[at-l] Re: Trekking poles wood vs commercial

[hopefl at juno.com (hopefl@xxxxxxxx)]

I saw many broken poles this year. If "commercial" poles are used, I recommend buying an established named brand. These are easily repaired or replaced by outfitters because of the desire on the part of the manufacturers to keep a good reputation. A simple phone call from the outfitter to the manufacturer typically got the broken part replace or the whole pole replaced.

I had some off brand poles. Campmor was very good to uphold the warranty all three time I needed them replaced. However, I'd have to notify Campmor and then hike for a week with the broken pole until I could get to the next town.

Looking back I wish I had been using Leki or another brand name. By the way, if this years is a good measure of pole durability, about 1000 miles of continuous use is all poles are good for. At that point some repair or replacement is needed.  Hopeful

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