- Choosing the right poles , Nature hike , Our advice

Choosing the right hiking poles

When hiking, walking poles provide stability and security and help to reduce fatigue, the impact of walking on muscles and joints and to better distribute the effort across all four limbs. They open the rib cage for better oxygenation, less fatigue and more endurance.

They are particularly useful if you are hiking with a backpack or walking on uneven terrain (scree, snowfields, slopes, etc.).

The choice of poles will mainly depend on your frequency and type of practice.

sticks for occasional practice

For occasional use, a standard aluminum stick with a plastic flap adjustment system offers excellent value for money and will be durable.

Go crazy with color and design! The Altitude models, made in France, are the perfect companions for walks or day trips.

If you tend to walk long distances and do between three and five outings per year, choose poles made of high-quality aluminum or carbon, perfect for hybrid outings, combining efficiency, performance, and comfort.

sticks for regular practice

For regular practice, long outings, or trekking you will look for lightness and comfort with Hybrid poles in high quality aluminum and/or carbon, which have the property of absorbing vibrations like the models in the light range (B-Light and T3)

An ideally elongated foam or cork handle as well as a padded or sweat-wicking strap will complete your comfort.

The adjustment system, preferably aluminum, must be reliable (clamshell) and fast (Flashlock).

poles for roaming, trekking

If you're hiking for several days independently, sometimes with your poles attached to your bag, you'll appreciate that they're lightweight and very compact when folded.

You'll therefore opt for poles made mainly of carbon and with a Z-folding system. Our Flashlock range was designed for this use. Thanks to their small size, they'll slip very easily into your suitcase or backpack and follow you on all your adventures! Lightweight, they deploy quickly and easily.

We hope these tips have helped you choose your hiking poles.

bâton de randonnée pliable Guidetti Flashlock

What size poles should I choose?

Telescopic poles are suitable for everyone, regardless of their height, since they are adjustable.

On the other hand, folding poles can be tailored to your height or come in different sizes.

Here's an easy formula to determine the size of your poles on flat ground:
0.68 x your height in cm = pole size

  • At first, on flat ground, adjust your poles to your height. Your elbow should form a 90° angle and your forearm should be horizontal.

  • When climbing, reduce the size of your poles so that your elbow is always at a 90° angle.
  • When descending, increase the size of your poles by at least 5 centimeters.

Here is a diagram to help you find the ideal size for you.

Taille des pôles de randonnée Guidetti

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"I use Flashlock Ambre poles. Lightweight and compact, they accompany me on hikes in both summer and winter! When I need to use my hands, I fold the poles and clip them to my vest. The compact aspect is definitely an advantage."