*Genesis 12:12: You will not die, you will live. Amen *Exodus 12:12: There will be Passover in your life. Amen *Numbers 12:12: You will not look like something born dead. Amen *Deuteronomy 12:12: You and […]
*When Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were thrown in the furnace, If God was not there already waiting to take care of the situation, their story will be different. *In Mark 10: 46-52, when Jesus was […]
There is a great lesson in the prayer of Elijah to God in (1 Kings 18:36). *Miracles have a waiting period. Miracles can wait for a year, a month, a week, instant. When do you […]
The Almighty God created the Heavens and the Earth and everything in the world. It is interesting to note that there is no place in the bible where it is mentioned that God created the […]
*Prove yourself that you are God. *Prove yourself like you said in Genesis 17:1. *Prove yourself that you are the Almighty (Psalm 91:1). *Almighty means that there is nothing too hard for you to do. […]
What God cannot do doesn’t exist. You have not because you ask not …ye have not, because ye ask not – James 4:2 (KJV) *God can pick you up from the graveyard to life. God […]
*God made His message clear that we, his creations (man and woman) should not expect help from below the Heavens. *Do not expect your help from any man. *As stated in Jeremiah 17: 5-6 (NIV). […]
These exercise dress picks not only top the comfort list, but look super cute on, too.What is an exercise dress?Exercise dresses are super popular, and for a good reason: They are a no-fuss, easy-to-wear option that can seamlessly go from studio to street to the super popular brunch spot without missing a beat.It’s basically your favorite pair of leggings—sweat-wicking, stretchable, and uber-comfy— in a fun, flowy and much less constrictive form.“Exercise dresses are transitional,” says Deja Riley, a Lululemon ambassador, Mirror trainer, and dancer who spent years getting her groove on for A-listers like Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Katy Perry, and Lady Gaga.“I can go from brunch with my friends to my favorite workouts, then to run some errands all while looking and feeling good,” she says.“Plus, they usually come with a few hidden pockets, so I can move around the city with my hands-free, which is ideal.”How to pick an exercise dressWhen it comes to shopping for an exercise dress (or really any sort of workout gear), experts tend to agree that it’s all about fit, fabric quality, functionality, and feeling good.FitWhile this is a personal measurement, you know when something fits well and when it doesn’t.“You want to be as comfy as possible when working out because ultimately you’re there to move your body,” says Gabi Gregg, a designer, influencer, and Athleta ambassador.Focusing on the workout is the goal, rather than being distracted by straps that slip, built-in shorts that ride up, overly restrictive gear, or a too-short dress that you spend an entire workout tugging on because you feel like you are exposing yourself.For Gregg, she personally likes a balance of comfort and support.“I want things that hold me in so that I can move easily yet still support me so my body isn’t constantly bouncing as I move.”You also want to consider the type of workout you are actually doing before investing in a good workout dress.Some modalities call for different fits, according to Riley.“When I’m dancing, I like to reach for something looser so that I can be really in touch with my body and feel the movements, and when I’m boxing, indoor cycling, or doing HIIT training, I like something tighter to keep me feeling secure,” Riley says. “Whatever I’m wearing though, stretch is a must.”Fabric qualityWhether you are powering through an AMRAP or doing the 100s in Pilates, you want a well-constructed garment that’s strong enough to meet the needs of the workout, but still feels great against the skin.Gregg suggests buttery soft fabrics that breathe.And just as you use the good-old squat test for leggings to see if they are thick enough, the same strategy can and should be used for an exercise dress to see if the fabric you are donning is see-thru or not. Better to know up front than to be sorry during your next exercise class.FunctionalityDoes the exercise dress do what it claims to do? For the most part that simply means managing excess moisture and then having a fabric that dries quickly. Look, no one wants to be saddled with a sweat-soaked garment, especially if post-workout you have errands to run.Also, does the fabric breathe? Feeling like you are having a heat stroke in your gear will surely affect your performance (Translation: No PRs today!).Feeling goodClothes are powerful. How you look and feel in them can really make or break a workout.“I think most people, like me, are taking a more holistic approach to fitness and wellness,” says Riley.