As a certified personal trainer and avid hiker, I’ve spent years trekking through forests, mountains, prairie wetlands, and canyons across several states and countries, relying on the best trekking poles to ease joint pressure, maintain balance on uneven trails, and power uphill with confidence. After interviewing certified outdoor experts and personally testing dozens of hiking gear essentials over the years, I have also come to appreciate trekking poles as one of my favorite tools for staying comfortable, strong, stable, and safe on the trail.
Together with a team of other Verywell Fit testers, we hit the trails with 21 trekking poles from top outdoor brands, logging over 300 miles on terrain ranging from paved park paths to rocky ascents. We evaluated each set for key features, like adjustability, grip, stability, portability, durability, and value. We also spoke with experts to learn what makes a trekking pole truly trail-worthy. Whether you’re hiking to build strength, support aging joints, or take on more technical terrain, we found the best options to help you move with confidence.
Credit: Amazon
Pros
Featherlight over long miles
Stable grip on angled rock
Smooth and reliable quick locks
Cons
Slight tip rattle
Not as compact as others
Key Specs
Weight per Pole: 8.1 ounces (no tips), 8.5 ounces (with tips) | Extended Length: 54 inches | Collapsed Length: 26 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Snow baskets, sand/mud baskets; rubber boot tips, rubber tips, trekking pole clip, carrying case | Shaft Material: Carbon fiber | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for hikers of all experience levels who want lightweight support and dependable comfort on uneven trails with moderate elevation changes.
Why We Love Them
Cascade Mountain’s Carbon Fiber Quick Lock Trekking Poles earned our top spot because they consistently performed well in every major testing category—including comfort, stability, portability, and adjustability. They felt virtually weightless over miles of wooded and rocky trails. We especially liked the comfortable cork grips that stayed dry and supportive even in humid conditions. The poles provided solid stability and grip, even when we tested them on smooth, angled rock during climbs and descents.
This pair was super easy to adjust and collapse thanks to a smooth sliding telescopic system and reliable quick-lock levers. They feature thoughtful design elements, including a molded EVA lower grip, padded wrist straps, and interchangeable tips for various terrains. Accessory tips aside, we found the base tips—made of strong tungsten carbide—provided surprisingly strong traction. We appreciated the clear height markings on the shaft that made customizing pole length fast and repeatable. They’re also one of the most affordable sets tested—offering great value for both casual and serious hikers who want a dependable, versatile, and lightweight pair for everything from weekend hikes to longer trail treks.
Potential Flaws
- The poles make a slight rattling noise when planting, which may be distracting for hikers who prefer quieter gear.
- While they collapse easily, their size may still be too long to fit inside smaller backpacks.
Most Valuable Insight
“My favorite thing about these trekking poles is the measured numbering system on each section: I can easily hit those marks for each hike, which makes setup super easy. I feel much more stable and less fatigued.” — Lance S., Verywell Fit product tester
Credit: Amazon
Pros
Steady support on boulders
Shock-absorbing tip suspension
Natural-feeling cork grips
Key Specs
Weight per Pole: 9.1 ounces | Extended Length: 39.4-47.2 inches | Collapsed Length: 16 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping, folding | Included Accessories: Basket tip, drawstring bag | Shaft Material: Carbon, aluminum | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They’re For
Best for users needing compact and durable poles suitable for various terrains.
Why We Love Them
Designed for women, Leki’s Cressida FX Carbon AS Trekking Poles are our top overall pick, thanks to their strong and stable carbon fiber construction, which is designed to absorb excess shock. The hybrid construction, with a carbon upper and aluminum bottom pieces—including carbide-enforced tips—makes these sleek, trifold poles durable and very supportive. Thanks to an ergonomic design, their cork grips felt very natural to hold. We also like that the tip’s dynamic suspension system absorbs shock very well. When using these to hike through a river with large boulders and slippery footing, we felt supported and never slipped.
