What are the Advantages to Using a Hiking Stick?

Q: Why use a hiking stick?

— Nicola, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

A: A hiking stick is a great tool for the trail as it helps you keep your balance on rough and sloped terrain. Plus, it takes pressure off your knees and back — something you’ll value the longer you hike.

You can make your own hiking stick. One disadvantage? A wooden hiking stick can’t grow with you, so you might consider trekking poles. Often made of lightweight aluminum or carbon fiber, they can slide to different lengths.

For example, Kelty Range 2.0 poles ($60, kelty.com) can extend from 35 to 54 inches. To find the right length, adjust the poles so your arms make a 90-degree angle with your elbow bent when you grab the grips. Many trekking poles come with wrist straps, and Kelty’s are padded to add comfort.

You can also attach baskets to the bottoms of your poles to keep them from sinking in mud or snow. The Leki Sherpa poles ($160, leki.com) come with two pairs of baskets that are easy to twist on and off when you encounter new terrain.