Price as of Jun 27, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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Example Calculations

15'10" hiker on flat terrain

Inputs

Height70 in (178 cm)

TerrainFlat

Result

Pole Length120 cm

178 × 0.68 = 121 cm, rounded to 120 cm. Adjustable range: 110–130 cm.

25'6" hiker going uphill

Inputs

Height66 in (168 cm)

TerrainUphill

Result

Pole Length110 cm

168 × 0.68 = 114 cm. Uphill subtract 5 = 109, rounded to 110 cm.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is trekking pole length determined?

The standard formula is your height multiplied by 0.68. A 5'10" (70 in) person needs poles around 120 cm. When holding the pole with the tip on the ground, your elbow should form a 90-degree angle. Adjustable poles let you fine-tune for terrain.

Formula: height (cm) × 0.68
5'4": 110 cm poles
5'8": 115 cm poles
5'10": 120 cm poles
6'0": 125 cm poles

Height	Flat Ground	Uphill	Downhill
5'4"	110 cm	105 cm	115 cm
5'8"	115 cm	110 cm	120 cm
5'10"	120 cm	115 cm	125 cm
6'2"	130 cm	125 cm	135 cm

Should I adjust pole length for uphill vs downhill?

Yes. Shorten poles by 5 cm (2 inches) for sustained uphill climbing to maintain the 90-degree elbow angle as the ground rises. Lengthen by 5 cm for downhill to keep poles reaching the ground ahead of you for stability.

Uphill: shorten 5 cm per side
Downhill: lengthen 5 cm per side
Mixed terrain: use flat setting
Steep traverses: shorten uphill pole, lengthen downhill

Should I get fixed or adjustable trekking poles?

Adjustable poles offer versatility for varying terrain and are easier to pack. Fixed-length poles are lighter and stiffer. For most hikers, adjustable poles with a 20 cm range (e.g., 110–130 cm) provide the best balance of versatility and performance.

Adjustable: versatile, packable, slightly heavier
Fixed: lighter, stiffer, specific to one height
Three-section: more compact for travel
Two-section: lighter, stiffer than three-section

Do trekking poles actually help on hikes?

Studies show trekking poles reduce knee stress by 12–25% on descents and improve balance on uneven terrain. They also engage upper body muscles, distributing effort and reducing leg fatigue on long hikes.

12–25% less knee impact on descents
Better balance on rough terrain
Engages upper body (arms, shoulders)
Reduces overall fatigue on long hikes

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Last Updated: Jul 13, 2026

This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Results are estimates and should not be considered professional financial, medical, legal, or other advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making important decisions. UseCalcPro is not responsible for any actions taken based on calculator results.