HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR TRAIL POLES?
Criteria for choice: compactness, lightness and comfort of the handle. Trail runners' priority is to store and deploy their poles quickly, so they can use them or forget about them as the race progresses. The most compact poles measure less than 40 cm when folded!
Don't hesitate to take them in hand and test them...
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR POLE SIZE
Rider size 155 to 160 cm = Sticks 110 cm
Rider size 168 to 175 cm = Sticks 120 cm
Rider size over 183 cm = Sticks 130 cm
WHY USE TRAIL POLES?
The benefits of trail poles:
A simple push-button release allows the pole to be unfolded and folded at high speed, even in full motion.
They help runners save energy during their propulsion race, provide better balance and stability during technical sections and make trail runners safer. They also act as stabilizers and shock absorbers for braking on descents.
HOW TO RUN WITH TRAIL POLES?
Firstly, using poles for running is a fairly technical exercise that requires a bit of training. It's best to anticipate and grasp the technique before a race!
Secondly, there are 2 ways of using trail poles, whether downhill or uphill: simultaneously or alternately. Whether you use one or the other depends on the incline of the slope and the space available for your poles:
TECHNIQUE FOR RUNNING WITH TRAIL POLES AT THE SAME TIME:
This technique is particularly useful on steep inclines, when you want to take the weight off your thighs by pulling your body up with your arms, or downhill, when you want to hold your body back and take the weight off your legs. You can take several strides between each stick planting. Remember to lean your body forward and press the poles firmly into the ground.
TECHNIQUE FOR RUNNING WITH ALTERNATING TRAIL POLES:
The alternating technique is more appropriate when there's less space available and on a gentler slope, this technique requires less power and consists of alternating right and left leg, with the opposite arm planting the stick in front and the other arm back in the air. In this case, it's best not to push the stick too far in to keep a better cadence. Smaller steps are preferable for this more natural running technique.
COMPOSITION
Durable construction
Tubes: Aluminium
Handle: 100% EVA foam
Handle strap: 100% polyester webbing