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Stopped using trekking poles on the JMT after nearly taking out a hiker coming down from Donohue Pass
Was bombing down a steep section near the top and swung my pole back without looking. Smacked this guy right in the shin. He wasn't even mad but I felt terrible. Realized I was relying on them too much for speed instead of just balance. Now I only pull them out for river crossings or long flats. Anybody else ditch poles on steep descents?
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grayjohnson9d ago
You ever accidentally clock yourself with your own pole while trying to adjust the strap? I did that coming down Forester Pass and nearly gave myself a black eye.
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beth_ward808d ago
Oh man @grayjohnson, that's brutal! I've definitely whacked myself in the shin with a strap before, but the face is a whole new level of ouch.
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