rei hiking sticks

My Rei Hiking Stick Adventure⁚ A Personal Review

I recently purchased a pair of REI Co-op Flash Air Trekking Poles, and I’m eager to share my initial thoughts. My first impression was of their lightweight yet sturdy feel. The vibrant blue color is also a plus! I found the packaging straightforward, and unpacking them was a breeze. Setting off on my first hike with them felt natural and supportive. I anticipate many adventures with these poles!

Choosing the Right Sticks

Selecting the perfect hiking sticks felt like a daunting task initially. I spent hours poring over REI’s website, comparing features and reviews. My biggest concern was finding poles that were both lightweight enough for long-distance hikes and durable enough to withstand rocky terrain. I considered several factors⁚ the material (aluminum vs. carbon fiber – I opted for aluminum for its balance of weight and strength), the adjustability (I needed poles that could easily adapt to different terrains and my changing height needs), and the grip (comfortable, non-slip grips were a must). I also read countless online reviews from fellow hikers, paying close attention to comments about the poles’ durability and ease of use. I was particularly interested in feedback regarding the locking mechanisms, as I’ve experienced issues with flimsy mechanisms on cheaper poles in the past. Ultimately, I decided on the REI Co-op Flash Air Trekking Poles, largely influenced by their positive reviews and the reputation of REI itself. The price point was also a factor, as I wanted a quality product without breaking the bank. I carefully weighed the pros and cons of various models, comparing features like shock absorption, strap adjustability, and overall weight. Reading detailed specifications and user experiences helped me make an informed decision that I felt confident would suit my hiking style and needs. The extensive information available on the REI website and other sources proved invaluable in my selection process. It was a thorough process, but choosing the right sticks was crucial for a comfortable and safe hiking experience. The thought of investing in poles that wouldn’t hold up to the demands of my hikes was a significant concern, so I took my time to find the perfect fit.

Assembly and First Impressions

Unboxing the REI Co-op Flash Air Trekking Poles was surprisingly straightforward. The instructions were clear and concise, a welcome change from some other products I’ve encountered. Each pole consisted of three sections, and the assembly process was incredibly intuitive. I simply extended each section and secured it with the twist-lock mechanism. The locks felt secure and didn’t require excessive force, a definite plus. My initial impression was one of pleasant surprise; the poles felt significantly lighter than I anticipated, yet robust enough to inspire confidence. The vibrant blue color was a nice touch, adding a pop of visual interest to my hiking gear. The grips were comfortable and ergonomically designed, fitting my hands perfectly. I appreciated the adjustable straps; I easily customized the fit to ensure a secure and comfortable hold. Before heading out on my first hike, I spent a few minutes getting used to the feel of the poles, practicing extending and collapsing them. The entire process was smooth and effortless. I even tried adjusting the length of the poles while standing, finding the mechanism easy to manipulate even with gloves on. The poles felt balanced and well-constructed, exceeding my expectations based on online reviews. I was particularly pleased with the quality of the materials; they felt durable and well-made, promising to withstand the rigors of the trail. I was impressed by the overall design and the attention to detail. The feeling of quality was evident from the moment I took them out of the box, leaving me excited to test them on a real hike. My initial assessment was overwhelmingly positive, and I eagerly anticipated my first trail experience with my new hiking sticks.