While testing, we also found the set to be easy to assemble and deconstruct, thanks to the tight pull and snap of the locking system. When not in use, we like how the set folds up compactly into the included bag, making this pair stowable for everyday use, hiking, or backpacking. With an impressive design, compatibility, basket tip, and drawstring sleeve, these poles are a worthy investment for anyone needing a super-strong yet light pair of poles that are versatile for various terrains.
Potential Flaws
- The wrist straps were lightweight and compact, but we would have appreciated some padding on the straps.
Most Valuable Insight
“So light and compact that I took these up to Big Sur, and they fit in my small pack. I collapsed and bungeed them on the outside of my pack when I needed my hands to cross the Gorge. SO handy!” —Jessica M., Verywell Fit product tester
Credit: Amazon
Key Specs
Weight per Pole: 8 ounces | Extended Length: 39-51 inches | Collapsed Length: 24 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: None | Shaft Material: Carbon fiber | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best for intermediate to advanced users who need sturdy poles for challenging hikes.
Why We Love Them
Our men’s top pick is Black Diamond’s Alpine Carbon Trekking Poles, which we found to be incredibly durable, comfortable, and versatile for many types of adventures. The interchangeable carbide tech tips enabled us to adapt to varying trail surfaces without taking a long break. And the carbon fiber telescoping shaft was easy to adjust for new terrain and stayed securely locked, even with considerable force and weight on the poles.
We like that they expand to fit a wide range of heights, suiting anyone from 4 feet 8 inches to 6 feet tall, making them a great pair for most users. The cork grip and EVA foam extension were soft, promoting a comfortable and secure grip that didn’t cause blister issues during testing. While the set doesn’t come with any extra accessories, it is compatible with most baskets and tips. These poles proved to be a tough, versatile option for the most challenging hikes.
Potential Flaws
- We found the poles less compact than others on our list (and a little bulky to pack).
Most Valuable Insight
“They are really solid and reliable. They also look nice (which is weird to say about poles), but they are discreet, earthy, and nicely made.” —Jessica M., Verywell Fit product tester
Credit: Amazon
Pros
Durable
Budget-friendly
Includes carry bag
Key Specs
Weight (per Pole): 10.4 ounces | Extended Length: 39.3-47.25 inches (small), 45.25-53 inches (large) | Collapsed Length: 15 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping, folding | Included Accessories: Additional tips, baskets, drawstring bag | Shaft Material: Aluminum | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who They’re For
Best if you want a stable yet compact set of poles that’s convenient for travel.
Why We Love Them
Aluminum construction and reinforced joints make Trekology’s Trek-Z Hiking Poles dependable on all types of terrain and supportive for most body types. These poles come in longer and shorter versions, and both fold down to a compact 15 inches, making them easy to stow. The trifold design is extra sturdy thanks to its 100% aerospace-grade aluminum shaft (the same material used in airplanes). And we appreciate the included ripstop water-resistant bag and various tips, baskets, and feet.
The soft faux cork grips are made from sweat-absorbing EVA foam and feature extension grips. We found them comfortable and supportive when ascending or descending steep hills. The flip locks were also easy to use, making trail-side setup fast so you can spend more time walking and less time adjusting. We think these foldable poles are a great bang for your buck—they’re super strong, space-saving, and budget-friendly.
Potential Flaws
- During testing, one of the tips slid off the pole mid-hike, so ensure it is securely locked in place before hitting the trails.
- These poles are heavier than other options on our list, but we didn’t find it noticeable during test treks.
Most Valuable Insight
“They are very durable, despite being budget poles. A great deal for folding poles, too.” —Jessica M., Verywell Fit product tester
The Trekology Trek-Z poles have comfortable EVA foam grips that absorb sweat during long hikes.
Credit: Verywell FitTrekology’s Trek-Z Hiking Poles feature durable aluminum construction and fold to just 15 inches.
Credit: Verywell Fit
Credit: Black Diamond
Key Specs
Weight per Pole: 8.7 ounces | Extended Length: 49.2 inches (S/M), 55.1 inches (M/L) | Collapsed Length: 22.8 inches (S/M), 24.8 inches (M/L)| Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Trekking and snow baskets | Shaft Material: Aluminum | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They’re For
Best for frequent hikers who tackle challenging, uneven trails and want lightweight, all-day stability.
Why We Love Them
Black Diamond’s Pursuit Trekking Poles impressed us during testing for their durability, comfort, and trail stability. Even after miles of use on grassy hills, rocky slopes, and hilly pavement, we felt that the shafts stayed sturdy without flexing and showed no signs of wear or rust. The natural cork grips stayed dry and comfortable even in rain or when our hands were sweaty, and the EVA foam extensions made it easy to adjust grip position on steep ascents or descents. This gave us the kind of confidence on uneven terrain that encouraged us to take on more difficult trails.
We also loved how simple and secure the length adjustability was in the field—fast enough for mid-hike adjustments without sacrificing locking strength. They were light enough for long-distance treks yet felt solid and dependable on challenging routes. While they aren’t ultracompact, they’re still more than manageable for strapping to the outside of a pack. The included trekking and snow baskets add year-round versatility, making them a great investment for backpackers who want one pole set that can handle all seasons.
Potential Flaws
- At 25.5 inches, collapsed, they may be too long to fit inside smaller packs or carry-on luggage.
Most Valuable Insight
“These walking sticks are made so well that they easily could be the last pair of sticks that you would need to buy.” — Stacey W., Verywell Fit product tester
Credit: Amazon
Cons
Inaccurate pole markings
Limited instructions
Key Specs
Weight per Pole: 10.4 ounces | Extended Length: 54 inches | Collapsed Length: 26 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Trekking and snow baskets, travel bag | Shaft Material: Aluminum | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who They’re For
Best for beginner hikers and walkers who want a dependable, easy-to-use pole for casual trails and everyday support.
Why We Love Them
For new pole users or anyone looking for a low-cost, high-reliability option, Cascade’s Mountain Aluminum Quick Lock Trekking Poles proved comfortable, stable, and simple to use. At just over 1 pound per pair, these poles felt light in hand even after two hours of walking on asphalt. And the cork grips with soft, supportive straps made them comfortable to lean on as fatigue set in during test walks. We appreciated the quick-lock telescoping mechanism, which made adjustments fast and frustration-free, and the pole strength held full body weight without slipping or collapsing. Even when walking over slightly slippery patches, we felt more balanced and secure than without poles.
These portable poles disassemble in seconds and fit neatly into the included travel bag, making them easy to stash in a pack or the trunk of a car. We also found the aluminum construction reassuringly sturdy, showing no signs of bending or wear after repeated use. While designed for lighter hikes and everyday walking support, their tungsten carbide tips and included baskets mean they can handle muddy or snowy trails when needed.
Potential Flaws
- The centimeter scale markings on the shaft may be inaccurate, which could frustrate those who rely on precise measurements.
- Minimal instructions or guidance may leave first-time users wishing for a quick-start video or manual.
Most Valuable Insight
“They’re affordable, stable, lightweight, and very easy to adjust and disassemble. Grips and straps were supportive and comfortable even during long use.” —Boris K., Verywell Fit product tester
Credit: Amazon
Key Specs
Weight per Pole: 8 ounces | Extended Length: 48 inches | Collapsed Length: 23 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Snow and hiking baskets, replacement carbide tips, rubber feet | Shaft Material: Aluminum | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Best for beginner to intermediate hikers who want reliable, lightweight poles for long walks, moderate climbs, and everyday trail use.
Why We Love Them
Mountainsmith’s 2024 Tellurite 7075 OLS WSD proved to be stable, comfortable, and easy to adjust during testing, whether on neighborhood walks or backcountry trips. We noticed right away how secure the set’s locking system felt, even when putting full body weight onto the poles on steeper inclines. The non-slip cork and EVA handles, along with supportive wrist straps, made long walks more comfortable, even when hands got damp or conditions were less than ideal.
The most practical and trail-ready options we tried, these poles were as strong and lightweight as more premium options, plus we could use them for hours without feeling weighed down. They felt dependable, and the telescoping sections and clear measurement scale made height adjustments fast and precise, even for first-time pole users. During testing, the aluminum shafts exhibited no signs of bending or paint wear, demonstrating their durability over time.
