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10 Best Walking Poles

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Leki Makalu FX Carbon, Black/Orange/Natural Carbon

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,309
Adjustability
Weight
Adjustability
Fantastic quality with a solid yet lightweight feel; quick and easy to adjust, although the provided instructions could be clearer.
Weight
Lightweight and easy to pack away and reassemble, these poles are perfect for trekking enthusiasts.

The Leki Makalu Fx Carbon Poles offer a durable and lightweight option for trekking enthusiasts. Made from carbon fiber, these poles are strong yet light, making them ideal for long hikes or walks where weight is a concern. The adjustable length of 110-130 cm ensures that users of varying heights can find a comfortable fit, and the adjustability also allows for optimal performance on different terrains.

The grip is designed for comfort, which is crucial during extended use. The locking mechanism is reliable, adding to the safety and stability of the poles when in use. The tips are designed to provide good traction, enhancing stability on various surfaces. However, at 635 grams, these poles are slightly heavier compared to some other high-end models, which might be a consideration for ultra-light hikers. Additionally, while the carbon fiber construction is robust, it might not be as forgiving as aluminum in extremely rough conditions.

The poles are ranked well among trekking poles and have received positive customer reviews, indicating general satisfaction. These poles are suitable for year-round multi-sport use, offering a balance of durability, comfort, and adjustability.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,309
Adjustability
Weight
Adjustability
Fantastic quality with a solid yet lightweight feel; quick and easy to adjust, although the provided instructions could be clearer.
Weight
Lightweight and easy to pack away and reassemble, these poles are perfect for trekking enthusiasts.
#2

TheFitLife Carbon Fibre Trekking Poles - Collapsible and Telescopic Walking Poles, 2-Pack, Ultra Light, Extendable, Best Walking Sticks for Traveling Camping Hiking Mountaineering (Blue)

Rating
9.7
Adjustability
Grip
Weight
Adjustability
Excellent walking poles that are light and easy to adjust, with clips that never collapse even under pressure.
Grip
The cork grips and ribbed foam section offer comfort and versatility, especially on varied terrains.
Weight
Super lightweight and warm to the touch, these poles stand up to daily hikes without wear or breakage.
Locking Mechanism
Excellent walking poles that are light and easy to adjust, with clips that never collapse even under pressure.
Tip
Various rubber tips provide excellent grip, particularly on wet pavements, enhancing their practicality.

TheFitLife Carbon Fibre Trekking Poles offer a robust solution for those seeking versatile and lightweight walking poles. Constructed from 100% carbon fiber, these poles are known for their sturdiness and ability to reduce strain on your knees, legs, and feet. Weighing only 0.44 lbs per pole, they are ultra-light, making them easy to maneuver on various terrains, whether you're crossing rivers or navigating rocky trails. The flip lock mechanism allows easy adjustability, extending from 24 to 53 inches, accommodating a wide range of users from children to adults, regardless of height.

Comfort is a significant highlight due to the ergonomic anti-slip cork grips, which help manage sweat and provide a secure hold. The adjustable wrist straps add convenience, especially on steep slopes, while the EVA foam sleeves offer additional grip options during challenging hikes.

The inclusion of rubber tips significantly enhances traction on slippery surfaces like mud and snow, adding to their versatility. However, while the carbon fiber material offers durability, it might not be as affordable as poles made from aluminum, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

These poles come with a waterproof carrying bag for easy transport and storage, adding to their practicality for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. The extensive range of accessories included further broadens their utility across various terrains and conditions.

In terms of drawbacks, while the telescopic design is convenient, some users might prefer foldable poles for even more compact storage. Additionally, while the grips are comfortable, cork may wear out faster than other materials if used extensively in wet conditions.

Ideal for both novice and experienced hikers, these poles balance strength, weight, and comfort, making them a strong contender for anyone looking to enhance their hiking experience with reliable and supportive equipment.

Rating
9.7
Adjustability
Grip
Weight
Adjustability
Excellent walking poles that are light and easy to adjust, with clips that never collapse even under pressure.
Grip
The cork grips and ribbed foam section offer comfort and versatility, especially on varied terrains.
Weight
Super lightweight and warm to the touch, these poles stand up to daily hikes without wear or breakage.
Locking Mechanism
Excellent walking poles that are light and easy to adjust, with clips that never collapse even under pressure.
Tip
Various rubber tips provide excellent grip, particularly on wet pavements, enhancing their practicality.
#3

Trekology Walking Poles Women TREK-Z, Nordic Walking Poles for Men, Hiking Sticks for Men, Nordic Walking Sticks for Hiking Poles for Women Trekking Poles for Women Foldable Walking Stick Hiking Gear

Rating
9.1
Adjustability
Grip
Weight
Adjustability
Folding up and using these poles is straightforward, with clear instructions and easy length adjustments.
Grip
The cork hand grips provide superior comfort compared to foam grips, making a significant difference for those with chronic back pain.
Weight
Impressively well-made and lightweight, these poles feel slightly lighter than more expensive options while packing down to a much shorter length.

