Here's the Best Way to Tie Hiking Poles to Your Pack

Attaching hiking poles properly to your backpack is important for safety and convenience. There are a few techniques to tie poles securely: - Bungee Cord Method: Use a bungee cord to strap poles under the pack's top lid. Quick and easy. Provides easy access while keeping poles in place. - Webbing Loop Method: Create webbing loops on the pack's shoulder straps and side compression straps. Thread poles through for a snug fit. Can come loose over time. - Carabiner Clip Method: Clip carabiners on the pack's side straps or hip belt. Attach poles for a sturdy hold. Convenient access without unclipping. Can dangle and hit legs. - Ice Axe Loop Method: Utilize ice axe loops if pack has them. Thread tip through top loop, handle through bottom. Keeps poles secure and accessible. Limited to specific packs. Once mastered, tying hiking poles takes just seconds. Test different techniques to find your favorite for safety and ease on the trail. With the right system, poles become an asset rather than a hassle on your next backpacking trip.

Hiking poles are invaluable on the trail, but can be a nuisance if you don't know how to attach them properly to your backpack. Rather than fumbling with ways to strap them on each time you need your hands free, learn the most secure methods to tie poles quickly so they stay in place and are easy to access when needed.

The Benefits of Trekking Poles Extend Far Beyond Balance

For many hikers, trekking poles seem unnecessary - just another piece of equipment to carry. But make no mistake, poles aren't just for older folks or ultra-athletes. They offer stability, take pressure off joints, build upper body strength and can even prevent falls on rough terrain. Don't be fooled by their simplicity - poles are a secret weapon that can improve any wilderness adventure.

In the past, ski poles or makeshift walking sticks were used mainly for balance on questionable footing. But as designs lightened, grips improved and benefits multiplied, poles transitioned from sporadic aid to essential gear.

Today's trekking poles allow fluid movement synchronized with walking cadence. Flick your wrist on uphills for power, lengthen stride on flats by pushing off, and reduce joint strain descending grades. Trail runners even use them in place of shoes for ultra-distance races like the Colorado Loop.

But don't take just my word for it. Research on pole walking shows lower limb stress compared to normal walking, reducing knee and hip pain. Less body weight is transferred through joints, lowering forces up to 25% each step.

And get this - pole users also burn up to 20% more calories when walking uphill or with a pack. TOMS Shoes Founder Blake Mycoskie wrote: “I was pleasantly surprised at what a difference using trekking poles made on my knees, my stability, my posture and my upper body workout.”

Hikers who dismiss poles as unnecessary should reconsider their benefits:
Increased Stability - Those prone to twisting ankles or falls gain stability planting poles with each step.
Arm and Upper Body Engagement - Gripping and planting poles tones triceps, shoulders and back muscles.
Aid on Steep Inclines - Pushing poles uphill and easing knees downhill saves leg strain.

But poles do come with one catch: you need a way to attach them when pausing on trail. Stopping to rummage through your pack is no fun, so smart pole-pack fastening is a critical skill...

Choosing Poles to Match Your Hiking Style and Terrain

So we've established that trekking poles provide benefits from added stability to upper body tone. But with so many pole types on the market, how do you choose what works for your adventure? Keep these key factors in mind:

First, consider your usual hiking terrain. Technical trails with loose rocks and steep grades call for adjustable-length poles that can extend on descents. Look for flick locks that securely fix length when open, but allow quick one-handed adjustments. Extending and planting poles downhill reduces joint strain.

Meanwhile, telescoping poles with shock absorbers are ideal for prolonged mileage days. Springs inside the pole shafts smooth the impact of each step, saving joints on long distances. These pack down smaller when collapsed too.

Second, factor in your current fitness level and any joint limitations. Those with past ankle or knee injuries need extra stability from planting poles more often. Grips like molded EVA foam provide comfort for arthritic hands as well.

And don’t forget hand size - small hands won’t feel secure on thick grips made for large palms. Test grip thickness and shape before purchasing. Women's specific poles are contoured for narrower hands.

Third, consider packed size if hiking far between resupplies. Folding and telescoping models with removable wrist straps pack the smallest when folded. Stand-alone wrist straps also minimize bulk.

Finally, assess weight. Extended thru-hikes require featherlight gear, so aim for sub-15 ounce poles without sacrificing too much comfort or stability. Carbon fiber shafts are strong yet weigh ounces less than cheaper aluminum.

To recap key factors when buying trekking poles:

Terrain - Adjustable poles for technical trails, shock absorbing for ultra distances
Fitness Level - Increased stability from more frequent planting if needed
Hand Comfort - Find optimal grip size and material for joint pain
Packed Size - Folding and telescoping models are most packable
Weight - Ultra-lite poles weigh under 15 ounces for thru-hikes

Withso many pole options, it pays to evaluate terrain and fitness to narrow choices. Next we'll cover why attachment method also matters...

Hazards of Unsecured Poles

So we've covered the benefits of poles and how to choose the optimal set. But none of that matters if you lack a reliable system to attach them when not in use. Improperly secured poles create all sorts of hazards from nuisance to danger.

First, loose poles will slide down or swing wildly with each step. You'll have to stop constantly to reposition them, killing momentum on the trail. This gets old fast, especially when poles slip down over rough terrain. Pausing to resecure equipment breaks your pacing and rhythm.

