Trail running poles: useful or not?

Trail running poles will mainly help you save energy and gain speed during your run. On the descents, they will give you more stability and balance. They will help you overcome obstacles or brake while relieving your quadriceps. But it is obviously on the climbs that they will show their full usefulness and will quickly become your best ally!

You can of course press your thighs with your arms to help you on the climbs. But poles are much more effective!

In alternate mode (alternate right/left pole) on steep slopes, you will gain speed.

In "double push" mode (plant both poles simultaneously in front of you), you maximize your power.

Depending on the pole model, you will lean on the straps (without squeezing the handles) to gain power and comfort. With long handles, you can adapt your grip position to the slope: when climbing, you will hold your pole much lower than when descending to have a more effective push.

If you decide to equip yourself with poles, choose a model adapted to your practice:

• For vertical kilometers, opt for ultralight single-section poles. When you're not using them, you can hold them in your hand by their middle without them weighing you down.
  
  
• For short trails, choose lightweight, foldable poles. Aluminum can be suitable.
  
  
• For medium or ultra trails, choose very light carbon poles with a quick folding/unfolding system. This will give you greater comfort and speed when refueling or changing elevation. Detachable wrist straps will also be a plus.

While poles may seem of little use on flat terrain and over short distances, they are almost essential for distances of more than 40 km. Try them out and make up your own mind!