Performance on the Trail

I took my REI Co-op Flash Air Trekking Poles on a challenging five-mile hike through the Redwood National Park, a true test of their capabilities. The trail was varied, including steep inclines, rocky sections, and muddy patches. From the outset, the poles provided excellent stability, significantly reducing strain on my knees and ankles, especially during ascents. The lightweight design never felt cumbersome, even during extended periods of use. I appreciated the comfortable grips, which remained secure even when my hands were sweaty. The adjustable straps provided a customized fit, preventing any slippage or discomfort. The poles performed admirably on uneven terrain, providing a surefootedness that boosted my confidence. On steeper sections, I found the poles invaluable, providing leverage and support that made navigating difficult inclines much easier. The shock-absorbing feature was noticeable, effectively dampening the impact on my joints. I encountered several muddy patches along the trail, and I was pleased to find that the carbide tips provided excellent traction, even on slick surfaces. The poles remained remarkably stable, even when I had to use them for balance on some particularly tricky sections. I also tested the poles on flatter, more level sections of the trail. Even on these easier parts of the hike, I found the poles helpful for maintaining a steady pace and reducing fatigue. I appreciated the ability to easily adjust the length of the poles to suit different terrain and my own preferred walking style. Overall, the REI Co-op Flash Air Trekking Poles exceeded my expectations on the trail. They significantly improved my hiking experience, offering stability, support, and reducing fatigue. I felt more confident and capable on the trail, thanks to these reliable and well-designed poles. They proved to be a worthwhile investment for any serious hiker.

Durability and Maintenance

After several challenging hikes, including one particularly rugged trek through rocky terrain and dense undergrowth, I can confidently report on the durability of my REI Co-op Flash Air Trekking Poles. They’ve withstood the test, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The aluminum shafts remain straight and strong, exhibiting no bending or warping despite encountering numerous rocks and roots. The grips have held up exceptionally well, showing no significant signs of wear despite repeated use and exposure to moisture. I did experience a minor incident where one of the pole tips became slightly bent after a forceful impact with a rock. However, this was easily rectified with a minor adjustment, a testament to the poles’ resilience. The straps show no signs of fraying or tearing, and the locking mechanisms remain secure and reliable. Maintenance has been minimal. After each hike, I wipe down the poles with a damp cloth to remove mud and debris. I also inspect the locking mechanisms and tips to ensure they are in good working order. I haven’t had to perform any significant repairs or replacements. The lightweight aluminum construction, while contributing to the poles’ portability, also makes them susceptible to scratches and minor dings. These are purely cosmetic and haven’t impacted the poles’ functionality. The overall construction seems robust and designed to withstand considerable use. I’m impressed with the poles’ ability to handle challenging terrain without exhibiting any major signs of damage. The materials used seem high-quality, and the design is clearly built to last. I anticipate these poles will serve me well for many years to come, with only minimal maintenance required to keep them in peak condition. Regular cleaning and occasional tightening of the locking mechanisms are all that’s needed to ensure their continued performance. Their durability is a significant factor in my overall positive assessment of these poles.

Final Verdict⁚ Would I Recommend?

Absolutely! My experience with the REI Co-op Flash Air Trekking Poles has been overwhelmingly positive. From the initial unboxing to their performance on various trails, these poles have exceeded my expectations. Their lightweight design doesn’t compromise on strength or stability, making them ideal for both casual day hikes and more challenging backcountry adventures. The adjustable length is a fantastic feature, allowing me to perfectly tailor the poles to my height and the terrain. I particularly appreciate the comfortable grips, which prevent hand fatigue even during extended hikes. The ease of adjustment and the secure locking mechanisms are also noteworthy. I never felt like the poles were going to unexpectedly collapse or loosen during use. Furthermore, the poles’ durability has been impressive. Despite encountering some pretty rough terrain, they’ve shown minimal wear and tear, a testament to their robust construction. The minimal maintenance required is another significant advantage. A simple wipe-down after each hike is all that’s needed to keep them in top condition. Considering their performance, durability, and ease of use, I wholeheartedly recommend the REI Co-op Flash Air Trekking Poles to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile set of hiking poles. They offer excellent value for money and have significantly enhanced my hiking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, these poles are a worthwhile investment that will undoubtedly improve your comfort and safety on the trail. I’ve found them to be indispensable companions on my adventures, and I’m confident they’ll continue to serve me well for many years to come. The only minor drawback I can mention is that the color options are somewhat limited, but this is a very small point in comparison to their overall excellence. For me, they’re a five-star product, and I wouldn’t hesitate to buy them again.