Hiking with poles is better for reducing stress on the hiker’s back, knees, feet, and legs.  They help reduce joint stress when climbing mountains and especially when carrying weight. Trekking poles also help stabilize the hiker. Rock hopping across a stream is safer with poles extended into the water and can reduce the risk of falls on uneven terrain. While newcomers to trekking poles might find them awkward and cumbersome at first, the rewards of hiking with poles outweigh the obstacles.