“You can’t do your best without feeling your best, so taking that extra effort to make yourself feel and look good while still being functional in your daily practice goes such a long way.”Keeping the suggestions of our pros in mind, here are 10 dresses that you might want to cozy up to this summer.The best exercise dressesvia amazon.comWillit Exercise DressShop NowThe thing we love most about this tennis dress from Willit? The sleek and supportive shorts are detachable, which means you don’t have to shimmy out of the entire thing when the urge to use the bathroom hits.OK, and it has all the traditional things we’ve come to love in an exercise dress: a built-in bra with removable cups, hidden pockets large enough for your phone, and a breathable nylon-spandex blended fabric that expertly manages sweat. Did we mention it’s also comfy enough to lounge around in all day, too?via outdoorvoices.comOutdoor Voices Exercise DressShop NowFrom playing tennis to enjoying a picnic in the park with your significant other, the versatility of this Outdoor Voices dress makes it a must-have wardrobe staple.Not to mention with this pick, you get the same great, light-as-air dress that caught everyone’s eye when it debuted in 2018 (and basically ushered in this whole dress movement we’re in the midst in now), but with a few key upgrades: adjustable straps, pockets big enough to fit your smartphone, and elastic grippers on the built-in bodysuit to keep it from riding up. Choose from six colorful hues.via nike.comNike Bliss Luxe DressShop NowAvailable in extended sizing, this Nike exercise dress gives you the best of both worlds: a short knit bodysuit with a built in bra that hugs and supports your frame and a lightweight outer layer that keeps all of your goods under wraps.The best part, though, is that this frock is eco-friendly—it’s made with recycled polyester—so not only will you look good during your next HIIT class, but you’ll be helping out the planet too. We call that a win-win!via columbia.comColumbia Women’s PFG Freezer III DressShop NowWhen outdoor adventures call—be it fishing or hiking—you’ll be ready with this flattering alfresco find.Not only does the silky, smooth fabric contain a 50 UPF rating, which helps protect against the sun’s harmful rays, but your sweat will activate a special cooling technology in the fabric that will chill you out—literally.Even better, this workout dress by Columbia, which comes in an assortment of colors, packs away without wrinkling, making it the perfect travel companion.via lululemon.comLululemon Serene Stride DressShop NowThe fitted bodice and flowy hem will make even your toughest miles feel pretty— and that’s not even the best part of this Lululemon dress.It’s the little details that will complement your run that have us placing this pick in our online shopping cart again and again: a convenient pocket in the built-in shorts to stash essentials, including keys, cash and an energy gel for those longer distances; the lightweight fabric that not only wicks sweat but dries super fast; and reflective details that make sure you’re seen when the sun goes down.via sweatybetty.comSweaty Betty Power Workout DressShop NowMade of Sweaty Betty’s signature super stretchy and body-shaping fabric, this cute sleeveless number can handle everything from boxing to indoor cycling to Pilates.Plus, the built-in bra and supportive shorts make this an all-in-one, so you can grab it and go, and feel confident that you have all of your gear. Warning: Some reviews say it can be a little tricky to wiggle into this workout dress, but once it’s on, you’ll totally forget that little struggle.via athleta.comAthleta Match Point DressShop NowDon’t be fooled by this high neck choice from Athleta. It still provides plenty of relief from the heat thanks to the front zip and the heavily ventilated mesh back (which will also show off a cute little sports bra!).Plus the UPF 50 + rated sustainable fabric will help deflect the sun when its rays are beaming down on the tennis court.There is one drawback: This dress comes sans shorts, so you’ll have to BYOS (bring your own shorts) if you want that layered look.via oldnavy.comOld Navy Sleeveless PowerSoft Performance Racer-Back Mini Swing DressShop NowWhile there is nothing wrong with a body-con dress, sometimes you just want to feel a little less constricted. With its relaxed fit throughout the body and the slightly flared bottom, this super cute Old Navy camo number totally fits the bill.Also handy: The built-in shelf bra along with the moisture-wicking, poly-spandex fabric make it ripe for any sweat sesh, though we prefer to rock this as everyday wear.via patagonia.comPatagonia Women’s Magnolia Spring DressShop NowIf you want a do-everything, casual summer exercise dress, look no further than this one from Patagonia.Not only does this A-line silhouette travel well, but it’s durable (read no pilling or sagging); has anti-odor properties so you can sport it more than once without worrying about a foul smell; and it’s constructed with recycled materials, making it eco-friendly too.via thehalara.comHalara Everyday Workout Dress WannabeShop NowConsider this your recovery workout dress, and cop it in multiple colors. This formfitting style from Halara, which really shows off your stems (read: it’s definitely shorter than the others), is made for low-impact moves, such an easy five-minute standing yoga flow or an easy-paced walk around town.The shoulder straps, while thin, won’t dig in, the pockets on the shorts are perfect for any little do-dads you want on hand, and the soft, cloud-like fabric feels like heaven against your skin. […]
Having the right hiking attire can make your trek more enjoyable. Here’s what the experts want you to know about what to look for when purchasing the perfect pair of hiking shorts for women.Put on your best pair of hiking shortsHiking is more than a fun and exciting pastime, it is also an activity with serious health benefits.Research in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine suggests that hiking can reduce blood pressure, lower stress levels, restore attention, and enhance the immune system.With some gyms and workout rooms still closed, there’s never been a better time to get outdoors for some exercise.According to the American Hiking Society, there are some 1,244 National Recreation Trails within the National Trails System in the United States.But before you hit the trails, whether it’s for a brisk hike or an epic trek, it’s important to think about what you’re going to wear. And if it’s warm out, that means you’ll need a good pair of hiking shorts.While the experts say you don’t need anything more than basic workout clothes to get out there and hike, there are certain qualities and features in shorts designed for hiking specifically that can make your experience more comfortable and safe.We got ahold of experts who know exactly what to look for in your hunt for the right hiking shorts for women. Here’s what they had to say.What to look for when buying hiking shorts for womenFabric and fitThe experts say that your choice of fabric is one of the most important considerations when looking for hiking shorts. (The same goes for hiking socks, too.)They say to avoid cotton or other fabrics that tend to absorb moisture and don’t dry quickly. Synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester are a good choice for workout clothes because they wick moisture away from the skin and allow it to pass through the material so it can release into the air.Kathryn Van Waes, the executive director of the American Hiking Society, says most workout clothing from almost any brand nowadays has these properties. “Bonus points if the material has anti-stink properties, which a number of brands offer but with different names,” she adds.When it comes to fit, the experts say whatever feels comfortable is likely a good fit. Kelly Roberts Lane, with Fix It Physical Therapy, says your hiking shorts should have room to enough to move around in easily.WaistbandThe experts recommend picking shorts with a flat, wide waistband for even pressure distribution.“You also have to consider the button as it sits right under the waist belt of your backpack and soon will become a pain, literally,” says Dr. Lane.She recommends picking shorts with an elastic waist or a button that has cloth behind it for comfort.Water and wind resistance/proofingIf you’re planning on hiking in very wet or windy conditions, you may want to consider waterproof and windproof shorts. But the experts say in most cases, you’re better off with water-resistant and wind-resistant clothing.Van Waes says waterproof and windproof clothing that is also breathable usually come with a higher price tag and more inexpensive versions don’t allow airflow. She adds that in non-breathable waterproof hiking attire, you will likely become so sweaty you’ll end up just as wet as you would have hiking in the rain.ColorThe experts note that if you’re hiking in an area where you’re likely to come into contact with ticks, try wearing white or lighter colored clothes so you can spot ticks easily. Lighter clothing also tends to absorb less heat from the sun.PocketsVan Waes says pockets or no pockets is a personal preference. But pockets can be convenient when you need to stash different items you want close at hand, like cameras, maps, binoculars, or your phone.Some hiking shorts even have a waterproof lining in their pockets or zipper for added security. The experts say it’s especially great when hiking shorts have a zippered pouch in the waist or back of the shorts to store things like keys, cash, or cards.Skirts/skortsIf shorts aren’t your thing, many hiking gear companies make skirts, or skorts (skirts with built-in shorts), these days. Dr. Lane says she normally hikes in a skirt or skort.