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As a youth, I did a lot of hiking/backing with my troop. The only thing I really ever had was a walking stick I made (still have it after 25 years).

I haven't done much hiking/backpacking as an adult, but will start doing so as I get ready for Philmont next summer. I need to start now getting in shape as I need to drop about 50 pounds.

I've seen a lot of folks these days use trekking poles and I was wondering if anyone recommended them or are they a waste of money.

Just curious what you all have to say.

You bet! My oldest son (an Eagle) is a physical therapist and swears by them. They help take the presure off of the hips and knees when going up OR down hills (esp. with back-pack). So, get some and enjoy. Those sold in the Scout Shop for $20 are pretty good AND sturdy, too!

Absolutly I never go hiking without them. They really save the knees and can keep you from falling in many situations. If buying do not go cheap I just purchased a new pair with shock absorbers for 70.00 They are black diamond. The shock absorbers do make a big difference. I also recommend getting the extra rubber tips. if you buy a good pair they will last if you go cheap you will be left hanging someplace you do not want to be.

True statement for all camping equipment.

a pair of treking poles, 20 feet of 550 cord, 4 aluminum stakes, and a silicon/nylon tarp makes a great ultralight tent.

Trekking poles are great! Increased stability, balance, extra power on the uphills, crossing streams, fencing, javelin toss . . .

"None shall pass!"

Wow...I can see that the trekking poles are a hit among those here. I will definitely check them out.

I too considered getting poles in preparation for a Philmont trek a few years ago. Rather than spending a bunch of money to test out the idea, I made a pair using a broomstick and a loop of nylon web material. They worked great, I took them at Philmont, and still use them today. My advice is to make your own and not waste good money on a commercial version.

I made some from 3/4 pvc piping and added an end cap to one end. Works great.

Even though I'm not all THAT old yet, and am quite flexible and nimble, I like using them at certain times. They also double as my tent poles. I do not like the twist-lock ones, but the flick-lock version. They hold better, are quicker to adjust and hold up better. Walmart actually carries both styles. $13 each for the flick-locks I got last summer.
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product. ... d=10928566

Molōn labe! (Or, ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒΕ, for those who might insist on the original.)

I find them very useful. At mile 10 of a two night 30 mile backpacking trip with only two adults, I twisted my ankle in a major way, and with the use of the poles (after adjusting pack weights), we were able to continue with the Trek. I was the last one out of Yosemite; and the scouts were very appreciative that they were able to finish the Trek vs turning around and going home. I do not go without them anymore!