Walking sticks are very useful. When walking downhill, they provide more stability and relieve the strain on the lower joints. It is also easier to walk uphill with them. If you encounter wild animals, you have something to protect yourself with. Your hands are in motion all day, so your fingers don't swell after a long day of walking. They are also super useful for technically difficult parts of the trail, such as mud, rocks and river crossings. They significantly reduce the chance of you falling and spraining your ankle. And finally, some tents can be built with trekking poles. This allows you to keep your tent poles at home and save some weight. I used to hate trekking poles too. But since I started using them I won't go back.

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