have you ever used a trekking pole

I've never bought a trekking pole. Instead, when I first started hiking about 15yrs. ago, I found a branch on the ground to use while hiking. Still use it to this day. A trekking pole (hiking staff)can be very useful while hiking. I used mine for crossing rocky creeks, to stabilize myself when walking on unstable surfaces(loose soil/gravel,rocks, mud), helping me climb a hill and since I also did a lot of backpacking I used mine as a fishing pole. Just tied line to it with a hook, sinker, bobber. There are many useful things that a trekking pole is good for. It can be habit-forming but to me, it's a good habit.

I never use a trekking pole being young and strong. My mother though, suffers from occasional joint pain and so finds the use of a *pair* of trekking poles to be immeasurably useful.

My sister gave me trekking pole on Christmas. I use it for crossing small creek and climbing the hill. I wouldn't say it's habit forming since I only use it when I think I need it.

We use wooden hiking sticks - very convenient and inexpensive. Sometimes I think it is a hassle to carry one - especially if my hands are cold - but around here it is a great benefit in case of animal attacks. I live in the middle of the Klamath National Forest.