Best Hiking Poles

If you enjoy hiking, then one way to make your walks and hikes safer and more enjoyable is to use hiking poles. With a hiking pole in each hand, you can walk with more stability and cover terrain that you might not have been able to before.

Given how beneficial hiking poles are for walking and hiking, the question must be which poles are the most suitable for your needs. In this article we will assess four of the best hiking poles available on the market today, highlighting the pros and cons of each.

While we recommend all of the poles listed here, if we were to pick one which was slightly ahead of the others, it would be the Black Diamond Carbon Cork Trekking Poles.

They’re pricey but having used them for over a year now, we are confident they are an excellent purchase which will provide a great return on investment, and a lot of great value over time.

1. The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork

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Black Diamond Carbon Cork Hiking Poles Features Summary:

• Premium cork grip with redesigned soft touch ergonomic grip top
• Solution strap for better handling and security
• New FlickLock Pro adjustability—now featuring aluminum construction that’s lighter and easier to use
• 3-section 100% carbon fiber shaft
• Interchangeable carbide Tech Tips, 38mm Trekking Basket
• Ski compatible ferrule will accept 100mm powder baskets for deep snow
• Pole height: 24-51 inches (61-130 cm)
  

Best Uses: Day hiking, trekking, hiking in snow

Product Description

The Alpine is a solid hiking pole from the Black Diamond product line. The Black Diamond Alpine Hiking Poles remain one of the best hiking poles thanks to its sturdy carbon fiber construction and comfortable cork handles.

Features

These hiking poles have cork handles which give you a safe and secure grip when walking. To enhance this, they also have padded straps which can be adjusted. The combination of the grips and straps ensure you have a sound and comfortable grip which makes your hike safe and more enjoyable.

Below the grip, there is an EVA foam extension which can be gripped when hiking in difficult or uneven terrain. This gives you more stability when walking up or down steep inclines or on surfaces where holding the normal handles is not possible.

The strength of hiking poles is crucial, and with these, it is assured by the fact that the shaft is constructed using 100% carbon fiber. The shaft is in three sections which makes the poles easy to pack and transport, and they can also be adjusted for the user’s height.

To help you hike on different ground conditions you can attach various tips and baskets for walking on hard surfaces, snow and ice, for example. These are interchangeable so that the base of your pole gives you the best traction and stability

Summary

These are a strong and comfortable pair of hiking poles which can be used to hike in all four seasons, and on many different terrains. Overall, it is our top recommendation.

Read full review here.

2. LEKI Micro Vario Carbon

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Leki Micro Vario Carbon Hiking Poles Features Summary:

• SpeedLock2 system make length adjustments quick and easy
• ELD (External Locking Device) gives easy access to release the assembly tension of the pole for quick knockdown and packing
• Aergon Thermo foam grips’ hollow-core construction saves weight and creates an edgeless, rounded grip for comfort at all angles
• Thermo foam grip material provides extra comfort, light weight and insulation in cold weather
• Built-in 8° positive angle in grips keeps wrist in a neutral position
• Air-textured wrist straps wick away moisture and dry quickly; straps adjust without buckles
• 100% high modulus carbon shaft sections provide reliable, lightweight performance in all conditions
• Polyethylene-coated, Kevlar®-reinforced tension cord offers long-term reliability
• Maximum tension between shaft sections made possible by internal (serviceable) spring in lower shaft
• Carbon section ends are protected by machined aluminum sleeves to provide extra-long wear
• Machined aluminum connectors help center shaft sections for quick, snag-free assembly
• Leki original Carbide Flextips provide a secure hold on all terrain and surfaces for years of adventure; plus, they can be easily replaced in the field
• Interchangeable basket system allows a variety of different sized Leki baskets (sold separately) to be easily screwed on/off for different seasons and uses
• Includes travel/stow bag
  

Best Uses: Day hiking, trekking, backpacking

Product Description

The Micro Vario Carbon hiking pole is a close contender for number one on this list. They are intelligently designed with carbon and aluminum used in the main poles and foam in the handles.

