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10 Best Walking Poles 2025 in the United States

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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
9.8
Chosen by1,340
Material
Adjustability
Grip

Most important from
11622 reviews

Material
Lightweight yet strong, these poles provide impressive support and stability on steep, rocky trails.
Adjustability
Height adjustment is smooth and locks securely, allowing easy adaptation to different users or terrain.
Grip
Ergonomic cork handles mold comfortably to the hand and wick away sweat, enhancing long-hike comfort.
Weight
Lightweight yet strong, these poles provide impressive support and stability on steep, rocky trails.
Shock Absorption
Padded wrist straps reduce strain and keep poles securely in place without rubbing.
Tip
Variety of interchangeable tips ensure confidence and traction across mud, snow, and rocky ground.

The TREKOLOGY Trek-Z collapsible trekking poles are a solid choice for hikers, seniors, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for lightweight, adjustable support. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, these poles offer a good balance of strength and lightness, weighing just about 10.4 to 10.8 ounces depending on size. Their tri-fold design folds down to 15 inches, making them easy to pack and carry for travel or day hikes.

Adjustability is user-friendly with a flip-lock system allowing a 20cm range, accommodating a wide height range from about 4'11" to 6'5", which suits most adults and teenagers. The cork-textured grip helps keep hands dry by wicking sweat, and EVA foam on the shafts provides a comfortable hold even in muddy conditions. Mud stops are included for better traction in slippery areas.

Although these poles do not feature specialized vibration dampening, the sturdy aluminum build and secure metal joints suggest durability and reliable support on rough terrain. The tips are designed for versatility. If you want a dependable, easy-to-use pair of hiking poles that combine portability, strong materials, and solid grips without extra weight, Trek-Z poles are worth considering. They fit well for casual hikers, seniors, and anyone needing balanced support on varied terrain, especially if you value convenience and compact storage.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,340
Material
Adjustability
Grip

Most important from
11622 reviews

Material
Lightweight yet strong, these poles provide impressive support and stability on steep, rocky trails.
Adjustability
Height adjustment is smooth and locks securely, allowing easy adaptation to different users or terrain.
Grip
Ergonomic cork handles mold comfortably to the hand and wick away sweat, enhancing long-hike comfort.
Weight
Lightweight yet strong, these poles provide impressive support and stability on steep, rocky trails.
Shock Absorption
Padded wrist straps reduce strain and keep poles securely in place without rubbing.
Tip
Variety of interchangeable tips ensure confidence and traction across mud, snow, and rocky ground.
#2

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles - Lightweight, Collapsible Hiking Poles for Backpacking Gear - Pair of 2 Walking Sticks for Hiking, 7075 Aluminum with Cork Grip Blue Lake

Rating
9.6
Adjustability
Weight

Most important from
62631 reviews

Adjustability
Adjustable to any height, these poles are incredibly sturdy and easy to store, making them versatile for various environments.
Weight
Lightweight and reliable, these poles are perfect for mixed terrain and significantly reduce joint pain during hikes.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for hikers looking for reliable walking poles. Made from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, these poles are lightweight yet durable, making them suitable for various terrains, from rugged trails to snowy paths. Weighing in at just 1.2 pounds for the pair, they are easier to carry on long hikes. A standout feature is their adjustability; the poles can extend from 24.5 inches to a maximum height of 54 inches, which is perfect for users of different heights and can even accommodate children.

The design includes padded straps and moisture-wicking cork grips, ensuring a comfortable hold during long treks, which is a significant advantage over rubber or plastic grips that can become slippery. The lever lock mechanism is another plus, as it allows for quick adjustments with one hand, simplifying the setup process compared to traditional two-handed twist locks.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles cater well to casual hikers and those venturing into more challenging environments, providing comfort and reliability without excessive weight. They make a great addition to backpacking gear, particularly for those who value ease of use and portability.

