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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 by1,139
Material
Adjustability
Grip

Most important from
11895 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 by1,139
Material
Adjustability
Grip

Most important from
11895 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
62574 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
62574 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

Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Trekking Poles with Extended Down Grip Plus Tip Kit, 2 Count (Pack of 1)

Rating
9.3
Adjustability
Grip
Weight

Most important from
24965 reviews

Adjustability
These poles are lightweight, durable, and easy to adjust, with comfortable grips that make them perfect for long hikes.
Grip
These poles are lightweight, durable, and easy to adjust, with comfortable grips that make them perfect for long hikes.
Weight
These poles are lightweight, durable, and easy to adjust, with comfortable grips that make them perfect for long hikes.
Shock Absorption
A lucky investment that proved its worth on steep descents and challenging terrains, reducing joint impact significantly.
Tip
Versatility shines through with multiple types of feet for different terrains, making them a reliable companion for adventures like the Grand Canyon.

The Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Trekking Poles are a solid choice for anyone seeking reliable walking poles for various outdoor activities. Weighing just 10 ounces each, these poles are crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, making them both strong and durable, suitable for rugged conditions. The quick lock mechanism allows for easy adjustability, enabling users to extend the poles from 26 to 54 inches, which is great for accommodating different heights or terrain. This flexibility is a significant plus for hikers who encounter varying landscapes.

One of the standout features is the cork grip, designed for comfort and to absorb shock, which helps reduce vibrations from rough terrain. The extended EVA down grip is particularly useful for steep inclines, providing extra hand placement options. With tungsten carbide tips and included rubber accessories for snow and mud, these poles are versatile and ready for year-round use.

The portability of the poles is another advantage, as they can be easily packed away in the included travel bag. These trekking poles are a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts, including day hikers and those tackling more extended hikes, providing a well-rounded option for anyone looking to enhance their walking experience in various terrains.

Rating
9.3
Adjustability
Grip
Weight

Most important from
24965 reviews

Adjustability
These poles are lightweight, durable, and easy to adjust, with comfortable grips that make them perfect for long hikes.
Grip
These poles are lightweight, durable, and easy to adjust, with comfortable grips that make them perfect for long hikes.
Weight
These poles are lightweight, durable, and easy to adjust, with comfortable grips that make them perfect for long hikes.
Shock Absorption
A lucky investment that proved its worth on steep descents and challenging terrains, reducing joint impact significantly.
Tip
Versatility shines through with multiple types of feet for different terrains, making them a reliable companion for adventures like the Grand Canyon.

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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