It’s worth mentioning here, that there is also a version of this model of poles designed specifically for women. The basic features and materials are similar but with some tweaks for the female body form. You can check out the Leki Micro Vario Carbon trekking poles for women here.

Features

The handles are constructed using ‘Aergon Thermo’ foam grip which is a hollow-core construction, so they are lightweight. They also work great in hot or cold temperatures. They are designed with the hiker in mind and are easy to use on the flat or when you need to head up steeper climbs.

The handles also feature air-textured wrist straps which wick away moisture and dry quickly should they get wet. I am not a fan of using straps while holding poles personally, but they work well together with the handles, should you like to do so.

Below the main handle grip, there is an extension which can be used when moving on uneven trails, rocks, etc. This feature is typical in good poles, and gives you quick versatility options while on the move, without having to adjust the height.

These poles are overall pretty strong and durable, and feel good under body weight. However, there are more durable options available.

The shaft splits out in three sections which are connected by a polyethylene-coated, Kevlar®-reinforced tension cord. Yes indeed, Kevlar, so the cord is strong!

The poles are very easy to collapse down to pack away, and due to how light they are, they are easy to pack in a bag for transport. The poles can be adapted to your desired height using the carbon section ends, which work well and stay strong after adjustment.

The Leki Micro Vario poles also come with an interchangeable basket system which allows a variety of different sized Leki baskets to be easily screwed on/off, for different seasons and uses. These are sold separately though. The poles also come with a nice stow / travel bag which is definitely handy to have.

Summary

Overall, these are a really sturdy set of poles which are lightweight, strong and easy to pack away, while not sacrificing any functionality. We love that there is a women specific design for these poles too. As mentioned, these hiking poles are a close contender for the number one spot on this list.

3. Foxelli Trekking Poles

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Foxelli Hiking Poles Features Summary:

• 100% Carbon Fiber
• Lightweight – only 7 oz
• Retractable from 24” to 55”
• Shock and noise absorbent
• Natural cork grips with extended EVA foam sleeves
• Extra padded adjustable wrist straps
• 4 Season accessories

Best Uses: Day hiking, trekking, hiking in snow

Product Description

The Foxelli Trekking Poles have a collapsible design which can extend up to 55 inches and fold down to 24 inches. When they are entirely collapsed they will fit in just about any hiking pack. These are suitable for both adults and kids.

The total package comes with:

• 2 x Trekking poles
• 2 x Storage tips
• 2 x Asphalt tips
• 2 x Mud baskets
• 2 x Snow baskets
• 1 x Carrying clip
• 1 x Carrying bag

Features

The hiking poles are suitable for all terrain, thanks to the various attachments and tips that can be fitted to the end of them. The main pole has a tungsten-carbide tip which ensures it’s tough enough for harder surfaces.

The attachments, which are made from strong, thermoplastic rubber, come in four different shapes for use on snow, mud, sand, and rocks.

The grip handles are made from cork, which helps to keep your hands cool and dry, especially when hiking in hot conditions. The grip extends down the shaft of the poles with a foam sleeve which has ridges for an even greater grasp of the pole.

Both adults and children can use these poles as they adjust from 55 inches long, down to just 24 inches. This also means they can be adjusted to suit virtually any height.

The shaft is made from carbon fiber which provides great stability and strength but also makes the poles very lightweight so that they are not burdensome when in use. Each pole weighs only 7 ounces so there should be no risk of fatigue when carrying them on hikes.

Summary

These are a great pair of hiking poles which can be used to hike on multiple surface types. They are lightweight, and very durable. The carry bag that comes with the poles are a great extra.

