Calculate how tall your trekking poles should be from your height (0.68 × height), with uphill and downhill settings and a pole size chart.
Trekking Pole Height Formula
A common starting rule sets pole length to 68% of body height. Because the factor is unitless, height and result may use the same unit before conversion.
- P = trekking pole length
- H = body height
Starting-Length Table
| Body height | Calculated starting pole length |
|---|---|
| 150 cm | 102 cm |
| 160 cm | 108.8 cm |
| 170 cm | 115.6 cm |
| 180 cm | 122.4 cm |
| 190 cm | 129.2 cm |
Fit Check and Trail Adjustments
Use the calculated length as a starting point on level ground. With the pole tip planted naturally, shoulders should remain relaxed and the elbow should be near a right angle. Many hikers shorten poles for climbs and lengthen them for descents; footwear, grip style, terrain, and preference also matter.
Example
For a body height of 170 centimeters, 170 x 0.68 = 115.6 centimeters. If the pole has fixed increments, test the closest available setting rather than treating 115.6 centimeters as an exact requirement.
Sources
- Glymnis — Telescopic Trekking Poles Instruction Manual
- REI Co-op — How to Choose and Use Trekking Poles