Potential Flaws
- These poles don’t come with a storage bag, which could be inconvenient if you like to keep your gear neatly packed.
Most Valuable Insight
“The locking mechanism feels secure even when I put my whole weight on the poles.” — Marina K., Verywell Fit product tester
Credit: Amazon
Key Specs
Weight per Pole: 8.5 ounces (small), 9 ounces (large) | Extended Length: 39.4-47 inches (small), 47.2-55 inches (large) | Collapsed Length: 14.2 inches (folded) | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping, folding | Included Accessories: Snow and hiking baskets | Shaft Material: Kevlar-reinforced carbon fiber | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Who They’re For
Best for multi-sport trekkers who want versatile, ultralight poles that pack small but perform reliably on everything from flat trails to snowy terrain.
Why We Love Them
MSR’s DynaLock Ascent Carbon Backcountry Trekking Poles impressed us during testing for their weight savings, durability, and compact storage. These reinforced carbon fiber poles felt lighter than aluminum competitors without sacrificing stability. We loved how easily they collapsed into a 14-inch folded length, which made them one of the most packable options in our lineup. We also appreciated the secure, tool-free locks and found the foam grips and padded straps comfortable over long hikes, even in wet or snowy conditions.
These poles are also especially versatile. The included interchangeable baskets made it simple to adapt them for grass, sand, or snow, and the two available sizes fit a wide range of hikers (from 4 feet 8 inches to over 6 feet 4 inches). Compared to other folding poles, the MSR pair packed down more neatly and proved easy to stow in or on a hiking bag. During long treks, these poles helped relieve knee strain and provided stable support on mixed terrain. For anyone who values lightweight gear without compromising durability, this pair is one of the most trail-ready options.
Potential Flaws
- These poles don’t come with a carrying bag, which may be inconvenient for hikers who like to keep accessories neatly organized. However, we found that the included Velcro straps are sufficient for keeping the poles wrapped tightly for packing.
- One thing to note is that the push button to release these for folding can pinch fingers, so just be extra cautious.
Most Valuable Insight
“These trekking poles are lightweight and easy to adjust. They’re helpful for long hikes in all conditions.” —Jacob F., Verywell Fit product tester
Credit: Amazon
Pros
Budget-friendly
Easy to adjust
Sturdy
Key Specs
Weight (per Pole): 9.7 ounces | Extended Length: 25.5-54 inches | Collapsed Length: 24.5 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Additional tips, baskets, drawstring bag | Shaft Material: Aluminum | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5
Who They’re For
Best if you need extra support for balance and stability on uneven, uncertain trails.
Why We Love Them
With a strong aluminum staff, TrailBuddy’s Adjustable Trekking Poles are ideal for older adults who want to keep active but need more stability while on the move. The easy-to-hold cork handles are grippy and comfortable, molding to hands in hot and cold weather for better grip. We found that the wide wrist straps offered the most padding among all the poles on our list.
During testing, we also found it easy to adjust the poles—something especially important if you or your loved one has arthritis pain or hand immobility. And though the extra-strong aluminum makes these a bit heavier than others, the reliable sturdiness is worth the extra weight. This value-packed set comes with two pairs of rubber tips, mud baskets, snow baskets, and one pair of connectors. We loved stowing all the pieces in the included carry bag, so everything’s right where you left it for when it’s time to set out again.
Potential Flaws
- We found that the locks on these poles need a solid tightening before use. However, once tightened, they’re extremely secure.
Most Valuable Insight
“Great value—you get a sturdy pair and accessories for a reasonable price. The feet are great for traction on pavement or floors when you need help up or pushing off. Great for balance.” —Jessica M., Verywell Fit product tester
Credit: Foxelli
Pros
Lightweight
Great value
Handle isn’t bulky
Key Specs
Weight (per Pole): 7 ounces | Extended Length: 24-55 inches | Collapsed Length: 24 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Additional tips, baskets, drawstring bag, fanny pack | Shaft Material: Carbon fiber | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who They’re For
Best suited for trail runners who prefer light, low-profile trekking poles.
