10 Best Folding Hiking Sticks 2025 in the United States

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for anyone in need of reliable hiking gear. Made from tough aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, these poles are lightweight yet durable, weighing only 1.21 pounds for the pair. This is lighter than many other hiking poles, making them easier to carry on long treks. The poles are highly adjustable, with a maximum height of 54 inches and a minimum collapsed length of 24.5 inches, making them versatile enough for adults and kids alike.

The lever locks are user-friendly, allowing adjustments with just one hand, which is more convenient than the traditional twist locks found on other models. The cork grip is another notable feature, providing a comfortable hold that molds to your hand and wicks away moisture to keep your hands dry. The padded straps add to the comfort by securing the poles to your hands. However, the product does not specifically mention shock absorption, which could be a drawback for those who need extra support on rugged terrain.

The tip material is rubber, which is effective but may wear down quicker than carbide tips. Folding down to 24.5 inches, these poles are reasonably compact, though not the smallest available. The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles offer lightweight, adjustable, and comfortable poles with only minor drawbacks in shock absorption and tip durability.

The Hiker Hunger Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are a solid choice for anyone looking for durable and lightweight hiking sticks. Made entirely from carbon fiber, these poles are incredibly light at only 7.6 oz each, which makes them an excellent option for long-distance hiking where minimizing weight is crucial. The cork grips are ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in your hands and wick away moisture, enhancing your grip during intense hikes. Additionally, the EVA foam grip extension can be useful for steep ascents, providing extra support and comfort.

The neoprene padded hand straps are a thoughtful feature to prevent chafing, contributing to the comfort of use. The poles are adjustable from 24” to 55”, making them suitable for users of various heights, including women, men, and kids. The flip lock lever technology ensures easy and secure adjustability, offering better stability compared to twist locks or foldable poles. The metal locks used in these poles are robust, unlike plastic locks which can wear out over time.

One potential downside is the lack of integrated shock absorption, which could be an issue for some users on very rough terrain. The poles come with various tip materials and accessories, including mud baskets and rubber tips, providing versatility for different hiking conditions. The included carry bag adds convenience for travel and storage. Backed by a 3-year warranty and supported by a dedicated team, these poles are trusted by numerous customers since 2015, which speaks to their reliability and customer satisfaction.

The TREKOLOGY Trekking Poles are a solid choice for anyone looking for lightweight and compact hiking sticks. Made from durable aluminum, they provide the strength needed for rough terrain, and their weight of about 11.5 ounces per pole keeps them easy to carry all day. These poles fold down to just 15 inches, making them very convenient to pack and travel with. The cork handles offer a comfortable grip that helps keep your hands dry by wicking away sweat.

Adjustability is straightforward thanks to the metal flip locks, allowing users between about 5'2" and 6'5" to customize the length from 110 to 130 cm, which covers most adults well. These poles are particularly suited for casual hikers, seniors, and anyone wanting a reliable, foldable stick that doesn't add much bulk or weight.

If you need advanced shock absorption or ultra-light carbon fiber material, you might want to explore other options. For everyday hiking and walking support, the TREKOLOGY poles provide good value and practical features.