How to use trekking poles for balance on icy paths in the Cairngorms?

The Cairngorms in winter are breathtaking – but the icy paths can be treacherous. A thin layer of transparent ice (black ice) or hard, polished snow can turn a moderate trail into a skating rink. Trekking poles are essential for balance, but only if you equip them correctly and use the right technique. Here’s how to stay upright on icy Cairngorms paths.

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The right tip for ice: carbide alone is not enough

On hard, solid ice, a standard carbide tip skids sideways. You need additional grip. Two options:

• Ice grips (spiked rubber covers): These slip over your carbide tip and have 2–4 small metal spikes. They provide excellent traction on flat to moderately sloped ice. Brands: Leki Ice Grips, Black Diamond Ice Tip, Komperdell Ice Star.
• Ice claws (replaceable tip): Some poles have a dedicated ice claw tip – a star‑shaped cluster of spikes. More aggressive than ice grips, ideal for steeper ice.

For the Cairngorms’ icy paths (e.g., the summit plateau routes or the Lairig Ghru), ice grips are usually sufficient. For steep, hard ice (e.g., on Cairn Gorm itself), ice claws or even an ice axe may be needed.

Set up your poles for ice

• Lengthen your poles by 5–10 cm compared to flat ground. A longer pole allows you to plant ahead and brace.
• Remove rubber tips – you need the carbide or spikes to bite.
• Use small baskets – large snow baskets can tilt the tip, reducing grip. Remove baskets entirely if they interfere.
• Check that ice grips are securely attached – they should not rotate.

Technique for walking on icy paths

1. Use both poles – never one. Four points of contact are far more stable than three.
2. Plant vertically – an angled plant will skid. Push the pole straight down until the spikes or carbide bite.
3. Plant ahead of your feet – about 30–40 cm in front of your toes. This creates a braking and balancing triangle.
4. Apply firm, steady pressure – a light tap will not penetrate the ice. Push down until you feel the tip lock.
5. Take short, flat‑footed steps – avoid lifting your feet high; shuffle or slide your feet forward. Keep your weight centred.
6. On descents, use double planting – plant both poles together ahead, then step down. This transfers weight to your arms and brakes your descent.
7. On ascents, shorten poles slightly (relative to your ice setting) and use double planting to pull yourself up.

When to use an ice axe instead

On steep, exposed icy slopes (e.g., the final pitch to Cairn Gorm’s summit in winter), trekking poles with ice grips are not enough. Switch to a single ice axe for self‑arrest capability. Poles can be stowed. For most icy paths (up to about 20° slope), poles with ice grips are safe.

Additional tips for Cairngorms winter

• Wear microspikes or crampons on your boots – poles alone cannot compensate for lack of foot traction. Combine poles with footwear traction.
• Test the ice before committing – tap the pole tip on the ice. If it skids, find a different placement or add more pressure.
• Keep your torso upright – leaning forward reduces stability. Use poles to help you stay tall.
• Unclip wrist straps on very steep sections – if you fall, you don’t want a pole strapped to your wrist. Hold the pole loosely.
• Practice on a safe patch first – before a high‑exposure icy traverse, find a gentle icy slope to test your pole grip and technique.

Common mistakes on ice

• Using rubber tips – dangerous, they slide.
• Planting poles at an angle – causes skidding.
• Poles too short – forces you to lean forward, increasing fall risk.
• Using only one pole – insufficient stability.
• Walking with a normal stride – short, flat steps are safer.

Recommended gear for Cairngorms icy paths

• Poles: Aluminium with lever locks (carbon can snap). Leki Makalu or Black Diamond Trail Pro.
• Ice grips: Leki Ice Grips or Black Diamond Ice Tip (€10–15).
• Microspikes: Kahtoola or Hillsound for your boots.
• Helmet and ice axe for steep, exposed sections.

Final verdict

On icy paths in the Cairngorms, trekking poles with ice grips or ice claws are highly effective for balance – but only when combined with proper technique. Lengthen your poles, plant vertically, use double planting on descents, and take short, flat steps. Always pair with microspikes on your boots. For steep, exposed ice, switch to an ice axe. With the right equipment and technique, you’ll walk icy trails with confidence and safety.