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 Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles are made from aircraft-grade aluminum, making them strong yet lightweight at just about 10.4 ounces per pole. This weight is helpful for long hikes where heavy poles can cause fatigue. They adjust from 26 to 54 inches with a quick-lock mechanism that is easy to use and reliable for keeping the poles at your desired height, which is great for varying terrain like uphill or downhill paths. The grips are made from EVA foam, offering a comfortable and non-slip hold, along with adjustable wrist straps for extra support. These poles come with useful accessories like snow baskets, rubber tips, and mud baskets, making them versatile for different weather and ground conditions.

While the aluminum construction is sturdy, it may not be as light as carbon fiber models, which are typically preferred by serious trekkers looking for ultra-light gear. Additionally, there is no advanced shock absorption feature, so these poles might transmit more impact to your wrists on rough trails compared to models with built-in shock absorbers. The poles include a one-year limited warranty and options for replacement parts, demonstrating a commitment to customer support. These trekking poles represent a solid choice for hikers of all levels seeking reliable, adjustable, and comfortable poles without a heavy price tag.

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.