HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR TRAIL POLES?

If running with poles has its advantages, it would be very easy to think that any pole would do. Yet there are a few technical features that will rank some poles well above the rest. Find all our tips for choosing your trail poles.

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Why run with trail poles?

Sticks are becoming more democratic and are invading the trails. And for good reason! Running with poles greatly facilitates the effort on the one hand, and protects the joints that are put to the test, on the other hand.

In fact, when running uphill, using poles transfers part of the effort to the upper body, which takes the strain off the lower muscles, while maintaining a good ascent speed.

On downhill, their main role will be to stabilise the runner. In addition, one can accentuate the forward movement of the torso without tilting because the poles serve to hold you back. Thanks to this posture, you also gain speed.

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Choosing a trail pole: the different types of handle

On the market, there are two types of grips made of: foam or cork. The former are generally the least expensive. For all that, their comfort is not to be denigrated. They are light, fit the hand well and absorb perspiration. Over time, however, this type of material can degrade.

Cork, on the other hand, is a natural material, and in that sense, more noble. Cork handles are particularly comfortable and they easily wick away perspiration. They are generally more expensive to buy and are therefore more suitable for regular runners than for beginners or occasional users.

On the other hand, the handle attachment is also an important criterion when choosing your trail poles. Regularly the subject of debate, the strap vs gauntlet argument animates the running world.

Straps are the basic equipment of any pole. Basic, certainly, but they still offer several advantages. In particular, they allow you to place your hand in different places, ensuring a variety of grip positions: on top of the handle, under the handle...

Gauntlets on the other hand aare a slightly more technical innovation, aimed at experienced trailers as one of their major advantages is time saving. Indeed, the gauntlets are small gloves that, by a very simple system, clip to the poles. This means that you never have to take off your gauntlets. Not to mention that the choice of a quality gauntlet contributes all the more to the comfort and efficiency of the system.

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Single-piece, foldable, telescopic: which trail pole to choose?

Once debated the choice between foam and cork, and between hand strap and gauntlet, will remain to choose its type of construction. Two compromises will have to be made: one concerning the shape, the other the material used.

Just like hiking poles, there are three types: the single-section trail poles, the telescopic trail poles and the 3-section trail poles. In other words, do you prefer a one-piece pole or a collapsible pole?

A one-piece trail pole is stronger than its foldable version. That's why it's intended for permanent use, i.e. if you run the entire race with your poles. On some portions, it will of course be possible to hold them in your hand, but on longer distances, they would be awkward.

For more occasional use, usually to support a rough section or to better manage the ascending elevation, a telescopic trail pole or a multi-piece will be more suitable. You can then store it in your bag as soon as you no longer need it.

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Choosing the right shaft for your trail pole

Other aspect that needs to be determined when choosing your trail poles: the type of material that makes up the shaft. This impacts on running comfort, stability and the effort generated.

Two main materials compete: aluminium and carbon. Aluminium, an economical material, is found in entry-level poles. They are, admittedly, a little heavier but above all very solid. 100% reliable, they can be used both up and downhill, as their supports are strong enough to stand up to the test.

Carbon is generally reserved for more high-end products. Lightweight, they are a pleasure to use as they don't cause extra fatigue. In addition, they are flexible enough to absorb as much vibration as possible, which makes them very comfortable. Nevertheless, this flexibility has a downside: it makes them more fragile and less durable over time.

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The tip of the pole: how important?

Surprisingly, even if it does not provide any particular comfort, the tip of the pole is the most important part. Simply because it is the only point of contact with the ground. It must therefore be precise but also resistant.

Last but not least, it must be changeable. Otherwise, you will be forced to buy a whole pole again. It is therefore advisable to find out about the availability of wearing parts before purchase.

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Choosing a trail pole in my size

If you're ordering remotely, size charts will advise you to multiply your size by 0.67, which is an estimated ratio. This means that your poles will come in at two-thirds of your size.

In the shop, you can more accurately try on trail poles in your size. To do this, you need to have the poles in your hand, with your arms at your side, and your elbow at a 90° angle. (This is the same basis of measurement applied to downhill ski poles.)

This applies to both one-piede and multi-piece trail poles. On the other hand, the telescopic trail poles are adjustable.

The choice of a trail pole is crucial to performance. A small discomfort at the beginning of the race (bad hand position, wrong size, irritating tissues, vibrations...) can turn into stabbing pains a few kilometres later. Hence the importance of carefully studying the characteristics of your trail pole before buying it.