locks is mostly up to personal preference. Some hikers swear by one or the other lock as sturdier and firmer, but it’s up for debate. Some trekking poles fasten with a twist lock, which functions like any twist-top gear. Imagine twisting the lid off a thermos and you have the idea. Turn it left to open the twist lock and turn it the other way to fix it at a certain height. Twist lock trekking poles are generally less expensive and some hikers are big fans.

Clamp locks are the other most common variety of fixing trekking poles at the correct height. Clamps are basically rings that loosen enough to resize adjustable poles and tighten to fix trekking poles at the correct height. The clamp flips up to loosen and snaps back in place to close. Clamps are designed to fit flush to the trekking pole to secure them at the right height to keep the upper body straight and weight off of hikers’ knees.

Many hikers swear by clamp locks because they think they fix the pole height more securely. Some complain that twist locks can jam or get stuck in the lock position. Hikers who prefer twist-lock hiking poles claim clamp locks can open easily if the clamp is caught on something during the hike, while hikers who prefer clamp locks to twist-lock trekking poles claim that twist-lock trekking poles are hard to twist closed and tend to open up on the trail as well. Obviously, a hiking pole opening in the middle of a trek is a huge annoyance but neither the twist-lock or the clamp lock will have a 100% no-open rate for its entire lifetime.

One claim about twist-lock trekking poles that is worth considering is that they are more difficult to grip with gloves on, so snowy environments tend to be easier with clamp lock trekking poles. Clamp locks are slightly bulkier so ultralight backpackers and hikers might be better off with twist-lock models. Clamp locks also feature screws that need to be tightened once a while, but it’s a simple chore that can be done at home when necessary. Hikers just breaking into the trekking pole market might want to start with twist-lock trekking poles and see if they cause any undue annoyance on the trail.

Adjustable-length trekking poles are equally handy for hikers traveling over flat ground.

How to use trekking poles

Some common misconceptions about trekking poles are that they are for older hikers or will cost hikers on the trail too much time to adjust when moving through different terrain. For this reason, like other skills built backpacking and hiking in the great outdoors, the use of trekking poles should be undertaken slowly. Your body will need to adjust to the use of trekking poles. The upper body might be in some pain the first time you use trekking poles if you’re using them as load-bearing crutches and putting too much weight on them. Hikers often make this mistake when going uphill and going downhill. Hiking with walking poles in your hand will take some getting used to, to say nothing of the proper techniques to use with trekking poles.

The key to using trekking poles successfully is to hike at an easy pace, paying special attention to your upper body and posture as you move over various types of terrain. Plant the trekking pole a little bit ahead of where you plan to place your footstep and follow the trekking pole naturally with your feet before removing the trekking pole from the ground and placing it for the next step. This process will engage your arms and shoulders much more than walking without adjustable trekking poles, so you might feel some soreness at the beginning. Don’t take giant steps and stab your trekking poles deep into the ground. Take it nice, slow, and easy, especially when you first start out.

How many trekking poles should I use?

It may seem like a no-brainer, but there are some advantages and disadvantages to hiking with one trekking pole versus hiking with two trekking poles. Some hikers might pack three trekking poles in case one of them breaks during the hike. When you first start using trekking poles, you should absolutely try using two before you switch to one. Using just one walking pole will work out one side of your body (probably your favored side) so it’s always better to switch off which hand you carry it in. If you’re the type of hiker who only uses the trekking pole when going downhill or making difficult river crossings and traversing different terrain, then one trekking pole might suffice for you.

How to adjust a trekking pole

The vast majority of trekking pole manufacturers included millimeter pole height rulers on the lower section of the trekking pole. As you learn how your particular use of trekking poles works out, you’ll start to know a few lengths that you use according to personal preference. Always maintain the walking poles at a length that allows for the handle to sit comfortably in the palm of your hand and still reach the ground easily over different types of terrain. Rocky terrain traversed while going uphill or going downhill may require one or both of your trekking poles to be adjusted to a shorter length to compensate for objects on the ground in different terrain. Flat ground won’t require much adjustment of the pole height if it requires any at all.

Adjusting the height of the poles is pretty intuitive. Undo the clamp lock or the twist-lock and then hold the trekking pole by the lower section in one hand and the top of the handle in the other. Push toward the center of the walking pole with both hands and the trekking pole should slide into itself. Look at the ruler if you’re adjusting the height of the poles to a specific number. If you’re trying to adjust the height of the poles to a specific type of terrain, you can always undo the clamp or twist-lock and place the pole tips on the ground and adjust to the correct height by pushing the trekking pole into the ground until it feels right. If you use this method, remember to keep your arms at a 90-degree angle while adjusting the height of the poles to make sure and get them to the correct height.

It’s probably going to be easier to adjust the pole height of each trekking pole individually, especially when you first start out. Getting to know what height suits your personal preference will take many hiking trips, so don’t despair if you’re caught adjusting the height of the poles really frequently on your first time out. Try alternating between carbide tips and rubber tips and see if one or the other accommodates usage of the trekking poles at your personal preference for pole height.

Adjustable trekking poles frequently come with added design features like cork handles that will stay in your grip better. Without slippage on the top of the handle, you’ll be able to get a much more accurate feel for your personal preference of pole height. Using something like a snow basket, which is what they called a plastic or metal ring that fastens to the pole tips and makes traversing snowy and icy types of terrain much easier, will require different pole heights as well for comfortable use.

Two people hiking through the mountains.

Different types of terrain require different pole lengths, so hikers should make sure they can adjust the height of the poles before heading out.

Final Verdict:

Adjustable trekking poles are versatile and pain-sparing tools for trekkers, backpackers, and hikers. Some studies have shown that they increase the speed at which hikers can travel. Every trekker who has used an adjustable trekking pole knows it makes traversing different types of terrain much easier and saves hikers’ knees from overexertion and next-day pain. Hikers with balance issues will feel much more capable and able to traverse different terrain and river crossings if they have trekking poles along with them.

Some hikers have even come up with ingenious alternate uses for adjustable height trekking poles, like using them like a tent pole to make a one-person lean-to tent with a tarp. There are some hikers and backpackers who prefer to travel without trekking poles, but it’s really up to personal preference. Many hikers don’t go on long hikes without their trekking poles.

The most important feature of adjustable height trekking poles is obviously their adjustable height, so hopefully, this guide was able to illuminate the method for doing so. Now that you have a better idea about methods of use for your trekking poles, get back out on the trail with confidence in your balance, added strength, and increased speed, all gained from knowing how to adjust a trekking pole.

Bonus tip: Watch this instructional video for a quick overview of how to use trekking poles!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter