Undoubtedly, a right pair of trekking poles has multiple benefits; especially the use of trekking poles can prove to be a great relief to strains typically brought about by walking across uneven and difficult terrain. However, the main advantages are safety and comfort. Experts believe that the use of telescopic poles relieves knee joints and the muscles of the legs. Not only this, but many scientific studies and research findings based on a mountain tour of 8-10 hours have clearly proved that the strain on the knees is reduced by up to 250 tons. Isn't it sounding great? Keep reading..

But ironically, the story doesn't seem to end with purchasing a quality pair of trekking poles, as you would like to use your pole in future with good working condition. So if you want to keep your poles working like new, they require frequent maintenance and care. Although, trekking poles require not so much maintenance but a little is necessary (and that little is significant here!). As a trekking pole owner, generally you encounter two main problems with your trekking poles i.e. internal corrosion and breakage. Internal corrosion is the most common problem you face and breakage may be common if you mostly use your pole in rocky surface. It is that simple!

But, certainly there are few simple things you can do to keep your poles safe and in good working condition.

Actually it is not very difficult to make proper care of poles because they are made of special alloys and really have less mechanism in theme. But if they have been left unattended for few months then some type of corrosion may appear. It is common. There is nothing unusual about it. Most commonly the outer surface of the pole spoiled rarely but the inner surface may be corroding (if left damp for long periods of time). So before storing your poles always make sure that their inner surface is not wet especially if you have used them in water (like while crossing a stream), as water or moisture inside the shaft can cause rust. To clean the poles take them completely apart and allow to air dry internally before being stored. If you detect any corrosion then wipe the threads with a soft cloth lightly moistened with WD-40 or alcohol (never use it over plastic and rubber parts).

No matter, whether you have used your trekking poles for a long period of time or just few hours, but it is important to dismantle the pole shaft by unlocking and pulling the sections apart to allow any condensation inside the tubes to dry after use. It is mostly recommended that you then leave the shaft dismantled in a dry place until they are completely dried. No need for artificial heating device, just allow them to dry naturally. Generally seen the outer surface of the pole rarely get affected, but as you know condensation can occur in the tubes of any aluminium alloy trekking pole. As a result there could be a little dampness, which can cause the metal surface to oxidise (you can easily spot it as a rough white marking). In the long run it could affect the smooth sliding of the shaft sections and the twisting of the plastic locking mechanism. As compared to poor quality poles made from cheaper materials, corrosion inside is less likely with better-quality poles that are anodized internally.

Put a trace of oil or, better, silicone grease on the threads to prevent additional corrosion. But, LEKI stresses that the poles should never have lubricants introduced into the pole shaft segments. It recommends that you should clean the inside of shafts with a coarse gun barrel brush or the LEKI cleaning brushes with adapter to remove any water, dirt, and oxidation residue. Similarly, a proper care should also be taken while storing poles in the cupboard. Store your poles separately in other compartment, if you store your pole under another things then the load may squeeze the shaft of your pole and can spoil height adjustment mechanism.

So to keep your poles working like new, regularly clean or/and dry the locking-bolts and inside the pole sections with a soft cloth. If the need be, clean with a nylon brush to remove any debris. The handles can be rinsed with water. Certainly some means of removing dirt, dust and corrosion spots from the inside sections would be a good thing. To reassemble, the locking bolt should be about halfway down on the thread, for ease of shaft entry.

Another reason of breaking the pole depends upon using conditions. Most commonly if the tip gets caught between rocks (for example) and the pole is then subjected to a sideways force (due to stumbling, etc). As such, care should be taken when using poles on very rocky ground. If you do break a section, most pole manufacturers have replacement sections available. Similarly, if you find any signs of wear and tear, replace them quickly with original fitments from the company or ask their technical persons to make the necessary repairs.

So guys, in the last but not the least, you should remember that it would be a better practice to keep all maintenance tips in mind before and after use of trekking poles to keep them in running or working condition all the time. Another important thing which almost every manufacture recommends is, do not lubricate inside the pole sections or the locking-bolts (which rely on friction locking), otherwise it may spoil the locking mechanism. And, for additional care and maintenance tips, read and follow the maintenance instruction from pole vendor.

Mats

www.mytrekkingpoles.com