Hiking Poles

Of course! At decathlon.com.gr you will find a full range of trekking poles that will offer you maximum comfort, safety, and protection. The collection includes models from popular brands like Quechua and Forclaz, ranging from affordable foldable poles for beginners to professional models for experienced mountaineers. Whichever pole you choose, one thing is for certain: you will love the top quality-to-price ratio and enjoy safe and comfortable routes on the mountain.

Trekking poles act as an extension of your arms, creating additional points of contact with the ground that significantly improve your stability and balance on uneven terrain. By using poles during your hikes, you transfer part of the weight from your knees and joints to your upper body, reducing strain and the risk of slipping. The right mountaineering equipment allows you to maintain a steady walking pace, while telescopic poles provide critical support during descents, acting as a "brake" for the body. By using them, your center of gravity remains more controlled, making trekking poles the ultimate tool for your safety on every outdoor excursion.

To set the correct height for trekking poles, when holding the handle and the tip touches the ground, your elbow should form a 90° angle, ensuring maximum ergonomics. An equally useful trick is to multiply your height by 0.68 to find the ideal height in centimeters for the pole. If you use telescopic poles, remember to shorten them by 5-10 cm on uphill sections for better push and lengthen them accordingly on downhill sections for increased stability and knee protection. Properly adjusted mountaineering equipment improves your body posture and reduces fatigue, making trekking much more restful and safe.

The basic difference between telescopic and fixed poles lies in adaptability and portability. Telescopic poles offer the ability to adjust the height according to the slope of the terrain, and they are ideal for trekking as they fold easily and can be stored in a backpack. On the other hand, fixed trekking poles are often preferred for trail running due to their extremely low weight and rigidity. If you are looking for versatility for different terrains, adjustable equipment allows you to shorten the poles on the ascent and lengthen them on the descent for maximum stability.

The choice between aluminum and carbon poles depends on whether your priority is durability or minimum weight. Aluminum (usually 7075) is extremely robust, withstands high pressure without breaking, and is the most reliable solution for rugged, rocky terrain and heavy mountaineering equipment. On the other hand, carbon fiber is the top choice for trekking as it is very light and absorbs vibrations, protecting your wrists from fatigue on long routes. If you are a beginner or move on very uneven ground, aluminum offers a longer lifespan, whereas if you seek maximum performance and a light feel, carbon poles will elevate your mountain experience.

To properly adjust your trekking poles, start by unlocking the mechanism and adjust the length so that, while holding the handle, your elbow forms a 90° angle with the ground. If your pole has three sections, make sure to extend them equally to maintain maximum stability and strength of the shaft under pressure. Uphill, it is better to shorten your mountaineering equipment by a few centimeters for easier push, while downhill you should lengthen them to keep your torso upright. Finally, ensure that the wrist straps are adjusted so that your hand enters from the bottom up, offering a relaxed grip without over-tightening the handle during trekking.