Bamboo VS Metal Hiking Poles?

[Davefromva]

So whats your preference? Bamboo Trekking Poles or Metal Trekking Poles or do you use Wooden Walking Sticks or do you use walking sticks at all?

Would really like to hear your feedback on your idea of the best type of Trekking/Hiking Stick.

Whats better Metal or Bamboo..Bamboo seems to be a better choice if you look at strength to weight ratio compared to metal.

[Grandpa]

Adjustable is the key for me, which probably means metal. I seldom use my sticks on the trail but carry them for stream crossings and other sticky spots as well as using them for tarp poles.

[Davefromva]

I could see where adjustable could be handy But for me if im going to be carrying that weight it might as well be in my hands to aid in balancing me so the part of it being collapsible isn't that important to me since ill be holding it the majority of the trip. I typically use an external frame pack in spring and fall so if i need saddle my trekker I can just mount it to the side of the pack.

Ive fallen in love with the strength:weight ratio for the bamboo poles now over the metal ones. I guess it all comes down to, "To Each His Own" type of thing. We all know what works for us.

[Lamebeaver]

The adjustable feature allows you to shorten them for accending and lengthen them for decents. You can also make one longer than the other if the trail traverses a steep slope.