What is a telescopic section hiking pole?
As you decide on which hiking poles to purchase,
one of the features you will need to consider is whether or not you will
need a pole that has the ability to adjust its length. Known as both
telescopic poles and adjustable poles (telescopic sections referring to the
pole’s ability to go into itself like a telescope), these sticks have
different benefits that may make them preferable to those that are going to
go out on a long hike or walk.
Benefits of an Adjustable Length Pole
·
Poles that can be reduced inside are
much easier to store with you when you are on your walk. Should you want to
stop using the pole temporarily, for example, you can reduce its length
dramatically (often to around 2 feet) and stick the pole in your backpack of
by your side. Poles that do not reduce in length will hang from wherever you
are storing it and may get caught in the terrain.
·
Adjustable length poles are far more
likely to be the perfect length for your everyday use, since you can simply
add or subtract inches if you need additional pole to help make your hike
more comfortable. In addition, if you are climbing uphill you may want your
pole to be shorter than if you are climbing downhill and using the pole for
balance, depending on the way you trek.
·
Poles that are going to be used by more
than one individual are going to clearly benefit from a hiking pole that can
change its size, so that anyone that ends up using the pole can adjust it to
a more comfortable fit.
Weaknesses of Adjustable Length Poles
·
Because these poles are not entirely
straight and connected (meaning, there is some “give” implied by the fact
that these poles can be compressed), they may represent a danger for
particularly large/heavy men and women, as the pressure from their weight
could push the pole into itself. This could result in injury depending on
the area you are climbing or walking.
·
It can be difficult to change the
length of some of these poles due to the method of locking it in place –
often with a screw or some type of difficult to handle metal object.
·
Two telescopic section poles do not
compress to as small a size as three section poles, so depending on the type
of pole you purchase, it may not compress to a suitable size for you.
In addition, telescopic section poles are generally
more expensive, and may not represent a cost that is worth the benefits,
especially if you can find a single length pole that is suitable for most of
your needs. Comfort and safety are still the most important aspects of any
pole to consider. Still, there are many benefits of using an adjustable
hiking pole, and if these benefits will help make your trek more pleasant,
they may be worth the nominal cost increase.
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