I own a white ash hiking staff that I made for my Dad about 30 years ago. Dad always said if a bear came at him that staff across the snout might change his mind. I say or make it worse! I use two trekking poles for the first time last year. I wont be without them now. My knees are notwhat they used to be, and they really help. They are also useful on the icey spots. Mine are chepo Kswiss from farmand fleet! So far they ae holdingup well!