Not only does the obvious knee pain reduction apply, but also they really help with balance. 4 legs is better than 2 in a lot of situations. Especially crossing creeks; wading or boulder hopping. Other uses? Tarp shelter poles, medical splint, shooting sticks, an impromptu weapon, snow probes, camera bi-pod, and countless others I’ve never heard of I’m sure.

Buy the tougher back country poles. Many are not designed for horizontal weight loads that come with backcountry use (i.e., getting up from falls or use in snow.)

Sections make them compact, but more moving parts have more parts to fail (I still use a 3 section pole). Anti-shock is a debate. They squeek and ping because of the springs/bushings even when turned off. I have poles with anti-shock but I keep them turned off because I don't like the squishy feeling they give.

Foam is not as tough as rubber and tends to get slippery, dirty, and funky. Rubber is tougher and easier to clean. Some cheaper rubber is pretty slippery though. Wrist straps help, but I'm afraid of them. If I take a fall, I want those poles as far from me as they can get.

I use Leki Super Makalu Ergos and like them a lot. I like the Black Diamond poles too and a lot of people like the ease of the flick lock system BD uses.

I have tons of information and tips on trekking poles so if you have more questions send me a PM. The most important thing you can do is NOT lubricate them. Ever. The locks are based on friction. You lube them and they will colapse. They are a pain, or impossible to de-grease.

Hope this helps.