“I am enjoying the skirt experience,” she says. “It has plenty of room to move, drys quickly, and is breathable.”Top hiking shorts for womenNavigating the various features when buying hiking shorts for women can be tricky. So here are some of the best hiking shorts for women based on expert advice.Mountain Hardware Dynama 2 Bermudavia mountainhardwear.comShop NowMountain Hardware is a company the experts recommend for top hiking attire. The Dynama 2 Bermuda hiking shorts by Mountain Hardware contains all the expert-recommended features—and more.These shorts are a bit pricer than others, but they are quick-drying, and breathable, made of 94 percent nylon and 6 percent elastane, and are water-resistant.They also offer excellent protection from the sun with built-in UPF 50 protection and anti-stink properties.Despite having a minimal looking design, they come with two deep pockets in the front, a zip pocket on the left thigh, and a pocket on the back, right-hand side to stash extra gear, snacks, or as Van Waes points out, ‘treasures’ your kids may come across on the trek.To top things off, these shorts have a flat, wide, low-profile elastic waistband for extra comfort and do not contain an enclosure like a button or Velcro patch that can cause irritation or indentations in the skin.REI Co-op Active Pursuits 4.5″ Shorts – Women’svia rei.comShop NowIf you’re looking more for a cross between running or biking shorts and hiking shorts, look no further! These REI shorts sit higher and looser than some other hiking shorts for women, offering excellent air flow and reducing the risk of chaffing without being revealing.They are also super stretchy containing 14 percent sustainable spandex, quick-drying, have an inner moisture-wicking layer, and offer UPF 50 sun protection.For added comfort, these shorts have a wide, flat elastic waistband with a drawstring that allows you to get the perfect fit every time you wear them.Unfortunately, these shorts do not contain hand pockets, but they do come with one small pocket built into the inner lining to hold things.Columbia Women’s Sandy River Shortvia amazon.comShop NowThese mid-length hiking shorts for women from Columbia are designed for water sports and hiking in wet environments.They are 100 percent nylon, providing an excellent fit while also wicking away moisture and being breathable, and quick-drying. They also offer built-in UPF 30 for some sun protection.These shorts fit loose with a comfortable elastic waist and an inner drawstring to help fit better as swelling and sweating occur.These shorts have two side hand pockets and one back zippered pocket for stashing your stuff and any other hiking gear essentials you may want to carry.At this price point, you can also get a pair of these shorts for the same cost as shorts that are lower quality or from less reputable brands.Like many Columbia hiking shorts, these also come in plus sizes.Prana Arch Skortvia prana.comShop NowSkorts, or a skirt exterior with a short interior, offer a wide range of movement.This one from Prana is made of a blend of elastane, polyester, and nylon without the look or feel of other hiking shorts. These materials also make this skort breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying.The Prana arch skort looks like a regular sport skirt from the outside, but offers the support of mesh-lined shorts inside, making it a versatile pick good for more strenuous or urban hiking. These shorts also provide a great fit for most women, having a stretchy elastic waistband, inner drawstring, and side-cinches that make the length of the short adjustable.As a bonus, this skort is made from sustainable materials in Fair Trade Certified Factories and built-in UPF 50 sun protection.(Here are the best exercise dresses.)Columbia Women’s Anytime Outdoor Long Shortvia amazon.comShop NowIf you’re looking for a longer hiking short with more protection and a longer fit, this option from Columbia might be your best bet. With two-way stretch, made out of a mix of nylon and elastane, these shorts provide comfort during movement and wick moisture away from the skin.They also come with built-in sun protection in the form of UPF 50 and protect more of the skin from the sun, being a longer fit. Unlike many hiking shorts, these also offer stain resistance.These hiking shorts conform closer to the body, offering a more tight fit.These shorts have two hand pockets in the front and one zippered pocket in the pack to hold valuable items and a comfortable elastic waistband with an external drawstring to help you get a customized fit.They also come in plus sizes to meet the needs of people with a variety of body sizes.Patagonia Baggiesvia patagonia.comShop NowFor the eco-conscious buyer looking for a lighter pair of hiking shorts, this may be the right fit for you.These 100 percent recycle nylon Patagonia shorts are breathable, moisture-wicking, and water repellent.They also contain two front hand pockets with a mesh lining that allows water through to make for drainage and quicker drying.The Patagonia baggies also offer a comfort, loose fit and an elastic waistband for added comfort and a drawstring for a more customized, versatile fit. Use these shorts for other activities like running, walking, or cycling.Travel Panty Skort Odyssey 12 from Sportive Plusvia sportiveplus.comShop NowFinding comfortable, plus-sized hiking shorts that come with important features like quick-drying or UV resistance can be tricky.Supportive Plus is one brand offering