10 Best Trekking Poles 2026 in the United States

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 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 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.