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10 Best Trekking Poles 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,229
Material
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
11949 reviews

Material
The poles are sturdy and perform well in various conditions, from the slippery slopes of Mt. Etna to the cold terrains of Iceland.
Adjustability
These trekking poles are easy to unfold, adjust, and they don't slip or collapse even under weight, providing a sense of security on slippery slopes.
Grip Material
While the grips are EVA foam made to look like cork, they still offer a comfortable hold, though some may prefer genuine cork.
Weight
Lightweight and compact, they fit easily into luggage without taking up much space, making them perfect for travel.

The TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking & Trekking Poles are designed to offer balance and support for a wide range of users, including seniors, women, and men. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, these poles are lightweight yet strong, ensuring durability for various terrains. The weight is quite manageable, with the poles weighing approximately 294g (10.4oz) for the shorter size and 306g (10.8oz) for the taller size, making them suitable for all-day hikes or backpacking trips.

One of the standout features is the cork-texture grip which effectively wicks away sweat, providing a comfortable hold even in muddy or wet conditions. Additionally, the EVA foam shafts enhance grip in extreme terrains, further adding to the poles' versatility. The adjustable flip-lock system allows for easy customization of the pole length, catering to users of different heights with a range of 20cm adjustment. This adjustability, coupled with the secure metal stopper, ensures that the poles can be tailored to the user's preference and needs.

The compact design, collapsing down to just 15 inches (38 cm), makes these poles highly portable, fitting conveniently into backpacks or luggage. However, one potential drawback is the lack of dedicated shock absorption features, which might be a consideration for those with joint issues or those looking for extra cushioning during hikes. Additionally, while the locking mechanism is reliable, some users might find it less intuitive compared to other systems. In summary, the TREKOLOGY Trek-Z poles are a solid choice for hikers seeking lightweight, durable, and easily adjustable trekking poles, especially beneficial for those who prioritize portability and comfort.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,229
Material
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
11949 reviews

Material
The poles are sturdy and perform well in various conditions, from the slippery slopes of Mt. Etna to the cold terrains of Iceland.
Adjustability
These trekking poles are easy to unfold, adjust, and they don't slip or collapse even under weight, providing a sense of security on slippery slopes.
Grip Material
While the grips are EVA foam made to look like cork, they still offer a comfortable hold, though some may prefer genuine cork.
Weight
Lightweight and compact, they fit easily into luggage without taking up much space, making them perfect for travel.
#2

Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles Blue Cork

Rating
9.1
Material
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
25280 reviews

Material
Durable aircraft-grade aluminum ensures the poles remain stiff and strong in various weather conditions.
Adjustability
Lightweight construction combined with a quick lock system makes adjusting the poles effortless and reliable.
Grip Material
The cork grips and extended foam handles reduce vibration and increase comfort during long hikes or rehabilitation walks.
Shock Absorption
The cork grips and extended foam handles reduce vibration and increase comfort during long hikes or rehabilitation walks.
Locking Mechanism
Quick locks hold securely without the hassle of twist-lock mechanisms, streamlining assembly and height adjustments.

The Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles are a solid choice for hikers looking for durable and comfortable poles. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, they are both lightweight and strong, able to handle extreme temperatures without issue. These poles adjust easily from 45 to 54 inches using a quick lock system, which is handy for changing terrain or users of different heights. The cork grips are a standout feature, as they provide a natural feel that reduces vibration and helps keep your hands comfortable on long hikes. Plus, the extended EVA foam grip offers extra space for hand placement, especially useful on steep climbs.

The poles come with various tips and baskets, including snow and mud options, making them versatile for year-round use and different trail conditions. They fold down to just under 17 inches for easy storage in the included carry bag, which is great for travel. The maximum length is 54 inches, so taller hikers might find this limiting. Also, while the quick lock system is convenient, some users may prefer a twist-lock style for extra security.

These poles are well suited for casual to serious hikers seeking comfort, durability, and adaptability without extra bulk.

Rating
9.1
Material
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
25280 reviews

Material
Durable aircraft-grade aluminum ensures the poles remain stiff and strong in various weather conditions.
Adjustability
Lightweight construction combined with a quick lock system makes adjusting the poles effortless and reliable.
Grip Material
The cork grips and extended foam handles reduce vibration and increase comfort during long hikes or rehabilitation walks.
Shock Absorption
The cork grips and extended foam handles reduce vibration and increase comfort during long hikes or rehabilitation walks.
Locking Mechanism
Quick locks hold securely without the hassle of twist-lock mechanisms, streamlining assembly and height adjustments.
#3

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles – Lightweight 7075 Aluminum Hiking Poles for Women, Men & Seniors – Collapsible Walking Sticks for Travel, Trails & Balance

Rating
8.5
Adjustability
Grip Material
Weight

Most important from
62933 reviews

Adjustability
Adjusting the poles is straightforward and intuitive, allowing quick customization even on the move.
Grip Material
The lightweight design combined with comfortable cork handles makes long hikes feel effortless and enjoyable.
Weight
The lightweight design combined with comfortable cork handles makes long hikes feel effortless and enjoyable.

