Trekking poles are great, if not essential, pieces of gear for all sorts of activities. As such, their design and utility varies greatly. While some hiking poles are fixed length, like ski poles, many ...

Let’s take a moment to admire the unassuming hero of our powder days: the ski pole. Ski poles are the uncelebrated champion of skiing. They aren’t as critical as ski boots or bindings and nowhere near ...

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› By Trey French Trey French is a writer focused on outdoor gear. He has tested ...

Which trekking poles are best for hiking? The perfect companion for a steep uphill climb, dangerous water crossing or slippery patch of snow, a sturdy pair of trekking poles can be a literal lifesaver ...

Poles are an under-appreciated piece of skiing equipment. They help with balance and timing, two keys to dynamic skiing. A solid pole plant is essential to navigating mogul fields, tight trees and, ...

In my early days of thru-hiking, I was vehemently against carrying trekking poles. I saw them as unnecessary, something that my parents or grandparents would use. In short, I regarded them as ...

The time to start hiking with trekking poles was yesterday. This simple piece of outdoor equipment extends your limbs, giving you more power and stability on the trails. They lessen the impact on your ...

Back in October, a buddy and I hiked the 23-mile Sandia Mountain traverse that goes up and over the entire length of the range outside of Albuquerque, New Mexico. For the first 15 miles I felt great.