I have been backpacking for 30+ years and have always used trekking poles, for years only one and the last couple of years two. This fall I tried going without any and was amazed at how much easier the actual hiking was. I moved freer and used less energy. My stride seems more natural.I missed them in situations where I needed them for stability, like stream crossings but overall the experience has been positive. I will try it a few more times before I discard the poles but so far it looks like without may be the way to go for me. YMMV