In the world of trail running, especially on mountainous terrain, trail poles are more than just an accessory. Depending on the terrain and race profile, they can play a key role in improving performance by offering better stability, reducing fatigue, and protecting the joints. Using them can help runners better manage ascents, descents, and technical terrain, making each stage of the race smoother and safer.
When to use Trail Poles?
Using trail poles is mainly recommended for races with significant elevation gain or when the terrain is particularly rough. They are not useful if the race is fast or too rolling, as the weight handicap of the poles does not compensate for the benefits on climbs or descents. No study shows that you will go faster or farther, but regular use of poles in ultra trail will undeniably bring comfort if you know how to choose and use them.
The benefits of poles in trail running
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Reduction of muscle fatigue: By distributing effort between the upper and lower body, trail poles relieve the quadriceps and calves, especially on long distances like ultra trails. If your weak point is in the calves or thighs, poles can help compensate for that.
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Improved stability: They help maintain balance, thus limiting the risk of falls on technical trails, especially on snow or steep descents.
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Joint protection on descents: By absorbing shocks, they reduce impact on knees and ankles.
Disadvantages of poles in trail running
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Extra weight to carry: if the trail is rolling and you will use the poles little, then the weight of the poles becomes a disadvantage.
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Increased heart rate if you do not regulate your pace, due to the engagement of more muscle groups with the upper body. You must therefore use the poles to balance the load, but without overexerting yourself, which would be harmful in ultra.
Raidlight trail poles are designed to offer trail runners a perfect balance between performance, lightness, and durability. Whether you are climbing, descending, or on technical terrain, they are there to provide support, stability, and comfort, while respecting our commitment to innovative and sustainable products.
Compact Z Carbon Trail Poles
The Compact Z Carbon poles are designed to optimize trail running practice in all types of environments. Ultralight and compact, they are easy to carry and use, even in the toughest conditions.
Ideal for:
- Trail runners looking for compact and lightweight poles for varied races.
- Long races and ultra trails where comfort, grip, and storage are quick and easy.
Z Carbon Strap Trail Poles
The Z Carbon Strap poles have the same features as the Compact Z Carbon poles, with the addition of integrated 3D mesh gloves for optimal comfort and easy use.
The glove improves the efficiency of using trail poles, especially on ultra trails, notably thanks to:
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Gesture optimization: Like in cross-country skiing, the glove allows you to relax your hand after the push while keeping control of the pole. This promotes a smooth and more natural movement.
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Better energy transmission: By distributing effort between the hand and wrist, it allows you to push more effectively uphill, thus reducing muscle fatigue.
Ideal for: Long races and ultra trails where comfort, grip, and storage are quick and easy.
Hybrid Carbon Trail Poles
Hybrid Carbon trail poles are designed to be versatile companions all year round. They come with three different tips (universal, snow, trekking) to adapt to all terrains and weather conditions.
Ideal for:
- Trail runners looking for a versatile trail pole suitable for all seasons.
- Races with varied terrain requiring different types of tips.
Ultralight Carbon Trail Poles Made In France
Ultralight Carbon trail poles Made in France are designed to offer optimal performance on Vertical Kilometer races and races where you won’t need to fold and store your poles. Made in France, they combine lightness and durability to meet the demands of the most demanding trail runners.
Ideal for: Trail runners looking for ultra-light poles for races with steep elevation like a vertical kilometer, or if your use does not require folding your poles.
These Raidlight trail poles offer a variety of options in terms of materials, weight, and features to meet the specific needs of trail runners, whether for short-distance trails or ultra trails, on varied terrain.
Trail Pole Accessories
- The Pod 2in1 Raidlight Quiver is ideal for trail runners who regularly use poles. The quiver combines functionality and practicality for better gear management on the trail. It is designed to ensure good stability, even in motion. Its ingenious forward tilt system allows you to take out or store poles with a single gesture, which is particularly useful on technical sections or during transitions between climbs and descents. This quiver fits all types of poles (3-section or telescopic). Its zipped side pocket offers an additional 6L of storage.
- Our trail belts made in France, on the other hand, integrate pole holders for optimal comfort and quality Made in France manufacturing. They are designed to be light and durable, ensuring consistent performance and freedom of movement even on the most demanding courses.
- Finally, our trail packs and vests, equipped with several integrated pole holders, offer runners the possibility to choose the placement of their poles according to their preferences, thus guaranteeing optimal freedom of movement.
At Raidlight, we understand that every trail runner is unique, which is why we offer carrying solutions adapted to all needs, guaranteeing practicality, lightness, and durability for an optimal running experience.
