I've been trail running for decades, but at age 72 I'm moving more towards speed walking. If there are people in the Santa Monica mountains using poles, I haven't seen them so my info came from running emails I subscribe to and based on that I decided to try them. Wirecutter reviewed these favorably so I ordered and have been using them for a month. It took some practice but now have the movement integrated even with speed walking. They are especially a help going uphill. For segments when I do run, I can hold them easily in one hand. The poles are light but sturdy, the adjustment clamps hold well and the rubber tips work great on concrete. On dirt trails, the tips come off easily to use the spike. Going up or down hills with loose leaves or soil gives much more security. Looking forward to getting even better with the poles.