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10 Best Lightweight Trekking Poles 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles - Lightweight, Collapsible Hiking Poles for Snowshoe & Backpacking Gear - Pair of 2 Walking Sticks for Hiking, 7075 Aluminum with Cork Grip

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,317
Weight
Adjustability
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
61991 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and sturdy, these poles have never failed or slipped, even under significant weight.
Adjustability
The adjustable length is highly praised for accommodating various heights and is easy to use.
Locking Mechanism
The lever locking mechanism is robust and user-friendly, never collapsing unexpectedly.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for those in need of lightweight and durable trekking poles. Weighing 9.7 ounces each, they are crafted from 7075 aluminum, which offers a balance of strength and lightness. This makes them suitable for both rugged terrains and snowshoeing. The adjustable length, extending from 24.5 inches to 54 inches, allows for quick customization, making them versatile for both adults and children.

The cork grips are a standout feature, providing comfort and a secure hold that molds to the shape of your hand, especially useful during long treks. Additionally, the lever locking mechanism is user-friendly, requiring only one hand to operate, which is more convenient than traditional twist locks.

One potential drawback is the lack of explicit shock absorption features, which might be a consideration for those trekking on very hard surfaces or needing additional joint protection. In summary, these poles are robust, easy to adjust, and offer secure and comfortable grips, making them an excellent partner for most hiking and trekking activities.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,317
Weight
Adjustability
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
61991 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and sturdy, these poles have never failed or slipped, even under significant weight.
Adjustability
The adjustable length is highly praised for accommodating various heights and is easy to use.
Locking Mechanism
The lever locking mechanism is robust and user-friendly, never collapsing unexpectedly.
#2

TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking & Trekking Poles - Balance Support for Seniors, Women, and Men, 2pc Per Set

Rating
10.0
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
11404 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and compact, these poles fit easily into luggage and adjust quickly to your height, feeling almost custom-made.
Adjustability
The poles are easy to unfold, adjust, and they don't slip or collapse under weight, making them reliable on different terrains.
Grip Material
The grips are made of EVA foam, not real cork, which might be a disappointment for those expecting cork grips.

The TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking & Trekking Poles are designed to be lightweight and highly portable, making them suitable for various trekking adventures. These poles weigh just 294g (10.4oz) for the shorter size and 306g (10.8oz) for the longer size, which is ideal for minimizing fatigue during long hikes. The use of aircraft-grade aluminum ensures durability and strength while keeping the poles light. This material choice is excellent for handling rough terrains and supporting heavier weights, although it may not offer the same level of vibration dampening as carbon fiber poles. The poles can collapse down to a compact 15 inches (38 cm), making them convenient to store and transport in backpacks or luggage.

The adjustable flip-lock system allows for easy customization, catering to different heights with a range of 100-120cm and 115-135cm, respectively. The cork texture grip helps absorb sweat, ensuring a firm hold even in wet conditions. Added EVA foam on the shafts further enhances grip in various terrain environments. However, the product does not explicitly mention any shock absorption features, which could be a drawback for users seeking extra comfort on uneven trails.

The locking mechanism, featuring flip-lock and metal stoppers, provides security and stability. These trekking poles are particularly beneficial for seniors, women, and teenagers due to their lightweight and easy adjustability, supporting a comfortable trekking experience. While the poles offer numerous advantages like compact design, strong build, and adjustable height, the lack of explicit shock absorption might be a downside for those prioritizing this feature.

Rating
10.0
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
11404 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and compact, these poles fit easily into luggage and adjust quickly to your height, feeling almost custom-made.
Adjustability
The poles are easy to unfold, adjust, and they don't slip or collapse under weight, making them reliable on different terrains.
Grip Material
The grips are made of EVA foam, not real cork, which might be a disappointment for those expecting cork grips.
#3

Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Trekking Poles with Extended Down Grip Plus Tip Kit, 2 Count (Pack of 1)

Rating
9.8
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
24594 reviews

Weight
These poles are stable, strong, and lightweight, making them perfect for long, strenuous, steep hikes.
Adjustability
Easy height adjustment and multiple types of feet for different terrains add to the poles' versatility.
Grip Material
The extended down grip offers extra comfort and versatility on challenging terrains.
Locking Mechanism
Despite a minor drawback with the locking mechanism occasionally shifting under extreme pressure, the overall performance and practicality make these poles a worthy investment.
Shock Absorption
Using the poles for added stability results in far less impact on joints, which is crucial for hikers with joint issues.

The Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Trekking Poles are a solid choice for those who enjoy hiking and trekking. One of their strengths is their weight – at just 10 ounces per pole, they are light enough to carry for extended periods without causing fatigue. The use of aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum ensures they are durable and can withstand various conditions, which is beneficial for serious trekkers.

Another advantage is their adjustability; they can be adjusted from 26 to 54 inches easily with the quick lock mechanism, making it convenient to modify on the go without interruption. The cork grip is a standout feature, providing a natural feel and reducing vibrations during use. The extended EVA down grip is beneficial for steep inclines, as it offers more space for hand placement.

Additionally, the tungsten carbide tips and included accessories like snow and mud baskets and rubber tip covers make these poles versatile for different terrains and conditions. The included travel bag adds to the portability, making these trekking poles a good companion for various types of hikes. These poles are well-suited for hikers who prioritize durability, adjustability, and comfortable grips.

Rating
9.8
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
24594 reviews

Weight
These poles are stable, strong, and lightweight, making them perfect for long, strenuous, steep hikes.
Adjustability
Easy height adjustment and multiple types of feet for different terrains add to the poles' versatility.
Grip Material
The extended down grip offers extra comfort and versatility on challenging terrains.
Locking Mechanism
Despite a minor drawback with the locking mechanism occasionally shifting under extreme pressure, the overall performance and practicality make these poles a worthy investment.
Shock Absorption
Using the poles for added stability results in far less impact on joints, which is crucial for hikers with joint issues.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Trekking Poles

Choosing the right lightweight trekking poles can significantly enhance your hiking experience by providing stability, reducing strain on your joints, and improving your balance on uneven terrain. When selecting trekking poles, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure they meet your needs and preferences. Here are the main factors to consider and how to navigate them.
WeightThe weight of trekking poles is crucial because it affects how easy they are to carry and use over long distances. Lightweight poles, typically made from materials like carbon fiber or aluminum, are easier to handle and reduce fatigue. For casual hikers or those on shorter treks, slightly heavier poles may be acceptable, but for long-distance or high-intensity hikes, the lighter the poles, the better.
MaterialTrekking poles are commonly made from aluminum or carbon fiber. Aluminum poles are durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making them a good choice for rugged terrain. Carbon fiber poles are lighter and absorb vibrations better, which can be beneficial for long hikes. However, they can be more expensive and less durable than aluminum. Choose aluminum if you prioritize durability and carbon fiber if you prioritize weight and comfort.
AdjustabilityAdjustable trekking poles allow you to change their length to suit different terrains and your height. This feature is important for comfort and efficiency, as you can shorten the poles for uphill climbs and lengthen them for descents. Non-adjustable poles are lighter and simpler but lack versatility. If you hike on varied terrain, adjustable poles are the better choice.
Grip MaterialThe grip material affects comfort and sweat management. Common materials include cork, foam, and rubber. Cork grips conform to your hand shape over time and manage moisture well, making them comfortable for long hikes. Foam grips are soft and absorb sweat, providing comfort in hot conditions. Rubber grips are durable and provide a firm hold, but can become slippery when wet. Choose cork or foam for comfort and moisture management, and rubber for durability.
Locking MechanismThe locking mechanism secures the poles at your desired length. There are twist locks, lever locks, and push-button locks. Twist locks are lightweight but can be less reliable over time. Lever locks are easy to adjust and very secure, making them a popular choice. Push-button locks are simple and quick to use but offer less adjustability. For reliability and ease of use, lever locks are generally the best option.
Shock AbsorptionSome trekking poles come with built-in shock absorbers to reduce impact on your joints. This feature is particularly useful for those with joint issues or for long hikes on hard surfaces. However, shock-absorbing poles can be slightly heavier and more expensive. If you have joint concerns or plan to hike on hard terrain, consider poles with shock absorption. Otherwise, standard poles without this feature may suffice.

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