Worse, unlocked poles can slide out of makeshift cradles altogether. Watching your poles tumble down the mountainside is disheartening, not to mention expensive if they’re damaged or lost. Ask anyone who’s stabbed themselves grabbing at falling poles - it ruins your day!

And if you stash loose poles in a side pocket, beware impalement on the points when reaching for snacks. A pole-stabbed thigh or hand isn't fatal but derails hiking plans fast.

Most seriously, unsecured poles threaten safety for you and others. Your errant pole could slide into the path of a passing cyclist, causing injury. And if crossing a creek via stepping stones, free-swinging poles throw off your center of gravity. One slip could mean a head injury from falls into rocks and current.

As avid outdoorsman Andrew Skurka warns: “A lot of people underestimate the importance of [pole stowing]...a pole could just as easily go flying into someone else and poke their eye out or knock their teeth.”

To recap, jostling loose poles lead to:
Constant stopping to reposition while hiking
Gear loss if poles slide out onto the trail
Self injury from accidental pole stabs
Danger to others from stray poles

Rather than tempt these hazards, let’s explore secure pole attachment strategies...

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Choosing the Best Pole Attachment Method

To keep poles secure yet accessible, you need to match your attachment method to both pack design and expected trail conditions. Approach pole stowing like you would any backcountry decision - factoring in variables from gear to terrain.

First, assess your pack’s features. Does it have dual ice axe loops, side compression straps, exterior lash points or extended top lid closures? Take stock of attachment options before assuming poles won’t fit.

Look for spare lash loops, daisy chains or bungee tie-offs to thread poles through. Manufacturers recognize multi-use gear, so utilize any straps or grommets without a clear purpose already. There’s often more capacity than appears at first glance.

Next, consider expected trail conditions and how often you’ll need poles at the ready. Day hikes on relatively flat ground allow poles to be stashed deeply in the pack. But scrambling over rocky terrain demands quick pole access, so aim for external attachment.

The ideal system allows grabbing and stowing poles repeatedly without losing pace on the trail. Think seconds, not minutes for attaching and detaching. Practice the motion at home for efficiency.

Also, mind sharp attachments that could tear fabric over time. Carabiners hold well when clipping side straps, but may abrade the pack material with extended use. Opt for soft webbing loops as a protective alternative.

To choose the optimal pole attachment:

Assess pack attachment points before assuming poles won’t fit
Consider ease of access for your specific terrain
Test securement speed to find the fastest method
Watch for sharp contact points that could damage pack

With so many factors at play, experimentation reveals the best attachment strategy for your adventure. Next, let’s walk through proven techniques...

Step-by-Step Pole Attachment Techniques

Now that we've covered key factors in choosing attachment methods, let's walk through proven techniques to try:

The bungee cord method is ideal for packs with an extended top lid. Simply place both poles across the top of the pack and wrap a sturdy bungee horizontally around them. Hook the cord ends under compression straps on either side. This centers weight nicely.

For quick access, keep pole handles facing up and tips pointing down toward your heels. The bungee alone holds surprisingly snug if wrapped tightly. Just unhook the ends and pull poles out when needed.

Next, the webbing loop technique threads poles vertically through shoulder and compression strap loops. Create DIY loops using 1-inch tubular webbing and cord locks if your pack lacks attachment points.

Slide poles down through loops until snug. The tension keeps them from sliding out. This does, however, place more weight on your shoulders rather than centered on the frame.

Carabiners also clip easily through compression and hip belt webbing to hold poles horizontally. Just ensure carabiners are screwed tight so they don't pop open accidentally. Watch for pack abrasion over time.

Finally, ice axe loops built into ultralight packs are ideal for vertical pole storage. Simply slide the basket end down through the bottom loop and grip end through the top. Loops securely cradle poles off your back.

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Experiment with these techniques and others to find your favorite. The ideal system stows poles tightly, grants quick access, and distributes weight comfortably. With practice, securing poles becomes second nature.

Now let's quickly master these methods...

Master Pole Attachment in Under a Minute

With various secure pole attachment techniques at your disposal, it’s time to practice them until executing each in under 60 seconds becomes second nature. Follow these tips to speed your proficiency:

Start by gathering the necessary gear - poles, pack, bungee cords, webbing and cord locks if needed. Have carabiners or ice axe loops ready if utilizing those methods. Lay all pieces out before starting.

Next, visualize each step required through complete attachment before beginning. This mental rehearsal primes your mind to work efficiently. Visualize smooth motions without fumbling or hesitation.

Now attach poles via your chosen technique slowly at first, focusing on proper sequencing. Do each motion deliberately and smoothly. For example, with the bungee method, center poles, wrap cord, and hook ends under straps in order.

Work in a static position at home until you can attach without looking or pausing. This muscle memory translates well on the trail when performed enough.

Finally, incorporate movement. Walking around your house, place poles across the pack, secure them while still moving, then detach and continue walking. Shooting for under 60 seconds might seem rushed at first, but becomes attainable with practice.

To recap tips for quick pole attachment:

Gather all needed gear upfront for smooth workflow
Visualize the full process before starting
Practice slowly focusing on proper sequencing
Repeat until memorized working in static position
Attach and detach while moving to mirror trail conditions

It’s simple but not necessarily easy. Be patient while your hands and mind adapt. But with dedicated practice, you'll master fast and secure pole attachment.

The added stability, upper body engagement and joint relief your poles provide will have you moving faster and stronger on the trail. So take time now to make them an asset rather than a hassle.