The Bottom Line
- Basics of hiking pole techniques clearly demonstrated.
- Advanced techniques explained.
- Many excellent tips on hiking and poles.
- None
Description
- Describes the benefits of hiking with poles for all ages and abilities.
- Demystifies how to shop for hiking poles and select those best for you.
- Shows how to adjust the pole length and change length for the terrain, even while still moving.
- Clearly and simply describes the basic techniques for using poles for level, uphill, and downhill.
- Goes in depth in a section on advanced techniques while still keeping the instruction clear.
- How to care for your hiking and trekking poles and take them apart for travel and storage.
- Filmed in lovely locations throughout the western USA and Canada.
- Personable hosts Jayah and Bob are enjoyable to watch and explain things clearly.
- 2004 Aegis Award Winner
Guide Review - Hiking Poles: Techniques and Tips for All Ages and Abilities
The first section describes the basics of poles - the grip, strap, shaft, and tips. It helps demystify shopping for hiking poles. How to set the length of the poles and adjust them is demonstrated.
The basic technique section demonstrates the two finger swing and the evils of using the "death grip" on the poles. I enjoy the two hosts, Jayah and Bob, who have a relaxed and easy style that is very easy to follow. They demonstrate the basic uphill technique and downhill technique, as well as using the poles on steps or stairs. The hosts like to change pole length often for the slope, but also tell us the best length for those who don't like to change constantly.
The advanced technique section reviews the basics while going a bit more in depth for uphill, downhill, and more difficult terrain.
With gorgeous scenery and pleasant hosts, this DVD is a joy to watch and will inspire anyone to get out and enjoy the outdoors. I learned a lot from watching it am an eager to get moving!