4. Montem Ultralight 3K Carbon Fiber

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Montem 3K Carbon Fiber Hiking Poles Features Summary:

• Material: Woven 100% Carbon Fiber allows for lightweight and compact hiking
• Weight: 7.8 ounces (221 gms) per pole
• Cork handles
• Nylon safety straps
• Comes with rubber tips and mud baskets
• Durable carbide tips for icy terrain as well as a pair of rubber tips for normal terrain
• Modern flick locks to adjust and secure ideal height
• Poles compact down from 53 inches (134.62 cms) to 24 (60.96 cms) inches
• One year limited warranty

Best Uses: Day hiking, trekking, hiking in snow, leisure walking

Product Description

The Montem Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles have a collapsible telescopic design which can extend up to 53 inches and fold down to 24 inches. They can easily be attached to any functional hiking pack.

The total package comes with:

• 2 x Trekking poles
• 2 x Rubber tips
• 2 x Carbide tips
• 2 x Mud baskets
• 2 x Snow baskets
• 1 x Carrying clip
• 1 x Carrying bag

Features

I had the pleasure of recently taking the Montem 3K hiking poles out in the field to do a review. Overall, they are an excellent pair of hiking poles that will cover most hikers needs.

They come with all the standard bits and pieces that you need for hiking in most conditions, and on nearly all terrain. The main pole has a tungsten-carbide tip, and they are tough and perform admirable out in the field.

As mentioned, the poles come with all the standard attachments you would need for year round hiking. They are also made from strong and durable materials to keep you good in the tougher conditions year round.

The handles are made from cork, and they feel good when using them. Cork helps to keep your hands cool and dry, great for when the sun is splitting the tress on a hot day. The handle also comes with safety straps which are functional and perform well should you need them.

Both adults and children can use these poles as they adjust from 55 inches long, down to just 24 inches. This means they are adjustable to suit most peoples height.

The shaft is made from carbon fiber which is tough and strong. This construction enables good stability and provides excellent strength when needed.

The further benefit is that the carbon fiber poles are very lightweight, so they are comfortable when in use and not a burden to carry in your pack. Each pole weighs only 7.8 ounces (221 gm), so they are in the very comfortable range in terms of weight.

Summary

Overall, we were very impressed with the Montem Ultralight 3K Carbion Fiber Hiking poles. Good for hiking on multiple surface types and over varying terrain, in a wide range of conditions. They are lightweight, durable and comfortable to use.

They also come very well packaged in their carry bag. The only downside is that they are on the pricier end of the price spectrum, however they do offer good value for money and you should get a lot of great use from them.

Read the full review.

5. Trail Buddy Poles

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Trail Buddy Hiking Poles Features Summary:

• Constructed using tough aircraft grade aluminum
• Lightweight and strong
• Adjustable from 24.5 to 54 inches via the poles lever-locks
• Cork handles are comfortable in both hot and cold temperatures; moisture-wicking, and mold to the shape of your hand.
• Handstraps are padded to avoid chafing your skin
• Available in a wide range of colours
• Poles also come with a carrying bag, 2 pairs rubber tips , 1 pair connectors, mud baskets, and snow baskets (snow baskets for light snowshoeing only, NOT for skiing)

Best Uses: Day hiking, trekking, hiking in snow, snow shoeing, leisure walking

Product Description

Trail Buddy hiking Poles are our top budget hiking poles option as they come in at such a competitive price! They are a great choice for average level hiking across the year.

The two poles come in a nice pack with lots of nice add-on’s and features. They also have a huge amount of user review’s, we’re talking thousands, with a really great overall score.

Features

These poles are constructed using aircraft grade aluminum which first and foremost makes them very tough. They are made using aluminum 7075 as opposed to 6061, which is typically used in hiking poles. Now, we can’t claim to know the exact differences in the material make-up, but suffice it to say, the main point is that they are lightweight at 9.75 oz.

Being lightweight is not only practical in terms of hiking, but is also very handy when you need to take them with you on your hiking adventures. For example, they won’t add a lot of weight in a bag on a plane.

Also, as they collapse down neatly, they also won’t take up much space either. They collapse to 24.5 inches, but can also be taken fully apart and they then go down in size to just 21 inches.

