Trekking Pole Guide
Your APEX trekking poles are engineered for reliable performance across changing terrain. Use this guide to set your baseline length, adjust the QuickLock™ system, use the wrist straps correctly and keep your poles performing at their best.
01 Before You Hike
Inspect, Extend & SecureTake 60 seconds before every hike to check your poles.
- Inspect the shafts. Check for cracks, deep gouges or significant bends. Never use a damaged pole.
- Check the extension marks. Never extend a lower shaft section beyond the STOP line.
- Test the QuickLock™. Lock both levers, plant the tips on firm ground and apply firm downward pressure.
02 Set Your Pole Length
Baseline & TerrainStand naturally on level ground with the tips beside your feet. Adjust each pole until your elbow forms roughly a 90° angle.
Extending either lower shaft section beyond the STOP mark can cause instability, damage or sudden collapse.
03 Adjust the QuickLock™ System
Set Reliable Clamping TensionClose the lever firmly without excessive force. Make small adjustments until the section stays secure under firm downward pressure.
Flip the QuickLock™ lever fully open.
Slide to the desired mark, staying below the STOP mark.
Turn the adjustment nut 1/4 turn to tighten or loosen.
Close firmly by hand, then test under downward pressure.
Open the lever, wipe the shaft clean and dry, tighten the adjustment nut 1/4 turn clockwise, then retest.
Do not force it. Loosen the adjustment nut 1/4 turn counterclockwise and check the clamp for debris.
Never apply grease, oil, silicone spray or WD-40 to the shaft or clamp. Lubricants can cause a section to slip unexpectedly.
04 Use the Wrist Straps Correctly
Support the Hand Without Over-GrippingCorrect strap use transfers load through the heel of your hand for a lighter, more relaxed grip.
Correct
The strap supports the heel of your hand for a lighter grip that stays relaxed, not clenched.
- Strap sits flat across the back of the hand
- Grip stays relaxed, fingers are not gripping the pole tightly
- Hand releases instantly with no unclipping needed
Slip your hands free of the straps when crossing fast water, dense brush or technical terrain where a trapped wrist could turn a stumble into an injury.
05 Tips, Baskets & Trail Care
Match the Contact Point to the TerrainTungsten Carbide Tip
Best on dirt, gravel, packed trails and ice. Use the exposed tip for maximum bite.
Rubber Tip Protector
Use on pavement and sensitive rock to reduce noise and protect the surface.
Boot Tip
Use on firm, smooth surfaces when a broader rolling contact point feels more natural.
Mud & Snow Baskets
Prevent the pole from sinking too deeply into soft or loose terrain.
06 After Your Hike
Clean, Dry & Store- Clean & dry. Separate telescoping sections after wet or muddy use; wipe clean and dry fully before storing.
- Skip the lubricant. Never oil or grease the shafts or QuickLock™ clamping surfaces.
- Store dry. Keep poles indoors in a dry location; leave levers open for long-term storage.
- Both lower shafts sit below the STOP mark
- Each QuickLock™ lever closes with firm resistance
- Neither pole slips when loaded from above
- Straps support the hand without restricting circulation
- Tips and baskets are secure and free of critical wear