The Trekology Walking Poles, part of the TREK-Z line, are designed to enhance the walking experience for both men and women, making them ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. The poles are crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, providing a robust and durable construction, suitable for rough terrains and supporting heavier weights. This makes them particularly advantageous for users seeking stability and support in diverse environments. The ergonomic design includes EVA foam grips that effectively wick away sweat, making them comfortable for extended use, while the cork-colored grip adds an extra touch of style.

One of the standout features is their compact and foldable design, collapsing to just 38 cm. This makes them easy to carry in backpacks or luggage, a plus for travelers and seniors seeking convenience without sacrificing functionality. The poles come with a height adjustability range of 20 cm, utilizing a flip lock technology, allowing for quick adjustments and a secure fit, catering to users of varying heights.

Weighing less than an average umbrella, these poles are lightweight, at 294g for the 100-120cm version, reducing fatigue during long hikes or everyday use. The poles also feature enhanced metal caps for added joint security, which is a noteworthy improvement over many carbon fiber alternatives. However, the poles' metal construction, while strong, may not absorb shock as well as some carbon fiber options, potentially leading to more hand fatigue over prolonged periods. Additionally, while they perform well in most conditions, the lack of specified tip variety might require additional accessories for specialized terrains like snow or ice.

Rating
9.1
Adjustability
Grip
Weight
Adjustability
Folding up and using these poles is straightforward, with clear instructions and easy length adjustments.
Grip
The cork hand grips provide superior comfort compared to foam grips, making a significant difference for those with chronic back pain.
Weight
Impressively well-made and lightweight, these poles feel slightly lighter than more expensive options while packing down to a much shorter length.

Buying Guide for the Best Walking Poles

Walking poles are essential tools for hikers and trekkers, providing stability, reducing strain on joints, and enhancing overall balance. Choosing the right walking poles involves understanding various specifications that can affect your comfort and performance during your outdoor adventures. Here are the key specs to consider when selecting walking poles and how to navigate them to find the best fit for your needs.
MaterialThe material of walking poles is crucial as it affects their weight, durability, and cost. Common materials include aluminum and carbon fiber. Aluminum poles are generally more affordable and durable, making them suitable for rugged terrains and heavy use. Carbon fiber poles are lighter and can reduce fatigue during long hikes, but they are typically more expensive and can be less durable. If you prioritize lightweight gear for long treks, carbon fiber might be the best choice. For more durability and budget-friendly options, aluminum is a solid pick.
AdjustabilityAdjustability refers to the ability to change the length of the poles. Adjustable poles are versatile and can be tailored to different terrains and user heights. They usually come in telescoping or folding designs. Telescoping poles are easy to adjust and are great for varying inclines, while folding poles are compact and convenient for travel. If you hike on diverse terrains or share poles with others, adjustable poles are ideal. Fixed-length poles are lighter and simpler but lack versatility, making them suitable for consistent terrain and personal use.
GripThe grip of walking poles affects comfort and control. Common grip materials include cork, foam, and rubber. Cork grips are comfortable, absorb sweat, and conform to your hand over time, making them great for long hikes. Foam grips are soft and lightweight, providing good comfort but can wear out faster. Rubber grips are durable and provide a firm hold, ideal for wet conditions. Choose cork for comfort and long hikes, foam for lightweight and short treks, and rubber for durability and wet environments.
WeightWeight is an important factor as it influences how easy the poles are to carry and use. Lightweight poles reduce fatigue and are easier to handle, especially on long hikes. Heavier poles can offer more stability and durability but may cause more strain over time. If you plan on long-distance hiking or trekking, opt for lighter poles to conserve energy. For shorter hikes or more rugged terrain, heavier poles might provide the stability you need.
Locking MechanismThe locking mechanism secures the pole at the desired length. Common types include lever locks, twist locks, and push-button locks. Lever locks are quick and easy to adjust, providing reliable security. Twist locks are lighter but can be less reliable in extreme conditions. Push-button locks are simple and effective but may add weight. If you need quick adjustments and reliability, lever locks are ideal. Twist locks are suitable for lightweight needs, and push-button locks offer simplicity and ease of use.
TipThe tip of the walking pole affects traction and durability. Carbide tips are durable and provide excellent grip on various surfaces, including rocks and ice. Rubber tips are quieter and better for paved surfaces but wear out faster. Some poles come with interchangeable tips for different terrains. If you hike on mixed terrains, carbide tips are versatile and durable. For urban or paved trails, rubber tips offer a quieter experience.