Perks
Swiss Gear uses an anti-shock rubber carbide design to ease the pressure off your arms and wrists on rough terrain. Each trekking pole also has a compass built in to the handle for navigation needs when you find yourself in a bind.
Sacrifices
Due to their inexpensive cost, the Swiss Gear trekking poles are made cheaply. Although the aluminum alloy frame is durable, the basket and tip are poorly constructed and are apt to break. The baskets are too large and snag on rocks and shrubs, ripping off easily. The rubber tips rub on rocks and round off quickly.
Bottom Line
Due to their cheap design, the Swiss Gear trekking poles are recommended only for light hiking for short periods. They are not recommended for extended backpacking trips.
