The Best Hiking and Trekking Poles

Posted on Dec 17, 2018 by Beckworth & Co.

Trekking poles or hiking staffs are great companions to those whose love the outdoors. They are standard equipment for a lot of hikers, backpackers and trekkers. There are many benefits of hiking using trekking poles. Many outdoor enthusiasts say hiking poles enhance stability, increase confidence, and provide support on all types of terrain. They also help minimize or prevent sore muscles and knee or foot problems.

Once considered just for older folks, they have now become a must-have among hikers of all ages. Whether you’re just out for a quick day hike or trekking along off-road terrains or mountain trails, these hiking poles will help ease your struggles and will make the experience more comfortable and safe.

To get the most out of trail poles, start by choosing between a pair of trekking poles or a single trail pole. This list features hiking poles in pair from brands like Cascade Mountain Tech, BAFX Products (which is an Amazon best seller) and others. Also consider finding the right length – walking poles should be easily adjustable to your desired height for maximum comfort. Shock absorption systems will reduce the impact when walking on hard surfaces and rough terrains. The poles should also have reliable locking mechanisms to ensure safety throughout the hike, and should be compact for easy storage.

BAFX Products - Anti Shock Hiking/Walking/Trekking Trail Poles

Compliments	Complaints
Amazon's Choice for "hiking poles" Easy to adjust and foldable Great support and anti shock feature helps with balance Inexpensive, lightweight and well made Option for two different ends (carbide and rubber-tipped)	Straps are too short Don't stay extended very well under heavy strain
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Foxelli Trekking Poles – All Terrain Accessories and Carry Bag


Compliments	Complaints
Helped with balance and climbing/descending rough terrain Grips are very comfortable Lightweight and helps with grip Clamps hold very securely and do not slip when tightened properly Great customer service from the company	Annoying rattle sound Poles do not slide in and out very smoothly when adjusting Pole straps are positioned in the same direction
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Cascade Mountain Tech Aluminum Collapsible Quick Lock Trekking Poles


Compliments	Complaints
Strong aluminum with quick locks Lightweight and tough poles Comfortable cork handles allow a firm grip and decreases vibration as you step Snap locks work well and don't slip Rubber and carbide tips gave excellent traction needed	Not foldable and compact Cork grip isn't great with gloves Long, even when fully closed (can't be stored in a backpack)
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High Trek Premium Ultralight Trekking Poles with Sweat Absorbing EVA Grips


Compliments	Complaints
Easy, one-hand length adjustment with the lever locks Held up to constant barrage of use Handles are ergonomically designed EVA handles keep hands dry and comfortable High quality tungsten carbide tips withstand scratches or dents	Issues with the poles' locks not working and not locking in place Too large to fit in a backpack even when fully collapsed
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TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles

Compliments	Complaints
Amazon's Choice for "snowshoe poles" Held up when trekking over rocky terrain Sturdy but light Variable lengths and have comfortable handles Assist with stability and balance on the trail	Handle material was too hard and got slippery when sweaty Straps were too short Too long; can't fit in a backpack
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Hiker Hunger 100% Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles


Compliments	Complaints
Held up when used on rugged trail including rock, shale, etc Excellent customer service from the company Excellent hand grips Flip-locks are easy to adjust Locks does not need to be re-adjusted during the hike	Poles keep getting shorter/constantly loosen when you apply pressure Straps and handles are pretty bulky
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Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber Collapsible Quick Lock Trekking Pole


Compliments	Complaints
Amazon's Choice Carbon fiber shafts - lighter and just as durable as aluminum Cork grips hold up better over time and doesn't get slippery when wet Flip lock mechanism works well Several different tip attachments	Issues with snap locks screw keep coming loose on hikes Poles kept collapsing and needs to be re-adjusted
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Alpine Summit Hiking/Trekking Poles


Compliments	Complaints
Easy height adjustment with the flip locks Cork grips keep hands comfortable and dry Lightweight and sturdy Poles do not slip under heavy weight or pressure Rubber tips stay firm to the trekking pole and do not slip off	Issues with snow basket breaking off Some customers have issues with the poles breaking
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