Why We Love Them
When every ounce counts, we recommend Foxelli’s Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles. Each pole weighs 7 ounces, so your energy can go toward moving faster instead of lifting a heavier pole. This weight difference was noticeable when we took the poles out on a hike. Along with the lightweight construction, we appreciate that the tips and baskets stayed securely in place. And we found these telescoping poles easy to adjust.
During testing, they felt shock-absorbing and helped propel us forward with each stride. They’re also extremely comfortable, with a natural cork grip and foam extension combo that keeps our hands dry. We noticed that the handle feels smaller than most, making these extra-accessible if you have small hands. Plus, they come with a convenient carrying sleeve and a bonus fanny pack, which was a nice surprise.
Potential Flaws
- Some of the plastic parts, such as the locking joints, feel less durable and of lower quality than those found on pricier models.
Most Valuable Insight
“They’re a great deal and will work nicely for most people! The road feet are great for those on pavement, too.” —Jessica M., Verywell Fit product tester
Credit: Amazon
Pros
Very light
Extra tips included
Carry bag included
Key Specs
Weight (per Pole): 7.4 ounces | Extended Length: 24-53 inches | Collapsed Length: 24 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Additional tips, baskets, storage bag | Shaft Material: Carbon fiber | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who They’re For
Best for beginners who need reliable yet budget-friendly trekking poles.
Why We Love Them
Rookie hikers need reliable trekking poles at an affordable price, so we recommend TheFitLife’s Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles. Weighing around 7 ounces a stem—less than most on our list—these poles are light to carry and easy to transport. The carbon fiber construction, which telescopes and locks tight with adjustment, feels sturdy and built to last. We also love that this set comes with many accessories, including a pair of small snow baskets (which helped with traction on slick surfaces).
For the price, these trekking poles have some premium features, including a contoured, natural cork grip that feels great in the hand. We also like that you can choose from a selection of bright or neutral colors. Plus, they come with a waterproof, pinchable carrying sleeve to contain the poles and all the accessories. Overall, we think the combination of solid features and accessories makes this set a great value for the price.
Potential Flaws
- The wrist straps are long and dangle a lot, which may be particularly annoying if you have smaller wrists.
Most Valuable Insight
“These are cute—they have a fun bubble design, are available in various colors, and come with a lot of tip options. I like that they have a storage sleeve to keep everything contained.” —Jessica M., Verywell Fit product tester
Credit: Black Diamond
Key Specs
Weight per Pole: 13.47, 13.79, 14.11, 14.43, or 14.75 ounces | Extended Length: 43.31, 45.28, 47.24, 49.21, or 51.18 inches | Collapsed Length: 14.57, 15.35, 15.75, 16.54, or 17.32 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Folding | Included Accessories: Snow and hiking baskets | Shaft Material: Carbon | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who They’re For
Best for serious hikers, thru-hikers, and frequent travelers who want ultra-portable trekking poles that reduce hand fatigue and support long treks.
Why We Love Them
Black Diamond’s Pursuit Carbon Z Poles impressed us with their ultralight weight and compact fold, making them extremely easy to carry on long hikes or while traveling. During tests, we appreciated how they collapse into a small footprint, fitting neatly into a backpack without occupying much space. The ergonomic cork grips and airmesh wrist straps provided comfort and stability, even when supporting full body weight, which was critical for reducing fatigue on extended treks.
We also appreciated the sturdy carbon construction that didn’t flex or bend under pressure, giving us confidence on uneven terrain. The poles proved high-quality and reliable, showing no signs of wear or degradation. These poles combine lightweight portability with durable performance, making them a great option for anyone wanting a convenient pair that is also comfortable and stable.
Potential Flaws
- The poles have a fixed height, so you must select the correct size for your height to ensure comfort and stability.
- The price point is steep, especially for casual or infrequent hikers.
