Trekking Poles, Compasses and Trail Gadgets

Know what each gadget does

These are small tools, so identify what each one does. A compass should have a damped needle and a baseplate with a ruler; a model with a declination adjustment lets you correct for the gap between magnetic and true north. An altimeter reads air pressure to estimate height, so set it to a known elevation before the hike and recalibrate when the weather changes. Power matters too: check whether the unit needs batteries and which type.

Poles, clips and protective products: fit and load

Where a listing is a trekking pole, look at length range, the lock type, and the shaft: aluminum is durable and carbon is lighter. Clips such as S-shaped carabiners made of aluminum or stainless steel are for hanging gear only, and whatever load is marked, they are never for climbing or supporting a person. Radio chargers are model specific: a desktop trickle charger is made for particular handheld radios, so match the model numbers. Grease sold in cartridges needs a grease gun, while aerosols spray on directly.

Questions about Trekking Poles, Compasses and Trail Gadgets

What is declination on a compass?

It is the angle between magnetic north, which a compass needle points to, and true north on a map. It varies by location, so a compass with an adjustment lets you correct it for accurate bearings.

Why does my altimeter show a different height each day?

A barometric altimeter infers height from air pressure, and weather changes the pressure. Set it to a known elevation at the trailhead and re-set it at landmarks to keep it accurate.

Are aluminum or carbon trekking poles better?

Aluminum poles are tougher and bend rather than snap, while carbon poles are lighter and absorb vibration but can splinter under a hard knock. Choose by whether weight or durability matters more to you.