Rating
9.6
Adjustability
Weight

Most important from
62631 reviews

Adjustability
Adjustable to any height, these poles are incredibly sturdy and easy to store, making them versatile for various environments.
Weight
Lightweight and reliable, these poles are perfect for mixed terrain and significantly reduce joint pain during hikes.
#3

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles - Lightweight, Collapsible Hiking Poles for Snowshoe & Backpacking Gear - Pair of 2 Walking Sticks for Hiking, 7075 Aluminum with Cork Grip

Rating
9.4
Adjustability
Grip
Tip

Most important from
62631 reviews

Adjustability
Lightweight and easy to adjust, the locking mechanisms are reliable and sturdy, making them perfect for various terrains.
Grip
The cork grips offer great comfort and the padded straps help distribute weight evenly, reducing strain during long hikes.
Tip
The poles' versatility is impressive with different tips for different terrains, ensuring they perform well whether on asphalt, gravel, or dirt paths.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable walking poles for hiking or snowshoeing. Made from high-quality 7075 aluminum, these poles are lightweight yet durable, ensuring they can withstand rugged terrains. At just 9.7 ounces per pole, they are lighter than many other aluminum options, making them easier to carry on long hikes.

The poles are adjustable from 24.5 inches to 54 inches, which means they can be used by people of different heights, including kids, and the lever lock mechanism makes it simple to adjust the height with one hand. The grip is made from cork, which is comfortable and molds to the shape of your hand over time, providing a secure hold. The padded straps add to the comfort by helping to distribute weight more evenly.

The tips are made from tungsten carbide, which is durable and works well in a variety of conditions, including snow and mud. While the poles offer good shock absorption, they might not be as effective as those specifically designed with shock-absorbing technology. The cork grips are excellent for moisture-wicking, but some might prefer foam or rubber grips based on personal preference. TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are well-suited for most hikers, offering a blend of durability, comfort, and ease of use.

Rating
9.4
Adjustability
Grip
Tip

Most important from
62631 reviews

Adjustability
Lightweight and easy to adjust, the locking mechanisms are reliable and sturdy, making them perfect for various terrains.
Grip
The cork grips offer great comfort and the padded straps help distribute weight evenly, reducing strain during long hikes.
Tip
The poles' versatility is impressive with different tips for different terrains, ensuring they perform well whether on asphalt, gravel, or dirt paths.

Buying Guide for the Best Walking Poles

Walking poles, also known as trekking poles or hiking sticks, are essential tools for hikers and walkers. They provide stability, reduce strain on your legs, and can help you maintain balance on uneven terrain. When choosing the right walking poles, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure they meet your needs and enhance your walking experience.
MaterialThe material of the walking poles affects their weight, durability, and cost. Common materials include aluminum and carbon fiber. Aluminum poles are generally more affordable and durable, making them a good choice for rugged terrain. Carbon fiber poles are lighter and absorb shock better, which can be beneficial for long hikes or if you have joint issues. Choose aluminum if you need durability and are on rough trails, and carbon fiber if you prioritize lightness and comfort.
AdjustabilityAdjustable walking poles can be lengthened or shortened to suit different terrains and user heights. This feature is important for comfort and efficiency. Poles with a telescoping or folding design are common. Telescoping poles are easy to adjust and are great for varying terrain, while folding poles are compact and convenient for travel. If you hike on varied terrain or share poles with others, adjustable poles are a good choice. Fixed-length poles are lighter and simpler but less versatile.
GripThe grip of the walking poles affects comfort and control. Grips are typically made from cork, foam, or rubber. Cork grips conform to your hand over time and are good for moisture management, making them ideal for long hikes. Foam grips are soft and absorb sweat, providing comfort in hot conditions. Rubber grips are durable and provide a firm hold, suitable for cold weather. Choose cork for long hikes, foam for hot weather, and rubber for cold conditions.
WeightThe weight of the walking poles can impact your endurance and comfort. Lighter poles are easier to carry and reduce fatigue, which is beneficial for long-distance hiking. Heavier poles, while more durable, can be tiring over extended use. If you plan on long hikes or have joint issues, opt for lighter poles. For shorter, more rugged hikes, heavier poles may be more suitable due to their durability.
Shock AbsorptionSome walking poles come with shock absorption features, such as internal springs, to reduce impact on your joints. This is particularly important if you have knee or joint problems or if you hike on hard surfaces. Poles with shock absorption can be slightly heavier and more expensive. If you have joint issues or hike on hard terrain, consider poles with shock absorption. If you prefer a lighter pole and hike on softer ground, this feature may be less necessary.
TipThe tip of the walking poles affects their grip on different surfaces. Carbide or steel tips provide good traction on trails and rocky terrain. Rubber tips are quieter and better for paved surfaces. Some poles come with interchangeable tips for versatility. If you hike on varied terrain, look for poles with interchangeable tips. For primarily trail hiking, carbide or steel tips are ideal. For urban walking, rubber tips are preferable.

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