To have a successful hike, you need the right tools. They can make all the difference. Trekking poles, for example, are essential, especially for some terrains. A trekking pole is important, as it will give you support to enhance your stability, while at the same time reducing the force or impact that your knees have to deal with while hiking.
Even though they serve the same function, not all trekking poles are created equal. Discover the best trekking poles below!
Best Trekking Poles
In this buying guide, we are going to compare the 5 best trekking poles on the market right now. They are top-ranking trekking poles that you can count on in the thick of things. Here are the top picks we have for you.
In A Hurry? Here Are Our Top Picks…
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The Bafx Hiking Pole is sold in pairs, meaning one set contains two poles. These trekking poles are strong, adjustable, anti-shock, and lightweight. They are made of high-quality aluminum material and can be used for walking or trekking.
Since they are adjustable, they can be used by everybody in the family. They are great for both beginners and experts. It is great for anyone who falls between 3’6” to 6’4”.
They have been comfortably made with ergonomic grips and wide padded wrist straps. The weight and anti-shock feature make them the best choice that you can go for. It has a twist-lock locking mechanism that is very convenient.
Even though they are lightweight, they are very durable. They have been made with 6061 aluminum, which is light but very durable.
The product comes with a 1-year warranty and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
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Foxeilli’s aluminum trekking poles are made of high quality 7075 aluminum, which is both lightweight and durable. That makes your hike easier, as you will use less energy and get less fatigued.
These poles feature an indestructible design that makes them suitable for all different kinds of trips. They are adjustable with a quick lock feature that even kids can use, and they can comfortably support from 24” to 55” in height.
The Foxelli poles include an anti-slip natural cork that will provide a good grip, while at the same time absorb sweat to keep your hands dry during a hike. The wrist straps are extra padded and adjustable to give you additional comfort. They have an extended foam sleeve made of soft EVA foam and have ridges to make sure that changes in terrain are smooth.
This pole has been made for all terrains and activities like walking, ice climbing, hiking, and more. It comes with different tips – including carbide and thermoplastic tips – to make it suitable for different terrains.
The product comes with a 3-year warranty and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. There is also a 120-day return window if you are not satisfied with the product.
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This is a trekking pole that has been made with 100% carbon fiber material. Carbon fiber is normally more lightweight as compared to aluminum. It only weighs 7.6 oz which is very light. The material is good at absorbing shocks and minimizing impact on joints.
It is also durable and sturdy making it suitable for any kind of setting.
Just like the Foxelli aluminum pole, it has a quick-lock feature. They are easily adjustable and after adjusting to your preferred height you can lock. The sturdy locks will keep them in place making them not to come in your way.
It can be used from 24” to 55” making it suitable for the whole family.
It has a cork grip for additional comfort and wicking moisture away. The grip makes it to be anti-slip. The straps are extra-padded , adjustable, and comfortable for more convenience.
The trekking poles have a thermoplastic rubber tip that you can use across different terrains.
There is a 120-day money back guarantee and a 3-year warranty with the purchase of the product.
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This is an aluminum-made trekking pole that is 120cm in length. It has been uniquely made with a three-section foldable design.
The Black Diamond Distance Z has an advanced slide lock technology to make it easy to do adjustments and lock the pole. Apart from locking your poles, there is improved grip and stability. The slide lock feature comes with a speed cone deployment that gives you the flexibility of adjusting the length to suit your taste.
The pole comes with a non-scarring rubber tip that is very durable. The handle has an Eva foam grip for more comfort and to absorb moisture. The grip will make sure that your hand is free from sores or blisters.
The three-section foldable shaft means you can fold the pole in three parts and store it away for convenience. The shaft has a stopper basket that will help to make sure that the folded sections are secure so that they do not get in your way when you are not using them.
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This is a trekking pole that has been specifically made for women.
It has been designed with an AERGON grip for an easy grip at all angles, even on steeper terrains. The Thermo foam grip material ensures that you are comfortable and insulated during cold weather. The king of grip, this pole is suitable for different activities, including traversing and climbing.
