3 Best Rei Trekking Poles 2025 in the United States

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are designed to withstand rugged terrain and diverse weather conditions, making them a reliable choice for hikers and backpackers. They are made from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, which is both strong and lightweight. This material choice offers a great balance between durability and weight, making these poles easier to carry during long hikes without compromising on strength.

The poles are adjustable, allowing you to set them to your desired height quickly and effortlessly with the user-friendly lever locks. This makes them suitable not only for adults but also for children, as they can be adjusted from 54 inches down to just 24.5 inches when collapsed. The cork handles provide a secure and comfortable grip, as they mold to the shape of your hand and wick away moisture, which can be particularly useful during prolonged use or humid conditions.

The padded straps add an extra layer of comfort and security, ensuring that the poles remain securely in your hands. Packability is another strong point, as these poles can be collapsed to a compact size of 24.5 inches, making them easy to stow away in your backpack when not in use. Despite these strengths, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Some users might prefer carbon fiber poles for their lighter weight, even though aluminum offers better durability. Additionally, while the cork handles are comfortable, they might require more maintenance compared to synthetic grips to maintain their moisture-wicking properties.

In summary, the TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for hikers who need durable, adjustable, and comfortable trekking poles that pack down easily for convenience.

The LEKI Legacy Lite AS trekking poles are a solid choice for those who enjoy trekking and hiking. Made from durable aluminum, these poles offer strength without being too heavy, weighing only 9.2oz each. They are adjustable from 100 to 135 cm using the Speed Lock Plus system, making them versatile for various trail conditions and user heights.

The Dynamic Suspension System integrated into these poles significantly reduces impact, which is a blessing for long hikes on rough terrain as it lessens the strain on joints by up to 40%. The cork Cor-tec grips are designed to conform to your hand over time, providing a comfortable and secure hold. These grips are particularly useful for absorbing sweat and reducing hand fatigue.

The poles are also relatively compact, with a pack size of 26.4 inches, making them easy to carry and store when not in use. While their aluminum construction ensures durability, it may not be as lightweight as some carbon fiber alternatives. If comfort, durability, and shock absorption are your top priorities, these poles are worth considering.

The Black Diamond Trail Explorer 3 Trekking Poles, Burnt Olive, are a solid option for trekkers looking for durable and adjustable poles. With a three-section aluminum shaft, these poles are robust and provide good stability. The dual FlickLock adjustability allows for easy and secure length adjustments up to 54 inches, making them versatile for various terrains and user heights.

They come with low-profile trekking baskets and a comfortable webbing strap, which adds to their functionality and user comfort. However, the grip material is plastic, which might not offer the best comfort or grip, especially during long hikes or in wet conditions. Weighing 540 grams per pair, they are relatively lightweight, but some might find them heavier compared to other high-end models. The packability is decent with a folded size of 23 inches, making them convenient to carry around.

While they do not mention specific shock absorption features, the aluminum build should provide some basic impact resistance. These poles are a good choice for those who want reliable and adjustable trekking poles without breaking the bank. If you prioritize comfort in grip or need ultra-lightweight poles, you might want to explore other options.