Are hiking staffs/poles ever authorized for use in military uniform?

There's no specific verbiage I've seen in any training circular, pamphlet, regulation, or other official Army-wide document specifically forbidding use of a staff or pole (as opposed to, say, an umbrella or a mobile phone). Assuming that nobody's chimes in with a blanket prohibition because none exists, it then comes down to Commander's prerogative. If the appropriate level commander approves use of a staff or pole as a control measure to mitigate risk, it is not only authorized but specifically prescribed. Lo and behold, several examples have already been given of situations in which use of a staff or pole is either mandated or widely accepted in specific situations for specific reasons.

Individuals could make the same decision on an individual level to address terrain hazards, or due to being more prone to ankle-rolling or similar injuries (after all, we all conduct informal risk assessments routinely). If done during individual or collective training events, the individual would require explicit or tacit approval of those in charge of the event, or to be so far out of sight that it makes no nevermind.

Commander's prerogative works the other way too though, and use of a staff or pole could easily be specifically NOT permitted in an event. Or, as has been suggested in other posts, a unit culture might not be accepting of their use.

No idea on the regulation of this is, so I am going to do a little research. I know it is not part of the proper uniform so I don't think it can be just used to walk around base. Your question about in the field. I would think it would be considered a tool, or safety item and would be allowed under what ever regulation covers your safety side of things.

I also agree with CW5 (Join to see) In the military it is how you sell it. Is it a safety device used to prevent and aid in safe movement through rough terrain? or is it a fancy stick used to make you look like you have swag? (Sorry never used the word Swag before had to try) Anyway good question.

I've never seen a "walking stick" used in garrison. However, it was a common sight at Bridgeport. As CSM Eric Olsen sighted, they are used for measuring water depth & id'ing hazards when crossing water.