more variety of plus-sized outdoor attire than many other leading hiking brands and designed specifically for extra curves and sizes.This skort is moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and blocks UV rays.It also comes with two deep hand pockets in the front as well as two cargo pockets, one on each side, towards the bottom of the skort.The manufacturer of this product says the skort is a loose fit, so they recommend many people purchase one size smaller than they normally would.Prana Alanavia prana.comShop NowThese Prana shorts are more water-resistant than many other available hiking shorts for women, yet this advantage means they may be less breathable than other pairs.They also offer four pockets, two deep hand pockets in the front, an invisible zippered pocket in the back, and two back pockets with tabs for extra security and a more flattering fit. These shorts also offer good sun protection with built-in UPF 50.For the eco-conscious buyer, these shorts feature a recycled nylon blend.Unlike most of the other shorts on this list, these shorts have a firmer waistband with two snaps in the front and an inner drawstring to help get the right fit.REI Co-op Sahara Guide Skirtvia rei.comShop NowFor those who love the idea of a regular hiking skirt, this liner-free mid-thigh skirt may be a good fit for you.This REI skirt allows tons of breathability and movement, made of a mixture of sustainable nylon and spandex on the front and back and polyester and spandex on the sides. The skirt is also moisture-wicking and water and stain repellent, and comes with built-in UPF 50.Unlike some skirts, this one has with two deep hand pockets in the front and a zippered pocket in the back for valuables. Having a flat, wide, elastic waistband also makes this skirt comfortable for long periods of time, and it has an internal drawstring to help adjust the fit as needed.Plus, this skirt has a carabiner loop, similar to a bungee loop, for hanging items you want to quickly and easily reach during your hike, like sweat cloths or binoculars.REI also offers this skirt for sale in a gently used version, knocking major bucks of the price and allowing you to help reduce the environmentally-harmful cycle of wasted clothing.Athleta Trekkie North Shortvia athleta.gap.comShop NowThese shorts, which come in sizes 00-3X, tick off almost all the boxes when it comes to expert-recommend features of hiking shorts for women.They are extremely durable, made of ripstop fabric and a mix of recycled nylon and spandex that make these shorts stretchy, quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and breathable.They also contain four zippered pockets, two hand pockets in the front around the waist and two that contour to the arch of the bum in the back.These shorts come with built-in UPF 50 to block out most of the sun’s rays. […]
Hiking sticks are not for everyone, but they can be surprisingly helpful for many people. Here are some tips to help you find the best hiking poles or walking sticks for you.The hiking pole is an underrated toolSince prehistoric times, humans have used various walking sticks, from fallen branches and carved wooden staffs to the adjustable, ultralight trekking poles seen on trails today.Walking sticks are not necessarily essential hiking gear, but they can be surprisingly helpful for many people in many situations. They provide enough benefits to outweigh the extra burden, which varies by material and features.“Having hiking sticks, at least one of them if not two, are really good for getting some stability and balance, especially if you’re hopping on rocks,” says Kate Van Waes, executive director for the American Hiking Society (AHS).“They’re good for balancing yourself if you’re going over tricky spots while carrying weight.”Along with improved balance, walking sticks can reduce impact on your joints, too, potentially protecting you from knee pain and other common hiking maladies, according to the journals Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise and Wilderness & Environmental Medicine.They provide a boost when going uphill, as well as valuable support during descents, and they’re often useful for poking the ground to test the depth and consistency of mud, puddles, or snow.Trekking poles can also reduce the perception of effort when hiking, helping it feel easier even if you’re burning more calories, per The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research.They can have some drawbacks, such as requiring additional energy from your upper body, occupying your hands, and adding more weight to the overall load you’re carrying.Having ultralight hiking sticks can help with the weight and energy cost, though, and a foldable stick can also be stored more easily when you aren’t using it, thus freeing up your hands while you hike.Here’s what to look for in a hiking stick. Plus, options that are worth the investment.Peathegee Inc/Getty ImagesWhat to look for in a hiking pole or walking stickThe best walking stick(s) for you will depend partly on your personal preferences, as well as on the terrain and conditions where you plan to go for a walk.Here are a few factors to consider when shopping for hiking sticks or trekking poles:MaterialThe earliest walking sticks were likely all made from wood, and many still are today. That includes tree branches you find on the forest floor, of course, as well as canes, staffs, and other walking sticks carved from wood.But walking sticks now come in other materials, too, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each.