The LEKI trekking pole is light in your hands. It has been made with a hollow core and a lightweight material. It has an air-textured light strap that ensures efficient wicking and is fast drying. You can easily adjust and secure a strap without any buckles.
It features a great locking technology, the SPEED LOCK 2 lever locking mechanism, which is the strongest out there and is highly rated by TUV.
The shaft has been made with 100% high modulus carbon material for greater reliability. The shaft is PE coated with a reinforcement of Kevlar for long-term reliability.
It has an external locking device for easy release of the assembly of the pole for easy knockdown and packing. The lower shaft has internal springs to ensure maximum tension in between shaft sections. The ends are made with carbon and protected by aluminum to make them long-lasting.
The pole comes with carbide tips so that you can use them across different terrains. There is an interchangeable basket system with different Leki baskets that can be easily screwed on and off to keep the baskets in place.
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Buyer’s Guide
All of the above trekking poles are the best on the market right now. Since you have several choices, it may be confusing on which one to buy. We’ll clear it up in this section with a guide to help you decide based on the most important factors.
Best in Terms of Tips Flexibility
Even though most poles are made with the best tips, the Bafx is the trekking pole that offers the most flexibility. It comes with rubber, carbide, and mud disc. The different tips make it versatile enough to use in different terrains. Even though some poles may just have rubber tips, rubber tends to wear out fast under certain terrains.
Most Lightweight
When we compare the weight, the most lightweight is the LEKI Micro Vario Carbon Pole that only weighs 1.3 pounds. The shaft has been made hollow so that it is much lighter than other poles.
Easiest to Carry
When it comes to backpacking, if you can find a pole that can fit in your bag, it will be easier for you. The Black Diamond Distance Z Trekking Pole can be folded into three parts, making it very convenient. You can easily fit it in your bag when you are not using it.
Best Customer Service
When it comes to customer service, the Foxelli Trekking Poles are the best, as they come with a 3-year warranty and a 120-day money-back guarantee. There is also a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.
Most Budget-friendly
When we compare the five trekking poles, the most budget-friendly is the Bafx hiking pole. It is only $21.99 and comes as a pair. Fortunately, even if it comes cheaper, that does not mean it is inferior.
Our Overall Recommendation
Our overall recommendation is the Bafx hiking pole, since it is affordable and can be used in so many different terrains. The best choice will, however, depend on your individual needs.
It is important to think about what kind of hikes you’ll go on and what you kind of support you’ll want to use. All of the poles are great picks, so before defining your needs and shopping for a trekking pole, it is also important to know why exactly you need it.
Here are the different considerations for buying a hiking pole:
Stability
When you have a heavy load on your back especially if you are backpacking for long, it is easy to lose stability. A trekking pole can help you regain balance which is important for the hike to progress smoothly.
Balance
Some terrains are very tricky. For example, if you are crossing a stream, it can get slippery. A hiking pole can help in keeping you stable, so that you do not slide on slippery terrains.
Easy Climbing
If you are tackling a steep hill, it may be a challenge climbing it with no extra support. Ascending and descending will both be a challenge. A trekking pole will help you pull yourself up when ascending, and give you support when descending.
Reducing Strain
As mentioned earlier, a hiking pole will reduce strain on your knees by up to 25%. That will help you to be less hurt after the hike.
From the above, it is clear that a trekking pole is very important. When you are looking for a trekking pole, be sure to check on the weight, height/adjustability, material used, the tips, the grip, and the customer care/warranty. It is also important not to skip out on user reviews, since it is through them that you will discover the experiences of other customers with the product. If many customers have had a good experience, then you are also likely to have a good experience.
It is also important to note that the kind of care you give your trekking pole will determine how long it will last. There are some tips such as rubber, that will wear out quickly when used in certain terrains for prolonged periods. The prices are usually set based on pole features, tips, and the material used.