TrailBuddy trekking poles are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable support on hikes, especially on uneven or rugged trails. Made from lightweight yet strong 7075 aluminum, these poles strike a good balance between durability and ease of carrying, weighing about 1.2 pounds for the pair. They collapse down to around 24.5 inches, making them very travel-friendly and easy to store in backpacks or carry-ons. The height adjusts easily from 24.5 inches to 54 inches using a user-friendly lever lock system, which is simpler to handle than twist locks, even with one hand. This makes them great for people of all ages, including seniors and kids.

The cork handles feel comfortable and wick away moisture, helping you maintain a secure grip during long walks. While the poles lack specific shock absorption features, the tungsten carbide tips provide good traction on various surfaces like mud or snow, further enhancing stability. These poles meet the needs of casual hikers, Nordic walkers, and those needing extra balance, though those wanting advanced shock absorption or ultralight carbon fiber options might consider other models. Color options add a fun touch to suit your style.

TrailBuddy poles deliver strong performance, ease of use, and versatility at a reasonable weight and price point.

Rating
8.5
Adjustability
Grip Material
Weight

Most important from
62933 reviews

Adjustability
Adjusting the poles is straightforward and intuitive, allowing quick customization even on the move.
Grip Material
The lightweight design combined with comfortable cork handles makes long hikes feel effortless and enjoyable.
Weight
The lightweight design combined with comfortable cork handles makes long hikes feel effortless and enjoyable.

Buying Guide for the Best Trekking Poles

Choosing the right trekking poles can significantly enhance your hiking experience by providing stability, reducing strain on your joints, and improving your overall balance. When selecting trekking poles, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure they meet your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key specs to consider and how to navigate them.
MaterialThe material of trekking poles affects their weight, durability, and cost. Common materials include aluminum and carbon fiber. Aluminum poles are generally more durable and less expensive, but they are heavier. Carbon fiber poles are lighter and absorb shock better, but they can be more expensive and less durable. If you prioritize durability and cost, aluminum might be the better choice. If you prefer lightweight poles for long hikes and are willing to invest more, carbon fiber could be ideal.
AdjustabilityAdjustable trekking poles allow you to change the length to suit different terrains and personal preferences. This is important for comfort and efficiency, as the correct length can reduce strain on your body. Poles can be adjustable through telescoping or folding mechanisms. Telescoping poles are generally more robust and easier to adjust, while folding poles are more compact and lighter. If you often hike on varied terrain, adjustable poles are beneficial. For those who prioritize compactness and weight, folding poles might be preferable.
Grip MaterialThe grip material of trekking poles affects comfort and moisture management. Common grip materials include cork, foam, and rubber. Cork grips are comfortable, absorb sweat, and conform to your hand over time. Foam grips are soft and absorb moisture well, making them comfortable for long hikes. Rubber grips are durable and provide a firm hold, but they can become slippery when wet. If you hike in hot conditions, cork or foam grips are ideal. For wet or cold conditions, rubber grips might be more suitable.
WeightThe weight of trekking poles can impact your energy levels and comfort during long hikes. Lighter poles are easier to carry and can reduce fatigue, but they may be less durable. Heavier poles are generally more robust and can provide better stability. If you plan on long-distance hiking or backpacking, lightweight poles are advantageous. For shorter hikes or if you need more stability, heavier poles might be a better option.
Shock AbsorptionSome trekking poles come with shock absorption features, which can reduce the impact on your joints, especially during downhill sections. This is particularly important for hikers with joint issues or those carrying heavy loads. Shock-absorbing poles typically have a spring mechanism in the shaft. If you have knee or joint problems, or if you often hike on rough terrain, poles with shock absorption can be beneficial. For those who prefer a more rigid feel or hike on smoother trails, this feature might not be necessary.
Locking MechanismThe locking mechanism of adjustable trekking poles ensures they stay at the desired length. Common types include lever locks and twist locks. Lever locks are generally easier to adjust and more reliable, while twist locks can be lighter but may require more effort to secure. If you need to adjust your poles frequently or want a quick and secure lock, lever locks are a good choice. For those who prioritize weight and are comfortable with a bit more effort in adjusting, twist locks might be suitable.

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