TREKKING POLE GUIDE
Your APEX trekking poles are designed for reliable performance across changing terrain. Use this guide to set your pole length, adjust the QuickLock™ system, use the wrist straps correctly, and keep your poles performing at their best.
01BEFORE YOU HIKE
Take 60 seconds before every hike to check your poles.
- Inspect the shafts. Check for cracks, deep gouges, or significant bends. Do not use a damaged pole.
- Check the extension marks. Never extend a pole section beyond the STOP / MAX line.
- Test the QuickLock™ system. Lock both levers, place the tips firmly on level ground, and apply firm downward pressure. The sections should remain secure without slipping.
02SET YOUR POLE LENGTH
On level ground, stand naturally with the pole tips beside your feet. Adjust the poles until your elbows are close to a 90-degree angle.
Keep the telescoping sections extended evenly whenever possible. This helps maintain balanced performance and keeps each section within its intended adjustment range.
| TERRAIN | ADJUSTMENT | WHY |
|---|---|---|
| UPHILL | Shorten 5–10 cm | Keeps your hands comfortable and helps you maintain a natural climbing position. |
| DOWNHILL | Lengthen 5–10 cm | Provides additional reach and support on descents. |
| SIDEHILL | Shorten uphill pole; lengthen downhill pole | Helps maintain balance while traversing a slope. |
03ADJUST THE QUICKLOCK™ SYSTEM
OPEN
Flip the QuickLock lever fully open.
SET LENGTH
Slide the shaft to the desired measurement. Stay below the STOP / MAX line.
SET TENSION
With the lever open, turn the adjustment nut clockwise to tighten or counter-clockwise to loosen. Use 1/4-turn adjustments.
LOCK & TEST
Close the lever firmly by hand, then test the pole under downward pressure before hiking.
QUICKLOCK™ TROUBLESHOOTING
If a section slips: Open the lever, wipe the shaft clean and dry, tighten the adjustment nut 1/4 turn clockwise, then retest.
If the lever is difficult to close: Do not force it. Loosen the adjustment nut 1/4 turn counter-clockwise and check the clamp for dirt or debris.
04USE THE WRIST STRAPS CORRECTLY
1 ENTER
Place your hand up through the strap.
2 LOWER
Lower your hand toward the grip.
3 GRIP
Grip the handle with the strap supporting the base of your hand.
4 ADJUST
Adjust the strap for a secure, comfortable fit.
5 CHECK
Confirm the strap sits securely around your wrist.
Correct strap use reduces hand fatigue and helps maintain a relaxed grip. Remove your hands from the straps when a quick release may be safer on technical terrain or at water crossings.
05TIPS, BASKETS & TRAIL CARE
| ATTACHMENT | BEST FOR | USE |
|---|---|---|
| TUNGSTEN CARBIDE TIP | Dirt, gravel, packed trails, ice | Use the exposed tip for maximum grip on natural and uneven terrain. |
| RUBBER TIP | Pavement, hard surfaces, sensitive rock | Reduces noise and vibration and helps protect hard surfaces. |
| MUD / SNOW BASKET | Mud, soft sand, scree, snow | Helps prevent the pole from sinking too deeply into soft terrain. |
06AFTER YOUR HIKE
- Clean and dry. After wet or muddy use, separate the telescoping sections, wipe them clean with water, and allow them to dry completely before reassembly.
- Keep clamp surfaces dry. Do not apply grease, oil, or WD-40 to the shafts or QuickLock™ clamping surfaces. Lubricants can reduce holding power.
- Store dry. Store poles indoors in a dry location. For long-term storage, leave the QuickLock™ levers open.
BEFORE EVERY HIKE
Confirm each QuickLock™ is secure, each pole section is below the STOP / MAX line, and both poles hold firmly under downward pressure.
This guide covers general setup, use, and care for APEX Carbon Fiber and Aluminum Trekking Poles. Always use good judgment and adapt your technique to trail conditions.