I was thinking about the threads where folks were talking about soaking several pairs of gloves/mittens on a hike. After looking at a dozen youtube video's I don't see anyone really pointing out a key issue for cold weather. Assuming everybody puts their hands into their straps from the bottom and has the twist in the loop and loop length set, nobody is talking about open and closing your hands while poling. The technique we taught for XC ski poles would also apply to hiking. Grip the pole on the down stroke then open your hand on the up stroke. Your straps will have the pole grip where you want it as soon as you plant the pole tip and push down. This provides a constant open and close cycle that pumps blood though the hands keeping them warm in very light gloves. It also helps prevent hand cramping.
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