10 Best Trekking Poles 2026 in the United States

The LEKI Ultratrail FX.One Carbon trekking poles are designed primarily for trail running and hiking, excelling in lightweight performance and portability. Made from carbon fiber, these poles weigh just about 6.7 ounces each (around 425 grams), making them very light and easy to carry on long outings. Their collapsible design allows them to break down into three compact sections with a simple push-button quick-lock system, which is great for packing and transport. The cork Trail Shark grips are comfortable and mold well to your hands, helping reduce fatigue, and the adjustable mesh straps can be removed if you prefer less bulk. While carbon is rigid and light, it does not offer as much shock absorption as poles with built-in suspension, so if you’re hiking on very rocky or uneven terrain, you might feel more impact.

The length adjustability is good, with options ranging from 105 cm up to 135 cm, accommodating different user heights and preferences. The quick push-button locking mechanism is reliable and easy to use, especially when on the move. These poles come with trail running baskets and a folding bag for storage. This makes them a solid choice for trail runners or hikers who prioritize light weight, compactness, and comfort, but if you need extra shock absorption for rough terrain or prefer heavier-duty grips, you might want to look elsewhere.

The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles are a high-quality choice for serious hikers and mountaineers. Made from 100% carbon fiber, these poles are ultra lightweight, making them easy to carry on long treks. The ergonomic grip top and 100% natural cork grips with EVA foam grip extension provide comfort and reduce hand fatigue during extended use. The FlickLock Pro system ensures easy and secure length adjustability, with forged aluminum construction for durability.

These poles also come with interchangeable tech tips that include carbide tips, adding versatility for different terrains. At a maximum extended length of 130 centimeters, they are suitable for most adult users. Weighing only 0.36 kilograms per pole, they are among the lighter options available, which is a significant advantage for long-distance backpacking and mountaineering. However, they lack built-in shock absorption, which might be a drawback for those looking for additional impact protection.

Despite their lightweight design, they offer great stability and strength due to the carbon fiber shafts. The poles are also backed by a 2-year warranty, providing peace of mind for buyers. In terms of adjustability, the poles' FlickLock Pro system is easy to use and highly reliable, though some users may find the locking mechanism slightly difficult to handle with gloves on. These trekking poles are best suited for avid hikers and mountaineers who prioritize lightweight gear and comfort over additional shock absorption features.

The Black Diamond Pursuit Aluminum Trekking Poles are a solid choice for hikers looking for adjustable and durable poles. Made from aluminum, they offer a sturdy yet fairly lightweight build at about 0.36 kg per pole, which helps reduce fatigue during long treks. With a length that extends up to 125 cm and a range starting at 100 cm, they suit a good range of heights, though the small/medium grip size might feel a bit tight for larger hands. The cork grips are comfortable and help reduce hand sweat and fatigue, and the extra grip extension made from eco-friendly foam adds more hand position options, which is useful for varied terrains.

The FlickLock+ system is easy to use and lets you make quick length adjustments without hassle, plus there's a built-in hex tool for fixing things on the go. While the poles don’t have a dedicated shock absorption feature, their 4-season tips and interchangeable carbide tech tips make them versatile for different surfaces, including snow. The straps are made from recycled materials, reflecting an eco-conscious design. These poles are particularly suitable for casual to moderate trekking, especially for those seeking a reliable, eco-friendly, and adjustable set at a reasonable price.