Trekking Pole Height Calculator
The key idea is this: The perfect trekking pole height is about 68% of your own height. That way, your arms stay a bit bent, which is great for balance and support.
To find the proper height of walking sticks
Trekking Pole Height (cm)=User Height (cm) × 0.68
Trekking Poles & Walking Poles Sizing Chart
| Your Height (ft in) | Suggested Pole Section Length (ft in) | Your Height (cm) | Suggested Pole Section Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4’0″ | 2’9″ | 122 | 83 |
| 4’2″ | 2’10” | 127 | 86 |
| 4’4″ | 2’11” | 132 | 90 |
| 4’6″ | 3’1″ | 137 | 93 |
| 4’8″ | 3’2″ | 142 | 97 |
| 4’10” | 3’3″ | 147 | 100 |
| 5’0″ | 3’5″ | 152 | 103 |
| 5’2″ | 3’6″ | 157 | 107 |
| 5’4″ | 3’7″ | 163 | 111 |
| 5’6″ | 3’9″ | 168 | 114 |
| 5’8″ | 3’10” | 173 | 118 |
| 5’10” | 3’11” | 178 | 121 |
| 6’0″ | 4’1″ | 183 | 124 |
| 6’2″ | 4’2″ | 188 | 128 |
| 6’4″ | 4’3″ | 193 | 131 |
| 6’6″ | 4’5″ | 198 | 135 |
Related Article: How to Use Trekking Poles
How to Adjust Your Trekking Poles
This is an essential step for me, and I never start a hike before I make sure my poles are well-adjusted. Of course, you can further tune them on the way, but it is a good idea to know what you are doing.
- Find the optimal length: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, hold one hiking pole in each hand, and extend your arms fully. The ideal pole length is when your elbows form a 90-degree angle.
- Uphill: Shorten poles by 5-7 cm based on steepness to increase load pressure and avoid overstretching.
- Downhill: Extend poles by 5-7 cm to prevent overstretching and improve balance, reducing knee strain.
- Secure the straps: The hiking pole straps should be snug but comfortable. They should allow for free arm movement without feeling overly tight or restrictive.
Other Calculators:
