10 Best Collapsible Hiking Poles 2025 in the United States

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for reliable, collapsible poles. Weighing in at just 9.7 ounces each, these poles are made from high-quality 7075 aluminum, making them lightweight yet durable enough for rough terrains and snowshoeing adventures. Their maximum extended length of 54 inches allows for adjustable height, which is convenient for both adults and children. Plus, they fold down to a compact 24.5 inches, making storage and transport a breeze.

One standout feature is the lever locking mechanism, which is user-friendly and can be operated with one hand, unlike the twist locks found on many other models. This can be particularly beneficial when you’re adjusting your poles on the go. The cork handles are designed for comfort, providing a secure and moisture-wicking grip, while the padded straps ensure a good fit during use.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the poles are lightweight, they may not be as sturdy as heavier poles when it comes to extreme conditions or heavy loads. Some users might prefer poles made from carbon fiber for additional shock absorption, though these tend to be pricier. Additionally, the poles come with threaded tips for various terrains, but some may find that purchasing extra accessories is necessary for specific hiking conditions.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles offer a good balance of weight, adjustability, and comfort, making them suitable for casual hikers and families. While they may not meet the needs of extreme adventurers seeking maximum durability, they are a great option for those looking for reliable hiking support without breaking the bank.

The BLACK DIAMOND Distance Carbon Z trekking poles are a great choice for hikers and runners who want lightweight, reliable support without extra bulk. Made entirely from carbon fiber, these poles are very light (around 0.26 kg per pair) yet strong, making them easy to carry on long hikes or fast runs. They use a fixed-length design set at 110 cm, which means you won’t be able to adjust the height, so they suit users who are comfortable with one pole length. The folding mechanism is smart and quick—using a Z-pole design that lets you fold the poles into three sections for compact packing, which is handy for travel or storing in a backpack.

The grips are made from EVA foam, offering a comfortable and moisture-wicking surface that’s gentle on your hands, plus mini grips help when climbing steep terrain. The tips are carbide, providing good traction on various surfaces like rocks, dirt, and snow, and you can swap in rubber tips or snow baskets depending on your outdoor conditions.

A potential downside is the fixed-length design, which means less flexibility if you want to customize pole height for different terrains or users. Additionally, while folding is convenient, some might find the folding length still a bit long for very compact storage. These poles blend ultralight carbon construction with a quick-fold system and comfortable grips, making them ideal for trail runners and hikers who value speed and packability but don’t need adjustable length.

The TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking Poles are a solid choice for hikers, seniors, and anyone needing lightweight, supportive walking sticks. Weighing around 10.4 to 10.8 ounces per pole, they are quite light, making them easy to carry all day. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, these poles offer strength and durability without the fragility sometimes found in carbon fiber options. The ergonomic cork-textured grips wick away sweat and provide comfort, while added mud stops help maintain stability on slippery terrain. Adjustability is straightforward with a flip-lock system that allows a 20cm length change, accommodating heights from about 4'11" to 6'5", which covers most users. The locking mechanism is secure thanks to metal stoppers and reinforced joints, giving confidence in rough conditions.

One standout feature is the compact tri-fold design that folds down to 15 inches, making it easy to pack in backpacks or luggage. While the poles come with basic tips suitable for various surfaces, users may want to consider replacing or adding specialized tips depending on their hiking terrain. The Trek-Z poles effectively balance portability, comfort, and durability, making them a practical pick for casual hikers and those needing extra support without bulk.