How To Use Hiking Sticks

Before heading out onto a hiking trail, you should first know how to use hiking sticks. Hiking sticks are not as commonly seen in the United States as they are in Europe. This is a real shame since knowing how to use hiking sticks can heighten your hiking experience.

1. Make sure your hiking stick fits. Having the right size of hiking stick is just as important as knowing how to use hiking sticks. A stick that stands about shoulder height will give you the best balance between comfort and usability.
2. Hold the hiking stick at a comfortable level. Everyone holds the hiking stick at the level that is most comfortable for them. It is usually around six to twelve inches from the top of the stick. Try walking with your arm at different levels to find the best placement for your hand.
3. Use the hiking stick as your third leg. When walking over tough terrain, use the stick to help you gain balance as you step. Think about it as always having at least two feet on the ground, one foot being your stick. Tough terrain is one place where the knowledge of how to use hiking sticks comes in very handy.
4. Think about other uses. Knowing how to use hiking sticks does not only apply to walking. A hiking stick can be used to bushwhack through deep brush, as a place to lean on when you need to rest and even as a weapon if you would ever need one.

Knowing how to use hiking sticks is an important part of hiking. Hiking sticks do more than just steady you on rough ground. Using a hiking stick can reduce pressure put on body joints and make your hike a more pleasurable and less painful experience.