Question: I recently purchased some collapsible trekking poles ([Komperdell Ridgehiker](http://www.mec.ca/product/5031-555/komperdell-ridgehiker-cork-powerlock-compact/?q=komperdell), made in Austria) and found them quite useful in terms of being able to extend or retract them slightly for going up and down hill when my knees are most strained with my 30-40 pound pack.

A major issue with the design was that it snapped at the plastic rings that make up the joints while going downhill with only a 15 pound pack and fast pace, with conscious effort to plunge them in a way where I would not bend them too much while moving forward.

If I am to be abusing the poles like this (absolutely am looking for them to be strong enough for the rare slip somewhere at a minimum) should I look for much pricier ones with stronger joints, or go with fixed? And if I choose fixed, should I size them at a 90° bend or should I size them for say uphill climbing or slightly longer for downhill and possibly adjust the hand loop much longer for when I use them for uphill? Or is the benefit of collapsing mainly for packed size and not much is gained by adjusting them for the incline?

Answer: 
Fixed length non-adjustable trekking poles have the advantages of being lighter, comprise of less failure points and sturdier (especially for cheap poles). On the other side of the medal, transporting them by airplane is more costly and they can be inconvenient when hitch hiking to/from a trailhead.

I have used slightly longer fixed trekking poles in order to be able to use them with my shelter system. I personally did not mind adjusting my hand on the long handle depending on the inclination of the trail. In fact, if they would have been non-fixed I would seldom adjust them as it takes time.

I prefered fixed length poles because of their weight and not having to adjust them every time I setup my shelter. I do not use loop handles so this wasn't a problem for me.

If you prefer quick adjustment and fixed-length; an interesting compromise are the [Black Diamond](http://blackdiamondequipment.com/en/trekking-poles/ultra-mountain-carbon-trekking-pole-BD112132_cfg.html?dwvar_BD112132__cfg_color=Carbon-Lava#start=1) [Z-Pole Series trekking poles](http://www.backpacker.com/gear-guide-2011-editors-choice-2011-black-diamond-ultra-distance-z-poles/gear/15339). They are fixed and collapsible for the most part. The top-most section allows you to adjust it to your liking.
My personal experience is that I do not hike/backpack with out trekking poles. I find them very useful on inclines, declines, and even flat terrain. I long ago lost count in the number of times they have save me from a fall, especially while backpacking.

I use the collapsible poles. The ease of storage is important to me. They also allow adjustment for different terrain. I've only had one pole go bad on me (bent), so to me it's not really a concern.