I hiked 100 miles to find the best walking poles, here are my favourites

<p>Trekking poles can improve balance on uneven terrain and reduce stress on joints. Our seasoned adventurer put 10 to the test to find the best</p><p>• <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/thefilter/2024/oct/10/autumn-hiking-essentials-best-waterproof-jacket-flask-base-layer-backpack"><strong>‘I’d never head out without one’: 10 hiking essentials</strong></a></p><p>Oh, I would walk 500 miles – with the help of a trusty pole. A walking pole – or two – makes a surprisingly handy addition to your hiking kit, helping with balance on uneven terrain, taking strain away from your legs and knees, and making going up and down hills much easier. I first tried walking poles when I went trekking in the Himalayas – now, I wouldn’t be without one on rugged terrain, but they can be just as helpful on a casual stroll.</p><p>Hiking poles are typically used as a pair, and the idea is to swing each pole in time with the opposite foot as you move forwards: right foot and left pole, then left foot and right pole, in a rhythm. You can also use poles singly to keep a hand free or to take the weight off one side of your body.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/thefilter/2026/sep/29/best-walking-trekking-poles-uk">Continue reading...</a>