Best Trekking Poles

10 Best Trekking Poles 2024

(Last Updated: February 21, 2020)

Over the past decades, trekking poles have become more commonplace among backpackers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts not merely as a passing whim but as a safety and convenience necessity. These pairs of poles are important for some reasons such as:

  • Weight distribution. As you trek on whichever terrain, downhill or uphill, some the weight your arms would have borne gets transmitted to these units.
  • Ease of downhill descent. Going downhill has never been more fun, with much ease on joints thanks to trekking poles.
  • Stability. Stability and balance are essential for a successful hike and these poles are a good way of enhancing stability while on the go because they will act as an additional pair of legs.
  • Exercise. If you’d love to reduce your calories by up to 20% over time, try hiking or any other outdoor activity using trekking poles

 

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BAFX Products Anti Shock Hiking / Walking / Trekking Trail Poles 9.6
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Hiker Hunger Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles 9.4
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Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles 9.1
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Foxelli Trekking Poles 9.8
Ohuhu Retractable Anti Shock Trekking Poles 9.4
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Paria Outdoor Tri-Fold Carbon Cork Trekking Poles 9.5
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Himal Outdoors Folding Collapsible Trekking Poles with EVA Foam Handles 9.7
WildHorn Outfitters Taalo Trekking/Hiking Poles 9.3
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High Trek Trekking Poles with Sweat Absorbing EVA Grips 9.8
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Sterling Endurance Trekking Poles 9.7

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Contents

Types of Trekking Poles

There are different types of trekking poles in the market today and having the right unit for your activity makes your ventures much more fun and less cumbersome.

Telescoping trekking poles

Telescoping poles usually have three or four sections allowing them to adjust to different height needs.

Single-piece trekking poles

These poles, unlike their telescoping counterparts, are a single piece with a fixed height and no adjustability option. They are at times considered stronger as joints tend to weaken the poles.

Folding trekking poles

Folding poles will compact easily to a smaller size for ease of storage. Such poles are typically shorter, 6-9-inches long and lighter too.

 

Some features to consider when selecting the best trekking poles:

  • Hand grip material. Hand grips are either made of rubber, foam, or plastic. Rubber is preferred because it is soft on the palms, has good shock absorption properties, and will offer good grip even with wet or sweaty hands. Foam, on the other hand, is absorbent and soft on the hands. Plastic is durable and tough but lacks absorption and anti-shock properties.
  • Trekking pole material. The most common materials trekking poles are made of are carbon fiber and aluminum. Carbon fiber is lighter and tough while aluminum is tougher and sturdier but a bit heavier.
  • The frequency of use and the terrain they will be used on. Outdoor ventures are characterized by different types of terrain. Some are rugged, steep, rumbled with stones and pebbles, winding, flat and even, while still others are full of obstacles. For a regular hiker, an aluminum 3- or –section pole with rubber handle will make a good option. The not-so-regular hiker can go for the lighter carbon-fiber poles which are not as tough as aluminum. The rumbled or rugged hike requires a shock absorbing set of poles while the single, non-telescoping poles will suffice for a less frequent hike on even terrains.
  • Weight. Lighter poles have always been preferred over heavier ones however if you have to choose between lightweight and durability, the latter is the better option albeit heavy.Number of sections on the pole – generally 3-section poles come with great height adjustment mechanisms and are easier to compact for storage or carrying in your rucksack. 4-section poles compact to a much smaller size than their 3-section counterparts.
  • The number of sections on the pole. Generally, 3-section poles come with great height adjustment mechanisms and are easier to compact for storage or carrying in your rucksack. 4-section poles compact to a much smaller size than their 3-section counterparts.
  • Adjustment mechanism. This is a vital consideration because different poles come with different adjustment locking mechanism and each has its pros and cons. While the twist-lock mechanism will yield strength and durability and is the most common mechanism in trekking poles, others have found that it takes a bit of effort locking and unlocking it plus with your gloves on, it’s hard to get a firm grip. Clamp lock also known as lever or quick lock is less common however they are easier to operate and a bit pricier. They are also a bulky addition to your pole.
  • Shock absorption properties. This is an important feature, particularly during impact. Poles designed with shock absorption features absorb the impact that would otherwise be translated to your joints. However, these poles are typically a little heavier.

 

10 Best Trekking Poles 2024

Below is a detailed analysis of the top ten trekking poles in the market. We hope that this review along with our buying guide will help you select the right choice for your needs.

1. BAFX Products Anti Shock Hiking / Walking / Trekking Trail Poles

No hiking experience would be complete without these pair of hiking poles. This pair of poles is lightweight, and you can easily collapse or extend its height to suit you.

Features

  • Equipped with anti-shock springs for more comfortable trekking
  • Comfortable hand grips with ergonomic design
  • Poles extend from 26.5 in (67 cm) to 53 in (135 cm)
  • Aluminum shaft material makes it light and durable
  • Covered with a one year warranty against manufacturing defects
  • Weighs 0.75 lb (340 g) each

Pros

  • It is light in weight
  • Affordable

Cons

  • The plastic handle is quite uncomfortable especially during impact and long hours of use
  • The spring designed anti-shock system is not dependable

 

When the going gets tough and you’re all sweaty, the ripped hand grips ensure a firm grip and less slippage. A wide, padded wrist wrap also offers more support and comfort. Anti-shock springs cushions you against the shock making your hiking experience more exciting and less exhausting. It comes with carbide tips which make it suitable for a wide range of hiking experiences; whether it’s mud, snow or soft ground. Additionally, it comes with some great extras like a snow disc, liquid-filled mini compass, thermometer, and a LED flashlight and for the beginner, this is a good option.


 

2. Hiker Hunger Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles

This is among the best trekking poles for hiking. It’s made of 100% Carbon Fiber, which means it’s not only extremely light but will also give you some good years of service.

Features

  • Shaft material: carbon fiber
  • Grip material: cork
  • Adjustable: yes
  • Weight per pair: 0.95 lb (431 g)
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Collapsed size: 24 in (61 cm)
  • Extended size: 54 in (137 cm)
  • Some additions in the package include 2 mud baskets, 2 snow baskets,
  • 2 rubber feet, 2 rubber tips, and a carry bag fitted with straps

Pros

  • One of the best ergonomically designed lightweight trekking poles.
  • Highly adjustable at a remarkable range of between 24 (61 cm) and 54 in (137 cm) making it quite versatile.

Cons

  • Carbon is a great lightweight yet brittle and may not be the best for the more engaging ventures.

 

The Quick Flip Lock feature enables you to extend or collapse your walking pole from 24 inches to 54 inches, or compact to fit into a carry bag, an extra included in its package. The ergonomically designed hand-grips are not only comfortable; the cork material they are made of is also a great moisture absorber. Carbon Fiber, being a natural anti shock material protects against shock while the non-slip EVA Foam Grip extension beneath the Cork Grip guarantees quick choke-ups on steep terrain.

The fact that it is an ultra-weight makes it a perfect backpacking pole suitable for just any outdoor adventures.


 

3. Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles

The Cascade Mountain Tech walking pole is made up of durable “aircraft grade” aluminum whose reliability you can count on especially when tackling challenging landscapes.

Features

  • Shaft material: aluminum
  • Grip material: cork
  • Adjustable: yes
  • Weight per pair: 1 lb (454 g)
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Collapsed size: 23 in (58 cm)
  • Extended size: 53 in (135 cm)
  • Locking mechanism: Twist Lock

Pros

  • Considering its quality, this set of poles is fairly priced
  • One of the few lightweights that stand intense use
  • Well designed extended grip comes in handy during steep ascents

Cons

  • Not the best for impact, some users experienced some vibrations during impact

 

Perhaps the most outstanding feature about this trekking pole is that it is built to stand tough use without giving in to the normal wear and tear. With aircraft grade aluminum construction, you can depend on it to stand through the most challenging rugged hikes and still remain intact.