These poles are adjustable so can easily be adjusted to your desired height. The poles are secure using the lever locks which are easy to use. They also have twist locks which further helps to ensure you get a strong and sturdy pole when you finish your height adjustments,

The poles comes with some very nice extras which are easy to add to the main poles. There are two snow baskets, two mud baskets and 4 rubber tips which can be removed if you just want to use them with no tips. They also come with a handy and functional carry bag.

The handles are made from cork which is both comfortable and functional. Cork is definitely our favorite handle material. The handles mold to the shape of your hands in both hot and cold conditions, and they also wick sweat away from your hands too, keeping them dry. They also come with padded straps if you like to use them when you hike.

Summary

The Trail Buddy hiking poles are a very functional and comfortable set of poles which are easy to use. They have all the nice features you would want in a pair of hiking poles, and they all work well with minimal fuss.

These poles are available at a very competitive price. Now, normally, this would be a bit of a flag to possibly indicate that the quality may not be as good as you might want. However, the sheer amount of positive user reviews and the high average score makes us hold back on that assumption. There are a lot of hikers who are clearly very satisfied with them!

6. BAFX Products – Anti Shock

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BASF Products Hiking Poles Features Summary:

• Expand from 26.5″ to 53.25″
• Each pole weighs 12.4 Oz (With tips)
• For people from 3’6″ to 6’4″
• Durable lightweight aluminum constructions
• Twist lock locking mechanism
• Rubber tips for pavement
• Carbide tips for gravel, hard packed dirt or ice
• Mud disc for sand, mud or snow
• Comfortable ergonomic grips & wrist straps
• Built in anti-shock feature (can be disabled)

Best Uses: Day hiking, trekking, hiking in snow, leisure walking

Product Description

BAFX Products Anti-Shock Trekking Poles are another excellent budget hiking poles option, again coming in at a competitive price! They are perfect for hiking in almost any terrain including, mountain trails, grassland, snow, and rocks.

Two poles are provided in a two-pack design so you could use one while your partner uses the other one which makes it convenient when hiking in pairs.

Features

These poles are made from aircraft grade aluminum which makes them very durable, but at only 12 ounces, it also means they are very lightweight and easy to carry. This helps when you are transporting them and ensures that they are not so heavy that they hinder you as you walk.

The length is adjustable so regardless of your height you can use them for support during walks and hikes. This is important as using poles at the wrong height not only makes walking more difficult, it can be dangerous if you are using the pole for support.

To help reduce the pressure on your elbow joints when you are hiking, the poles have anti-shock springs which cushion the impact each time you place the pole on the ground. On long hikes, this can prevent you having to walk with painful elbows for hours.

A secure grip is all-important when hiking with poles, so the ergonomic handles will help to achieve this. This reduces sweat, making them more comfortable, and reduces the chances of them slipping.

Summary

This is a pair of hiking poles that make it as comfortable as possible for any hiker to walk across different surfaces. Comfort is further enhanced with ergonomic grips for your hands, an adjustable length to accommodate any height, plus interior springs to reduce the impact on elbows.

As mentioned at the start, at a very competitive price, you need to set your expectations accordingly. They are great for average hiking use, but may not perform under pressure as som of the others listed here.

Conclusion

The four sets of hiking poles we have reviewed are all high-quality products that will help anyone as they hike or walk, whether that is for a short or a long distance.

They’re all very durable, have attachments to adapt the poles for different surfaces, and they can all be adjusted to accommodate hikers of various heights.

The other feature which they all have is excellent handles which are comfortable, and more importantly provide a secure grip, which is a major factor in relation to one’s safety when hiking on difficult terrain or on steep inclines.

All the poles listed here are excellent though. They have all the features that any set of hiking poles should have in terms of comfort, stability and safety, plus the added touch of the carry case can be a nice to have.

They are all great value for money and are ideal hiking poles for both experienced hikers and those who’ve just taken up this very enjoyable pastime.

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