Most Valuable Insight
“I’d choose these walking sticks over any others for a long-distance hike because my hands feel stable and secure, and they haven’t slipped while using them.” —Alena K., Verywell Fit product tester
Trekking Poles We Also Tested
- Zpacks’ Minimalist Trekking Poles impressed with their ultralight carbon fiber build and compact design, but didn’t hold up on steeper, more strenuous trails. The twist-lock mechanism slipped under pressure, and the foam grip felt less durable and absorbent than other options we tested.
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What We’ve Updated
- Since publishing our original roundup of the best trekking poles, we have tested eight additional models with over 120 hours of varied terrain, bringing our total to 21 trekking poles tested and more than 300 miles walked. We evaluated each for adjustability, grip, stability, portability, durability, and overall value in both real-world and controlled conditions.
- We updated two of our top picks—including our Best Budget and Best Lightweight options—based on new performance insights, and introduced new superlatives to better highlight the best designs for different types of hikers and terrain.
- We also refined and expanded our methodology to include additional testing categories, such as portability, adjustability, and durability, to better reflect how trekking poles perform over time and in various trail conditions.
How to Choose the Best Trekking Poles
- Construction: For more rigorous, mountainous hiking or hiking in harsher weather, a more durable stick is required to help you navigate the terrain. The weakest parts of a pole are the connections, so opting for a fixed walking stick may be a good idea if you need something to hold a lot of weight. New or casual hikers, as well as outdoor walkers, may be satisfied with a walking staff or pole of simpler construction.
- Material: Most walking sticks and trekking poles are made from wood, carbon fiber, or aluminum. Carbon fiber poles are considered strong and light, but the strength is mostly in the long axis of the pole, says AMGA professional mountain guide Peter Walker. If the pole gets torqued, like if it gets jammed in a crack, it will splinter and break, he adds. Also, consider how much weight your poles will add to your pack since a large load can turn a quick hike into a long slog.
- Grips: Grips are often made from molded foam, rubber, or natural cork, with cork being the most durable and comfortable option, but also the most expensive. And rubber can be colder to the touch than cork in cold weather, which is a small thing but can be important, says Chad Martin, AMGA-certified SPI, WFR, certified rock-climbing guide and instructor. Make sure your grips feel comfortable to prevent sore spots or blisters.
- Design: Trekking poles can be adjusted by telescoping or folding. Telescoping is the most common, where sections of the pole are nested together and slide and lock into place. Walker recommends poles that collapse into three sections since they are easier to stow. Poles in two sections will be harder to carry in a backpack or your luggage. Trifold poles often have a band running through the center that keeps the nested sections together.
- Special Features: Walking sticks and poles may come with special features and accessories. Some sets absorb shock well, while others have snow baskets for hiking in cold temperatures. Tips are also important—basket tips are ideal for snow, while rubber feet work best on pavement.
How We Tested the Trekking Poles
To find the best trekking poles, we tested 21 options in real-world conditions. We walked and hiked on various terrains to evaluate the features of each pole. During testing, we assessed each trekking pole based on the following criteria:
- Adjustability: To evaluate adjustability, we noted the time it took to assemble or disassemble the poles, if they are collapsible. We also tracked whether the locking mechanisms were intuitive and could be operated one-handed. While assessing the adjustability of each pole, we asked questions like: Are the poles easy to collapse and set up again between uses? If there are extra tips or baskets, are they easy to add or remove?
- Grip: Comfort is a crucial aspect to consider when selecting trekking poles. Does the stick adjust in height so that our elbows can be bent at the recommended 90-degree angle when hiking? Are the grips soft and contoured? Do the wrist straps adjust, and are they padded? We prioritized trekking poles with lots of comfort features and adjustability.
- Stability: To assess the stability of trekking poles, we took each set on hikes of two to five miles at a time on terrain ranging from groomed trails to technical, steep terrain. We noted whether the pair was sturdy enough to help us feel supported and balanced, or if it was flimsy or shaky. If the stick is collapsible or foldable, we considered whether the connections and locking mechanisms felt solid and secure.
