I use them backpacking over rough terrain. It's particularly useful at helping balance when navigating slippery ground like crossing streams or swampland, and a lot of elevation changes in forested areas. I also use them to keep my tent up since it's not freestanding, so they are functional at camp too. As
>>2249671 mentions, it also takes weight off your knees and transfers some impact to your arms, which helps once you're 3+ hours into a hike in the highlands.
