[pct-l] hiking poles

[Steven.Setzer at Colorado.EDU (Steve Setzer)]

Jim,

I just remembered another important benefit of trekking poles.  When I
hike without them, my hands swell because blood pools in them.  That's
caused by my hands hanging and swinging down at my sides.  I could tuck
them into my shoulder straps but I don't really like that. By using poles,
my arms have something to do and I never get any hand swelling.  Plus it
allows me to get into a nice rhythm.

In order to have this benefit, you would need two poles.

Steve