- Portability: A portable set of trekking poles is essential when you’re on foot, so we paid close attention to how each set felt during long hikes: was the weight of the poles comfortable to carry, and how easily could they be stashed when not in use? We considered whether the poles were compact enough to strap to a backpack or fit in carry-on luggage, and whether they would be practical for long-distance or ultralight hiking. We also noted how cumbersome or convenient they were to store and carry throughout the day. Poles that were lightweight, easy to collapse, and packable earned the highest marks.
- Durability: To suss out durability, we used each set of trekking poles on multiple hikes and looked for signs of wear, like bending, loosening at the joints, or degradation of grip and tip materials. We applied body weight and lateral pressure on various surfaces to see how well the poles held up under real trail conditions. We also exposed them to rain, mud, and varying temperatures to check for weather resistance. Any poles that flexed too much, rusted, or showed early signs of breakdown were scored lower for durability.
- Value: To assess the value of each set of trekking poles, we waited to look at the price until the end of the testing period, after we evaluated all other criteria. Based on their performance and our experience, we determined if the price is fair. We also considered whether we would buy them at full price and whether we would recommend them to friends and family.
Foxelli’s Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles feature handles that are ideal for users with small hands.
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Our Experts
We consulted experts at every stage of researching, testing, and reporting for this story. They helped us understand what features to look for when shopping for trekking poles, the proper way to use them, and any safety concerns that should be considered.
- Peter Walker, AMGA professional mountain guide
- Cory Goei, AMGA-certified SPI, certified rock climbing guide and instructor
- Chad Martin, AMGA-certified SPI, WFR, certified rock climbing guide and instructor
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between hiking poles and trekking poles?
The terms “hiking poles” and “trekking poles” are often used interchangeably, though some brands and hikers refer to a single walking stick or trekking pole as a hiking pole (more like a traditional walking cane) and a matching pair as trekking poles. Regardless of the term, they all serve the same purpose: to improve balance, reduce joint impact, and provide support on uneven terrain.
Is it better to have one or two trekking poles?
Using two trekking poles offers better balance and reduces strain on knees and joints, especially during descents, according to research. While some ultralight hikers or casual walkers may opt for one pole for simplicity or weight savings—particularly on flatter terrain—two poles help distribute weight more evenly, making hikes feel easier and safer for most users.
Are trekking poles really that helpful?
In addition to easing the load, trekking poles can help you burn more calories, improve upper body strength, and help reduce ankle fractures and muscle soreness. Everyone can benefit from using poles, says Goei. They engage the upper body during hiking and distribute the workout across your full body.
What’s the best height for a trekking pole?
According to our experts, walking sticks or poles should be tall enough to allow for a 90-degree bend in your elbow. Many walking sticks allow you to change your grip position depending on the type of trail you’re navigating. For example, when traveling uphill, the poles are adjusted shorter, but when going downhill, the poles are a bit longer, says Martin.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
A certified personal trainer and avid hiker, Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, researches and reviews fitness gear for Verywell Fit. She is dedicated to reporting authentic content to her readers. Her favorite trekking poles to take hiking are Leki’s Cressida FX Carbon AS Trekking Poles because of their light and compact design, the fact that they’re ergonomically made for women, and their strong stability that absorbs excess shock. For this shopping guide, she prioritized eco-conscious brands that promote size, gender, and race inclusivity in their products.
Additional reporting by Amy Scanlin and Jen Zeltwanger
As a long-time fitness enthusiast, group fitness instructor, and Verywell Fit writer, Amy Scanlin, ACE-GFI, MS, always sources the best products through expert opinions and first-hand reviews. When choosing top products for articles, she always balances product features, value, and practical application before recommending them to her readers. Amy is passionate about helping enable her clients and readers to live a life of activity, both in the gym and in the great outdoors.
Jen Zeltwanger, ACSM-EP, is an ACSM-certified exercise physiologist and Verywell Fit writer. Jen has written articles and tested products for a variety of fitness and wellness publications. She has lots of experience with home and outdoor fitness, including walking and hiking. Jen knows what works and what to look for when shopping for fitness products, and she prioritizes products that are easy to use, versatile, and well-made.
