I've converted at least 5 people to the Church of Trekking Poles. I can't imagine hiking hilly terrain without them. They just take so much pressure off your knees, especially going downhill and they provide two more "legs" for balance. They've saved me from falling countless times. I love them.

I have some Leki poles that I bought a couple of years ago and my only "complaint" with them is that they don't telescope down as much as newer models. So that makes it more difficult to stow them in my pack or travel with them (when I have to fit them in a suitcase).

But I love the cork grip and the 10 degree angled handles...they are great and every hiker should have a pair.