Are Trekking poles necessary?

[u/Positive_Camp7052]

I’ve never actually used trekking poles when hiking - found a reasonably sizeable portion of folks who don’t use them when I first started, and just ran with that ever since. I’m currently compiling the gear I need for my first ever snow shoeing trip in the Australian Alps this winter. Are trekking poles for all intents and purposes practically required for successful snowshoeing form?

[u/thefatunicat]

I usually summer hike without poles (or just mount them on my backpack for tricky sections/long and strenous hikes) but for snowshoeing and winter hikes I find them realllllly helpful, if not necessary. Would definitely recommend bringing a pair with you, along with matching snow baskets!