How to choose your first pair of TREKKING POLES for trail running
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Most of the time, we see people who go hiking or trekking carrying walking poles. Hiking poles usually extend by twisting and have a collapsed length of about 60 centimeters, so they are not very popular for trail running because they are inconvenient to carry. These types of poles are suitable for general use, light running or walking, and primarily for body support. Trail runners, on the other hand, prefer poles that fold to a length of about 30 centimeters and fold into a Z-shape (Z-Pole), with 3 to 4 sections, making them convenient to carry while running. Most trail runners store them on the front or back of their hydration pack or tuck them into their waist belt. These poles are therefore suitable for more demanding use, such as running or long-distance walking, and are exceptionally durable.
Why should we use a TREKKING POLE
Normally, when we climb hills, we use the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteus muscles quite extensively. People with stronger muscles in these areas can climb hills more easily. However, those with weaker muscles or those who have not trained their lower body muscles before will feel tired and fatigued more easily. Trail running poles canhelp push us forward, whether going uphill, downhill, or on flat ground. The poles reduce the use of the lower body muscles, making climbing up or down hills easier.
TREKKING POLE opening mechanisms
Poles are divided into two types of opening systems: MECHANICAL (with a mechanism) and NON-MECHANICAL (without a mechanism)
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Starting with the NON-MECHANICAL (without a mechanism) type, which uses a cord for locking. To extend the poles, you must pull the cord and use the cord knot to pull it into the lock. To collapse them, you must pull the cord knot out of the locking point before folding them up. The advantage of the NON-MECHANICAL (without a mechanism) type is that it is easy to maintain and lighter than the mechanical type.
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Next is the MECHANICAL (with a mechanism) type. This system includes both automatic opening and slide-and-lock types, requiring no pulling force. When collapsing, simply press the unlock button to fold them up. The advantage of the MECHANICAL (with a mechanism) type is that it is easy, convenient, and quick to open, while the disadvantage is that it weighs more than the NON-MECHANICAL (without a mechanism) type.
Materials of TREKKING POLES
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Regarding the materials of TREKKING POLES, two types are most popular: carbon material and aluminum material.
- Carbon material is lightweight and relatively expensive. The disadvantage of this material is that it can break easily. If used in cases of severe impact, it may break. Therefore, it is suitable for those who focus on performance or those with an unlimited budget.
- Aluminum material is heavier than carbon, but it is cheaper. Its strength is a highlight, as it can withstand heavy impacts well. However, if used in severe cases, it may bend. Therefore, it is suitable for those with a limited budget or those who are not serious about the weight of trail running poles.
Handle materials of TREKKING POLES
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Most commonly, there are two types: foam handles and cork handles.
- Foam handles are suitable for hot weather because they absorb sweat from the hands well. They are also lightweight and easy to grip without slipping out of your hands.
- Cork handles are moisture-resistant and suitable for hot weather and when your hands sweat a lot.
Sizing
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Raise your hand and bend your elbow to form a right angle with the ground. Then measure the length from your hand to the ground (cm). When measuring, it is recommended to wear trail shoes to get the actual height while using them. Once you have the length, compare it with the size chart of each brand.
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For those interested in purchasing products, you can click the links to order through Runnercart's channels below.
Website : http://bit.ly/runnercart
Shopee : https://shopee.co.th/runnercart
Lazada : http://bit.ly/RunnercartatLZD
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