Solution to poles problem: Some Ocean State Job Lot stores have adjustable poles for $10 a pair. You have to go thru them and find ones that work but, such a deal.
hikermom
Poles - Appalachian Trail
system
#2
Of course, you have to be in Rhode Island to take advantage of the OS job lot. 
As a Rhody native, I have done my share of shopping at Job Lot. It has been several years since I’ve shopped there. Now they have trekking poles? Wow…times change.
Mags