10 Best Hiking Poles 2026 in the United States

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for hikers of all levels, including seniors and kids, thanks to their adjustable length from 24.5 to 54 inches. Made from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, these poles are both lightweight and durable, weighing just under 10 ounces each, which helps reduce fatigue on long walks. Their cork handles are moisture-wicking and comfortable, molding to your hand for a secure grip. The poles use lever locks, which are simple to operate with one hand and more user-friendly than twist locks, especially if you’re adjusting them on the move.

They fold down compactly (to about 24.5 inches), making them easy to pack for travel or backpacking. While they offer dependable support on uneven terrain, they lack specific shock absorption technology, which might be missed by those needing extra joint protection. The rubber tips and threaded foot covers provide good stability on various surfaces like mud or snow, but if you want advanced cushioning, these poles might fall short.

Their combination of lightweight strength, easy adjustability, and comfortable grips makes the TrailBuddy poles a practical and versatile option for casual hikers, travelers, and families looking to stay active outdoors.

The Hiker Hunger Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are designed with both serious hikers and casual walkers in mind. Made from 3k 100% carbon fiber, these poles are incredibly lightweight at just 7.6 ounces each, making them easy to carry and less tiring to use over long distances. The carbon fiber construction also adds durability and strength, outlasting many aluminum options and offering better performance in terms of weight and energy efficiency.

The poles feature ergonomic cork grips that conform to the shape of your hand, providing a comfortable hold that wicks away moisture. Additionally, there’s an EVA foam grip extension for more challenging climbs and neoprene padded hand straps to prevent chafing. The flip lock lever technology ensures these poles are easily adjustable, ranging from 24 inches to 55 inches in length, and securely locked in place. This makes them suitable for users of various heights, including children. The use of metal locks instead of plastic ones adds to the durability and security.

Included with the poles are snow baskets, rubber feet, rubber tips, and mud baskets, making them versatile for different terrains and weather conditions. However, they do lack shock absorption technology, which might be a drawback for those who need extra joint protection on rough trails. Customer reviews are generally very positive, with a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from nearly 2,900 ratings. The product also comes with a 3-year warranty, indicating confidence in its durability. These trekking poles are a good choice for anyone from beginner walkers to experienced hikers, thanks to their lightweight build, sturdy construction, and comfortable, adjustable design.

The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z poles are designed for hikers and trail runners who want ultra-lightweight and durable gear. Made from carbon fiber, these poles are very light (about 140 grams each), which helps reduce arm fatigue on long hikes or runs. They come in a fixed length of 125 cm, so they are not adjustable, which could be a drawback if you want a pole that adapts to varied terrain or different users. The grips are made from EVA foam, a soft material that’s comfortable and wicks away sweat, plus they have breathable straps made from recycled materials, adding some eco-friendly value.

These poles use a push-button lock mechanism combined with a Z-pole folding design, making them easy to pack and quick to deploy, ideal for those who prioritize convenience and fast setup. However, they don’t have built-in shock absorption, which means your arms might feel more impact on rougher trails compared to poles with that feature. Their fixed length and lack of shock absorption make them more suitable for experienced hikers or runners who prefer simplicity and lightness over full adjustability and cushioning.

The included 2-year warranty adds confidence in their quality. If you want lightweight, compact poles mainly for fast hiking or running on fairly even ground, these poles are a strong choice. But if you need adjustable length or shock absorption for rougher hikes, you might want to consider other models.