Trekking poles are essential in assisting the trekkers with their stability and rhythm during their walk. It can also help in reducing the pain they will be experiencing after the trek. However, the challenge by many trekkers is selecting aluminum vs carbon fiber trekking pole.
These two types of poles are the two widely used among all trekkers. Both of which offer several advantages and benefits when being used during the trek. But what are the differences between the two? This article is all learning these two different poles, their differences, upsides, downsides, and other related information.
Carbon Fiber vs Aluminum Trekking Pole – The Best Time to Use
There are several benefits a trekker can get in using a high-quality trekking pole rather than just simply using an ordinary stick. Other people can say that using a stick provides the same function, but there is actually a big difference.
The obvious difference should be its adjustability features. Unlike the regular stick, this outdoor gear can be adjusted to different lengths and fits the terrain that a trekker is navigating, making him comfortable during the journey.
Trekking pole also provides excellent traction and stability by offering more contact points on the ground. It will also help you control your speed and maintain your rhythm throughout the trek. Lastly, this outdoor gear helps reduce the different strains you will feel in the different parts of the body during and after the walk.
With all the benefits it brings, no wonder many trekkers use the pole in the trekking journey. However, high-quality trekking poles are typically made of either aluminum or carbon fiber materials. When is the best time to use a particular type? Let us find out below.
When to Use a Carbon Fiber and Aluminum Trekking Pole
An aluminum trekking pole is best used when you are hiking while carrying a heavier load. Using the aluminum type of the trekking pole will provide you with stronger shafts that can handle more force coming from the heavy load.
If you are a trekker who wants to always lean on the pole during the hike, the aluminum pole should be a perfect fit. In addition, if you like to trek in colder environments, aluminum is actually the best option because it is not temperature sensitive.
Also, if you just want to relax and take it slowly, putting more premium on pacing during the trek, an aluminum trekking pole is an excellent option for you. Lastly, the aluminum pole is more economical and affordable compared to the carbon fiber-made pole.
Meanwhile, it is all about speed if you prefer a carbon fiber trekking pole. If you are a hiker who wants to go farther in your destination in the shortest amount of time, the carbon fiber trekking pole is an excellent fit.
This type of trekking pole is best suited for hikers carrying too much load during the trek. If you like to put a premium on your speed during the trek while saving a lot of weight, this trekking pole is an excellent option for you.
Carbon Fiber vs Aluminum Trekking Pole – Pros and Cons
Using carbon fiber or aluminum trekking poles comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this portion of the article, we will take a look at the pros and cons of each type for you to be able to differentiate between the two.
Aluminum Trekking Pole
As a type of metal element, aluminum is known to be rough and heavy. So, it is understandable pole manufacturers, when using aluminum materials, usually produce one of the most durable poles you can use on the trek.
Pros:
Durability is what an aluminum pole brings to the trekker. These durability features will also affect its lifespan. Meaning, aluminum trekking poles usually last longer compared to the carbon fiber-made ones.
This durability feature is also essential when the pole is bent accidentally. The owner can still straighten and use the pole once repaired. In simple words, the owner can still maintain the pole’s usability even when it is bent.
Aluminum poles are also not sensitive to temperature. Meaning, it can be used anytime regardless of temperature, whether it’s freezing or hot. Last but not least, the aluminum trekking pole is more affordable compared to the carbon fiber pole.
Cons:
Because of the aluminum properties, this type of trekking pole weighs more. If it is heavy, it may have a negative impact on your hike if you prefer hiking light. This type of metal is also prone to vibration, which can have a negative impact on your hiking.
Carbon Fiber Trekking Pole
Carbon fibers are known to provide stiffness, tensile strength, chemical resistance, and low weight. All of these properties are transferred to the trekking pole once this material is being used in the manufacturing process.
Pros:
Comfort is what a carbon fiber trekking pole provides to a hiker, especially if you have the high-end quality. The biggest quality that the carbon fiber gives is its ability not to flex as much, making the hiker get more support and feel more comfortable during the trek.
Carbon fiber trekking poles are built with shafts that offer strength and lightness. These features will allow you to trek quickly and navigate the terrain faster. The carbon fiber trekking poles feel very stiff and do not vibrate as much.
Lastly, if you want to quicken your pace during the trek, the carbon fiber trekking pole is an excellent option for you. With its lightness and excellent support, you should be able to navigate the terrain easily and quickly.
Cons:
The downside of carbon fiber is its being fragile and its tendency to break. Once it is not properly used and starts to crack, the trekking pole cannot be repaired and will eventually break. And the worst part of it is you will never have a second chance to use it.
Conclusion
If you are planning to trek in the future, learning the difference between aluminum vs carbon fiber trekking pole is essential. From doing so, you will be able to know which is the right trekking pole that will fit your preference.