What Is the Purpose of Hiking Poles?
Hiking poles can be of great benefit no matter how easy or difficult a hike might be. They help keep stress off the knees, which reduces knee pain, as well as helping to maintain balance on hills and rugged terrain. They can also improve traction on soft or snow-covered ground, and may lead to increased endurance by taking strain off the legs. Finally, they can increase hill-climbing power by providing impetus against the forces of gravity.