Speaking of comfort, CMT 1 trekking poles are designed with EVA foam grips help in absorbing moisture and providing a comfortable grip when braving tough hiking challenges. Anti-shock springs and cork grips cushion you against arm fatigue, which can often be exacerbated by hard landing and is typical of any professional hiking.

These trekking sticks come with tungsten carbide and durable rubber tips known to offer excellent traction in any terrain. In addition, it comes with caps suitable for paved surfaces, baskets for snow, and rubber tips for asphаlt.


 

4. Foxelli Trekking Poles

This is top of the range trekking pole is also made of 100% Carbon Fiber material like the CMT poles. Being ultra-light makes it suitable for men, women, and children in addition to other amazing features that will certainly charm any serious hiker.

Features

  • Shaft material: carbon fiber
  • Grip material: cork foam
  • Adjustable: yes
  • Weight per pair: 0.88 lb (399 g)
  • Warranty: 3 years
  • Collapsed size: 24 in (61 cm)
  • Extended size: 55 in (140 cm)
  • Locking mechanism: Quick Lock Technology

Pros

  • The best alternative after Hiker Hunger but still a great performer for its price
  • They have a lifetime warranty which guarantees you quality

Cons

  • Some users found foam handles to be a bit uncomfortable
  • Quick-lock mechanism is firm but not user-friendly

 

The Quick Lock Technology feature makes quick height adjustments a breeze from a collapsed size of 24 in (61 cm) to the 55 in (140 cm) max extended height. This trekking stick goes a notch higher in comfort thanks to its anti slip natural cork grips, which other than absorbing sweat keeps the hands dry and cool during hikes.

Some accessories included in its package are an added convenience to any user and will enable them to tackle any terrain; whether snow, mud or rocks. If you’re hiking in ice or in the Rocky Mountains, the Tungsten Carbide tips will come in handy whereas Thermostatic rubber tips are excellent in snow and mud conditions. With a 3-year warranty, Foxelli is one of the best trekking poles that will no doubt give you a run for your bucks.


 

5. Ohuhu Retractable Anti Shock Trekking Poles

Carbon Fiber is a natural anti-shock material and an exceptional protection from the effect of impartial force typical of any hiking activity. It is quite durable too. The Ohuhu Trekking Pole is made of 7075 light aluminum making it one of the most popular and durable trekking poles for the avid mountaineer.

Features

  • Shaft material: 7075 light aluminum that’s durable and sturdy
  • Grip material: Soft EVA absorbent foam designed with wrist straps
  • Adjustable: 3-section height adjustment
  • Weight per pair: 1 lb (454 g)
  • Collapsed size: 22 in (56 cm)
  • Extended size: 56 in (135 cm)
  • Locking mechanism: Twist Locking System
  • Shock absorbing feature designed with anti-shock spring mechanism
  • Hard tungsten steel tip ideal for the roughest terrain

Pros

  • Tough enough to withstand frequent heavy use on rough terrain
  • Lightweight
  • Fairly priced

Cons

  • Not an ideal trekking pole for heavy individuals
  • Some users complained that tips come off fast

 

Quite simply, this is the trekking pole to go for if you are looking for quality and adjustability. It offers a lot of flexibility for the user; with an extended height of 22 in (56 cm) and a collapsed height of 56 in (135 cm).

Additionally, because an unnecessary load is the last thing you want during your hike, this unit is ultra light and sturdy with a combined weight of only 1 lb (454 g). The extra long EVA foam handles absorb moisture from sweaty hands to guarantee a firm grip. Unlike many other trekking poles, Ohuhu can be used comfortably in high altitudes and cold weather since it is weather resistant and can withstand temperatures ranging between (-80 °C (-112 °F) to 80 °C (176 °F).


 

6. Paria Outdoor Tri-Fold Carbon Cork Trekking Poles

The Tri-Fold Carbon Cork walking poles combine Carbon Fiber shafts and aluminum connectors into a durable unit you’d consider having for just any hiking expedition.

