I started using poles several years ago and found them helpful on long, steep descents as they eased the strain on my creaking joints. I became quite enthusiastic and even used them on lowland walks. I soon realized that they were a hindrance when climbing stiles, and a wretched nuisance on unfamiliar routes when close attention to the map was required. Fortunately, I use a wrist satnav but I've sometimes wondered how walkers cope using conventional models.
I experimented, unsuccessfully, with a device for attaching a map to a pole. I attached elastic loops to the shoulder straps of my rucksack into which I could tuck the pole handles when I needed to take a pee or a photograph. I ceased using poles on lowland walks only to find that I had come to rely on them and that my sense of balance had been impaired. This took some time to improve.
Nowadays, I only use poles in upland areas. Most of the time they remain attached to my rucksack and are only used on long, steep descents and, occasionally, on steep ascents.
I wonder how many walkers have been injured by tripping over their poles?
Hugh