“Definitely, there are people who still prefer that traditional wood hiking staff, and really that comes down to personal preference,” says Wesley Trimble, communications and creative director for the AHS.Wood is often stabler and more durable than other materials, he notes, but also heavier and less versatile.It can work well for short walks and day hikes, but may become a nuisance on overnight backpacking trips, both due to its weight and its lack of folding or telescoping capabilities.That’s why trekking poles now feature lighter material, usually either aluminum or carbon fiber.WeightSince wooden walking sticks tend to be heavier, people often use just one at a time for shorter hikes, Trimble explains, rather than in pairs like trekking poles.Both aluminum and carbon-fiber walking sticks tend to weigh less than those made of wood, but carbon fiber is usually the lightest option. That makes it popular among many long-distance hikers, although it can be more expensive than aluminum.DurabilityThe light weight of carbon-fiber walking sticks and trekking poles may come at the expense of durability, Trimble points out.“Aluminum trekking poles are typically heavier and more durable, whereas carbon-fiber poles are lighter weight but can’t really bend, so they’re more likely to break.” Wood can be highly durable, but again, its weight and rigidity tend to rule it out for longer hikes.AdjustabilityMany aluminum or carbon-fiber walking sticks and trekking poles are adjustable, allowing hikers to lengthen or shorten them as needed. That can be helpful, Trimble notes, given the importance of using poles with the right length for your body.“The length of trekking poles does matter,” he says. “The general rule is, if the pole is at your side, your elbow should be at about a 90-degree angle, with your forearm essentially parallel with the floor.”Having an adjustable pole can not only provide some wiggle room, but it also gives you the option to adjust the length as you hike—extending the pole sometimes helps when going downhill, for example. Adjustable poles are easier to share, too, since they are customizable for different body types.Despite these benefits, however, Trimble says he prefers single-length trekking poles to adjustable ones, both for their lighter weight as well as increased stability and sturdiness.FoldabilitySome people use walking sticks throughout their hike, while others save them for certain scenarios like descents, stashing them in their backpacks the rest of the time.“For a wooden hiking staff, thinking about packability is also important,” Trimble says. Since it can’t be made smaller without breaking it, a wooden hiking stick may jut out from your backpack, potentially snagging on branches or other vegetation.Many non-wooden walking sticks and trekking poles are collapsible in some way, often with either a telescoping or folding design. That can make a big difference for longer camping trips, when you may want to periodically pack them away and have free hands, but it could be unnecessary for a day hike.Shock absorptionSome aluminum and carbon-fiber poles also have shock absorbers, helping soften the impact of repeatedly poking them into the terrain.That can be valuable for long hikes with a heavy backpack, or when hiking on rocks and other hard surfaces, as the poles take some pressure off your hands and arms by absorbing a little more of the impact each time they touch the ground.BasketsMany trekking poles have “baskets” near the bottom, whose extra surface area helps prevent the poles from sinking too deeply into the ground, and also helps hikers push off the ground with each step.The appropriate size of baskets depends on the terrain, with larger baskets often useful on snow or other wet ground. Smaller baskets can be lighter and less cumbersome, but they have drawbacks, too.“I’ve found the trekking poles with really small baskets can get caught in boulders, so having a slightly bigger basket can help in some situations,” Trimble says.Many companies make trekking poles with interchangeable baskets, allowing hikers to customize the size for each hike.CostThe cost of walking sticks and trekking poles varies widely, from less than $50 to more than $200. You may not need the most expensive models for a casual day hike, but while cheaper options are fine in some cases, you do tend to get what you pay for.“It’s tempting to buy something cheaper, but I’ve found a lot of times going with quality and provable brands for outdoor gear, even if costs more up front, will last longer in the long run,” Trimble says.