Features

  • Shaft material: 100% carbon fiber
  • Grip material: cork foam
  • Adjustable: yes
  • Weight per pair: 1.125 lb (510 g)
  • Collapsed size: 15 in (38 cm)
  • Extended size: 47 in (119 cm)
  • Locking mechanism: Flip-Lock
  • Warranty: 1 year

Pros

  • Syncork grip is excellent, most comfortable in any weather
  • Quite sturdy and the fact that it can be adjusted and folded is an added advantage

Cons

  • This unit is designed with a metallic collapse button which can be affected by extremely cold weather
  • Not built for heavy users

 

These trekking poles have a unique folding design that allows them to be collapsed down to less than 15 in (38 cm) or extended up to about 47 in (119 cm). Another great feature is its compact design, which enables the user to fold it down into a small backpack when not in use. The shaft material of these backpacking poles is 100% Carbon Fiber which is well known for its excellent shock repulsion properties. The handles on the other hand, incorporate the ergonomic Syncork technology which helps absorb sweat from your palms. Also appreciable, is their ultra-light weight, a feature which enables you to cover long distances without succumbing to arm fatigue. These are arguably one of the best hiking poles, perfect for hiking, walking, backpacking and snowshoeing.


 

7. Himal Outdoors Folding Collapsible Trekking Poles with EVA Foam Handles

This is an extremely durable hiking stick made of the ultra-light aircraft grade aluminum alloy known to be sturdy and hard to deform making it ideal for the professional on a tough hiking venture or the enthusiast looking for a tough challenge.

Features

  • Shaft material: aircraft grade 7075 aluminum alloy
  • Grip material: sweat absorbent utterly comfortable EVA Foam handle with wrist strap
  • Adjustable: two section adjustment at 45 in (114 cm) and 53 in (135 cm)
  • Weight per piece: 0.661 lb (300 g)
  • Collapsed size: 13.4 in (34 cm)
  • Extended size: 53 in (135 cm)
  • Locking mechanism: Twist Lock
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Tungsten steel rod tip for safety and support under the foot

Pros

  • Very comfortable handgrip
  • Sturdily built and strong enough to support heavy use as well as heavy users

Cons

  • The shorter height, 45 in (114 cm) is not an ideal for all hikers

 

It is designed with EVA foam anti-skid handles intended for moisture absorption perfect for your palms along with special adjustable wrist straps that will protect your arms from fatigue. Collapse it down to 13.4 in (34 cm) and it will easily fit into a small backpack when not in use and when hiking extended to an internationally accepted standard length of 53 in (135 cm). For safety, the Tungsten Steel Rod Tips underneath the rubber footings offers a firm grip and better balance when hiking, not to mention it’s also abrasion resistant. For ease of height adjustments, this unit is designed with a Quick Lock System to give you an adjustable length ranging between 45 in (114 cm) and 53 in (135 cm).


 

8. WildHorn Outfitters Taalo Trekking/Hiking Poles

Like the Himal collapsible, the WildHorn trekking poles are made of strong and lightweight 7075 aluminum giving them a combined weight of 21 oz, these hiking sticks are undoubtedly light yet strong enough to take on the most challenging hikes.

Features

  • Shaft material: 7075 aluminum alloy
  • Grip material: natural absorbent cork grip with air ventilated extra padded straps
  • Adjustable: between 28 in (71 cm) and 54 in (137 cm)
  • Weight per pair: 1.3 lb (590 g)
  • Collapsed size: 28 in (71 cm)
  • Extended size: 54 in (137 cm)
  • Locking mechanism: Flip Lock
    Warranty: 1 year
  • Simple click on and off Anti-Shock Technology

Pros

  • Conveniently positioned anti-shock system at the handle for ease of turning on and off
  • Quality built hand grip and the air ventilated extra padded straps are a unique and ergonomic feature

Cons

  • Rubber tips can be a bit hard to get off at the bottom however, this is more of personal opinion

 

Light at only 1.3 lb (590 g) yet quite tough, the Taalo Trekking Poles are a must have for any serious hiker. This trekking pole is adjustable between a collapsed height of 28 in (71 cm) and an extended height of 54 in (137 cm) to accommodate varying human heights. Comfort was not been overlooked either, their grips feature natural cork material known to absorb sweat to keep your hands cool, dry, and comfortable throughout the hike. As if that is not enough, they come with air ventilated extra padded straps for additional comfort along with an anti-shock technology feature that can be turned on at the click of a button.


