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Polefag here, 56 years old. Yeah, they look dumb, but they sure help. I only started using them a few years ago. Long term they take a load off your knees. They help with stability on steep, slippery surfaces. Just yesterday I went for a hike on a trail up a hillside, with a little packed snow on it, just enough to be sketchy. I always use them when backpacking, and if you ever have to cross a swift stream, you'll appreciate them. I don't always use them while hiking with little to no pack weight on flat trails. Pic related, factory shot of my poles. They collapse and strap on the pack when not in use, and also serve as tent poles for an MSR "Missing Link," and other lightweight tents, good for dual use.
