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 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.