 

9. High Trek Trekking Poles with Sweat Absorbing EVA Grips

This is a strong, ultralight pair of walking sticks made of aerospace grade 7075 aluminum to give them a combined weight of 17 oz. The adjustable wrist-wraps, as well as the large ergonomically designed EVA foam handles, are a guarantee for all-day comfort.

Features

  • Shaft material: 7075 aircraft grade aluminum alloy
  • Grip material: EVA foam handle with adjustable wrist straps
  • Adjustable: yes
  • Weight per pair: 1.06 lb (482 g)
  • Collapsed size: 25 in (63.5 cm)
  • Extended size: 53 in (135 g)
  • Locking mechanism: Flip Lock
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Tungsten tipped ends
  • Package includes removable rubber ferrules, mud/snow baskets, and carrying bags

Pros

  • Although heavy, they are tough and built to last; ideal for frequent rugged use
  • Wide range of adjustable height making it ideal for just any user

Cons

  • These are a heavy pair
  • This unit doesn’t come with an anti-shock mechanism

 

To accommodate both tall and short people the High Trek™ Trekking Poles flip lock height adjustment feature will enable you to easily adjust from collapse height of 25 in (63.5 cm) to 53 in (135 g). Furthermore, they come equipped with additional accessories such as tungsten-tipped ends, removable rubber ferrules along with mud and snow baskets to boost their functionality. This, in essence, means that rocks, snow, mud, or other obstacles in your path, should be smooth sailing. Simply switch gears to continue with your hike. These features bring to the table the kind of versatility that’s only unique to the High TrekTM Trekking poles to achieve an adventurous hike in any terrain without compromising stability or balance.


 

10. Sterling Endurance Trekking Poles

These are uniquely designed ultra-light, durable walking sticks made from the alloy of 7075 aluminum. As opposed to other steels, T6 incorporates zinc and magnesium properties, which makes it light and durable.

Features

  • Shaft material: T6 7075 aluminum alloy
  • Grip material: comfortable extended EVA foam handle
    Adjustable: yes
  • Weight per pair: 1.35 lb (612 g)
  • Collapsed size: 13.5 in (34 cm)
  • Extended size: 54 in (137 cm)
  • Locking mechanism: Flip Lock
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Addition for each pole: tungsten carbide tip, rubber tip cover to protect the tungsten, and a snow basket

Pros

  • Strong, durable, corrosion-free, and lightweight
  • Good grip with an absorbent and comfortable EVA foam handle that is extended

Cons

  • This pair of poles is not ideal for uneven terrain

 

These poles ideal for hiking can be folded down to 13.5 in (34 cm) when not in use for easy portability. With the Quick Flip Lock Technology, you can adjust the height from 44 in (112cm) to 54 in (137 cm). It is therefore unsuitable for persons shorter than 5’3″. Since the poles are ultra-light, you can comfortably cover long distances without experiencing a lot of fatigue, which makes it ideal for expeditions. EVA foam handles provide an all-weather comfortable grip while absorbing moisture from your hands. These hiking sticks are ideal for backpacking trips, snowshoeing adventures, and other adventures.


 

Conclusion

Hiking is definitely an exciting adventure and the success of it all lies in choosing the right tool for the job. Trekking poles offer you better stability and balance when tackling a challenging terrain to significantly reduce the impact of a heavy load and protect your hips, knees, and ankles. Whatever terrain you’re planning on taking, make sure you take your pick from some of the best trekking poles reviewed which can offer practicality, reliability, and value for money.

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