Originally Posted by
fiddlehead
I really don't think it's a matter of being a purist or not.
It's more like: someone dreamed this up and has marketed it so that most hikers have bought it hook line and sinker.
You won't see ultra runners use them and they put in a lot more miles than thru-hikers generally.
When i am training for a hike, i am doing about 25 miles per day but i come in in the middle of the pack. My teacher runs about 25 mpd when he is just maintaining himself and adds another half again when training. He wins races. He carries a small day pack when training.
He is about 6'4 and weighs about 220. His knees are fine. He's been running like that since way before i met him in 97.
It's all in your head. I will admit they are good for a ford but unless you are in Tibet where there are hardly no trees, you can find a stick or piece of tree to use. Same for your tent pole.
I've tried them, they are a crutch for me. My balance is much better when i don't have anything in my hands. I can go much faster if i want and can keep my hands warm. Leather boots, hip belts, water pumps, extra shoes, poles, are in the same category as snake bite kits, hatchets, big knives, and guns: don't need them out there.
But of course, bottom line: HYOH and most importantly: Have Fun!