Aluminium alloy is often said to offer a good compromise between strength and lightness, for an optimum value-for-money ratio. Let's break down point by point the advantages and characteristics of aluminium hiking and trail poles.
To make the most of all the benefits offered by proper use of walking poles, it is important to choose them carefully and think through each of their components. From grip to tip, through the shaft and wrist straps, every part of a trekking pole has a specific role to play — and for each part to do its job properly, it is essential that the hiker chooses the one best suited to their practice, needs and level.
And the shaft is no exception. What are the characteristics of telescopic, fixed and foldable poles? What are the advantages of single-section poles and multi-section poles? Which system suits me best — screw-lock or clip-lock? These are all questions the hiker needs to ask. When it comes to materials, the choice is often between aluminium and carbon. In this article, we focus exclusively on the advantages and characteristics of aluminium alloy.
Aluminium poles: which sport?
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Nordic walking:
Aluminium poles are absolutely not recommended for nordic walking. Why? Because they do not absorb vibrations and poorly dampen the impact between the tip and the ground. In nordic walking, the poles make contact with the ground at a regular, sustained pace. The walker may therefore quickly experience discomfort, pain or even injury — in particular, tendinitis.
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Hiking and trail:
In hiking and trail, the load can sometimes be heavy and poles are more prone to impacts of all kinds. It is therefore important that the shaft is more solid than for nordic walking and can withstand high pressure. For this reason, aluminium is an excellent choice. Built-to-last, aluminium almost never breaks — it can bend, but you can be virtually certain it won't snap, making it particularly durable. Bear in mind that not all aluminium shafts are equal. In recent years, Aluminium 7075 has proven itself: extremely resistant, it also represents a good compromise between strength and lightness.
Aluminium poles: weight
Sturdy, trail and hiking poles must also be lightweight. It goes without saying that to perform better during a race or trek, go faster and further, your poles need to be as light as possible. The weight of a pair of aluminium hiking poles generally varies between 500 and 650 grams, i.e. Between 250 and 325 grams per pole. Aluminium 7075 poles are generally the lightest — a good aluminium pole rarely exceeds 280 grams. Weight also depends on the storage system and grip, among other factors.
Aluminium poles: ski touring
Aluminium has the advantage of not rusting — a significant benefit. Rain or snow will in no way damage your aluminium poles. That is why you can use them just as well in summer as in winter. For ski touring or snowshoeing, for example, simply fit them with winter baskets — wider in diameter — which will prevent your poles from sinking too deep into the snow. It's also worth noting that snow absorbs vibrations, so there is no need to worry about your shoulder or elbow muscles.
