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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
10.0
Chosen by1,118
Material
Adjustability
Grip

Most important from
11781 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
10.0
Chosen by1,118
Material
Adjustability
Grip

Most important from
11781 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 7075 Aluminum Hiking Poles for Women, Men & Seniors – Collapsible Walking Sticks for Travel, Trails & Balance

Rating
9.7
Material
Adjustability
Grip

Most important from
62760 reviews

Material
These poles combine lightweight design with exceptional durability, lasting through hundreds of hours of use.
Adjustability
Adjusting the poles is effortless thanks to simple lever locks that can be operated with one hand.
Grip
The comfortable cork handles provide a secure, moisture-wicking grip that enhances control on slippery terrain.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for anyone needing reliable support on hikes, from beginners to seniors. Made from lightweight yet strong 7075 aluminum, these poles are durable and less heavy than many others, making long walks less tiring. They adjust easily from 24.5 to 54 inches using simple lever locks, which you can operate with one hand—more convenient than twist locks common on other poles. The cork handles offer a comfortable, moisture-wicking grip that fits your hand shape, helping prevent slipping when your palms get sweaty. The included padded straps add security without discomfort.

The poles come with rubber tips that can handle various surfaces, and their threaded design keeps accessories like snow baskets firmly attached in mud or snow. While the poles do not have specific shock absorption features, their sturdy aluminum build can help with stability on rough terrain. Their collapsible design also makes them easy to pack for travel.

One minor downside is that aluminum poles may transmit more vibration compared to carbon fiber options, which might affect comfort on very rocky trails. However, for most users looking for lightweight, adjustable, and durable walking sticks that provide good grip and convenience, TrailBuddy poles deliver excellent value and performance.

Rating
9.7
Material
Adjustability
Grip

Most important from
62760 reviews

Material
These poles combine lightweight design with exceptional durability, lasting through hundreds of hours of use.
Adjustability
Adjusting the poles is effortless thanks to simple lever locks that can be operated with one hand.
Grip
The comfortable cork handles provide a secure, moisture-wicking grip that enhances control on slippery terrain.
#3

Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles Blue Cork

Rating
8.8
Material
Adjustability
Grip

Most important from
25086 reviews

Material
Exceptionally sturdy and lightweight, these poles handle daily use over varied terrain with ease, supporting even heavier users on steep inclines.
Adjustability
The quick-lock adjustment system offers straightforward length customization suitable for a wide range of heights and terrains.
Grip
Cork grips stay comfortable and manage sweat effectively, maintaining a secure hold throughout extended treks.
Shock Absorption
Internal shock absorbers provide valuable support on downhill sections, reducing strain and enhancing comfort during long hikes.
Tip
Versatile tip options including rubber and snow baskets adapt seamlessly to different surfaces and weather conditions.

The Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles are a solid choice for hikers looking for lightweight and compact walking poles that are easy to carry and store. Made from durable aluminum, each pole weighs just over 9 ounces, making them light enough for long treks without adding much bulk to your pack. Their standout feature is the folding design; they collapse down to about 14 inches, which fits easily into most backpacks or luggage. Adjustability is straightforward with a quick-lock system that lets you set the length between 45 and 54 inches—this works well for a wide range of heights and terrains. The cork grips are comfortable and help reduce vibrations as you walk, plus they manage sweat better than rubber grips, making your hands less slippery.

The poles come with various tips including rubber, snow, and sand baskets, so you can use them in different environments, which adds to their versatility. While aluminum is strong, it might be slightly heavier compared to carbon fiber poles. The included carry case and wrist straps add convenience and comfort. Considering their features and user-friendly design, these poles suit not just casual hikers but anyone needing reliable, adjustable trekking poles for multiple outdoor conditions.

Rating
8.8
Material
Adjustability
Grip

Most important from
25086 reviews

Material
Exceptionally sturdy and lightweight, these poles handle daily use over varied terrain with ease, supporting even heavier users on steep inclines.
Adjustability
The quick-lock adjustment system offers straightforward length customization suitable for a wide range of heights and terrains.
Grip
Cork grips stay comfortable and manage sweat effectively, maintaining a secure hold throughout extended treks.
Shock Absorption
Internal shock absorbers provide valuable support on downhill sections, reducing strain and enhancing comfort during long hikes.
Tip
Versatile tip options including rubber and snow baskets adapt seamlessly to different surfaces and weather conditions.

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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