(Here’s the other winter walking gear worth buying.)The best hiking polesWith these factors in mind, here are some highly regarded walking sticks for hiking and trekking poles, including a few examples of various types.Trekology Trek-Z Aluminim Trekking Polesvia amazon.comShop NowAt less than $40, these folding and adjustable aluminum poles from Trekology offer a nice value for beginner and budget-conscious hikers. The poles consist of three sections, which can fold down to just 15 inches for portability, and use flip-lock technology for an adjustment range of about 7 inches.They have moisture-wicking foam grips, and sturdy aluminum shafts for high durability. They’re on the heavy side, weighing more than 20 ounces per pair, but still a solid option for affordable, high-performance trekking poles.Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Trekking Polesvia amazon.comShop NowThe lower weight of carbon-fiber trekking poles often comes at higher prices, but these Cascade Mountain poles offer the advantages of 100 percent carbon fiber for less than $50.They’re adjustable and collapsible, with foam or cork grips, and a flip-lock telescoping design that can go from 54 inches fully extended to 26 inches when fully collapsed.A pair of these poles weighs just under 1 pound (16 ounces) without tips, although as with carbon-fiber poles in general, they may be less durable than similarly priced aluminum options.Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Polesvia amazon.comShop NowFor more serious hiking in difficult terrain and variable conditions, these popular $180 poles from Black Diamond offer the light weight of fully carbon-fiber shafts (about 17 ounces per pair) with unusually high sturdiness and durability.They also feature aluminum flip locks for adjustability rather than plastic, plus cork grips with foam extensions, although their price is a bit steep for many budgets.Leki Micro Vario Carbon Trekking Polesvia amazon.comShop NowIf you’re willing to spend $200 on trekking poles, these ultralight, compact, and adjustable Leki poles are probably worth consideration.Made by German ski- and trekking-pole giant Leki, the 100 percent carbon-fiber Micro Vario poles are renowned for their light weight—about 1 pound per pair—as well as their high durability and performance, even in difficult conditions.They’re highly compact, too, going from a fully extended 51 inches down to a collapsed length of just 15 inches.High Stream Gear Aluminum Trekking Polesvia amazon.comShop NowThese aluminum High Stream Gear poles weigh more than 20 ounces per pair, but they combine the toughness of aluminum with high foldability.They come in two sizes, measuring either 47 or 53 inches fully extended, and can collapse down to just 14.5 inches long at their most compact.They’re relatively affordable at about $50 for a pair, and also come with carrying holsters for your belt.TrailBuddy Aluminum Trekking Polesvia amazon.comShop NowAnother strong aluminum option, these TrailBuddy poles provide more durability than most carbon-fiber poles at a fraction of the price ($35). The trade-off is weight, as with other aluminum poles, although these still weigh roughly 20 ounces per pair.They’re 54 inches long fully extended, and collapse down to 24.5 inches long for packing. They’re available in several colors, and come with accessories including mud baskets, snow baskets, rubber tips, and padded straps.Leki Wanderfreund High Fives Walking Polevia amazon.comShop NowSome people prefer a single walking stick when possible, and that can work well in many situations. This solo Leki hiking staff weighs less than 10 ounces, yet also offers the sturdiness of aluminum, an adjustable shaft, and a cork handle for $70.It may not be the best option for long backcountry treks, but it does offer versatility, potentially serving as a cane or walking stick for everyday use as well as a hiking stick for taking walks in the woods.Leki donates a portion of the proceeds from this walking stick to the High Fives Foundation, a California-based nonprofit focused on preventing and providing support after life-altering injuries.Brazos Wooden Hiking Stickvia amazon.comShop NowIf you want a traditional wooden walking stick at a low weight and price, Brazos Walking Sticks might be able to help. The Texas company produces a range of wooden walking sticks with various designs and handle shapes, all made in the United States.This model is available in several types of wood—including ash, oak, hawthorn, hickory, ironwood, and pine—as well as multiple lengths, from 41 up to 58 inches.The weight and price vary by length and wood type, but the 55-inch hickory stick linked above weighs 1.35 pounds (21.6 ounces) and costs less than $40. That’s pretty light for a wooden walking stick, although it’s worth noting many pairs of aluminum or carbon-fiber trekking poles weigh less than this single walking stick.Next, check out the best walking workout. […]
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