Poles save your knees on descents, help you balance across creeks and turn steep climbs into a four-wheel-drive affair. Here are our favorites for backpacking, trail running and hikers on a budget.
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Our picks at a glance
| Product | Best for | Price | Weight (pair) | Material | Style | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon | Best overall | $190 | 15.7 oz | Carbon | Folding + adjustable | 14.5–47.5 in |
| Black Diamond Trail Back | Best value | $100 | 18.3 oz | Aluminum | Telescoping | 25–55.5 in |
| Leki Cressida FX Carbon | Best women’s pole | $230 | 16.4 oz | Carbon | Folding + adjustable | 16.5–47.8 in |
| Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z | Best for trail running | $220 | 8.7 oz | Carbon | Fixed-length folding | Fixed (sizes to 42.5 in) |
| Trekology Trek-Z 2.0 | Best budget pole | $56 | 19.1 oz | Aluminum | Folding + adjustable | 14.75–47.3 in |
1. MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon — Best overall
A folding pole with real length adjustment and a sturdy metal lock. It handles everything from day hikes to long trips.
Specs: Weight (pair): 15.7 oz · Material: Carbon · Style: Folding + adjustable · Length: 14.5–47.5 in · List price: $190
Pros:
- Comfortable grips
- Packs small
- Light swing weight
Cons:
- Pricey
- Not the lightest
2. Black Diamond Trail Back — Best value
A simple, tough aluminum pole at a fair price. It’s a great first pair for backpackers who will lean hard on them.
Specs: Weight (pair): 18.3 oz · Material: Aluminum · Style: Telescoping · Length: 25–55.5 in · List price: $100
Pros:
- Durable aluminum
- Handles heavy packs
- Wide length range
Cons:
- Heavy
- Long when collapsed
3. Leki Cressida FX Carbon — Best women’s pole
Designed around women’s hand sizes and heights. The cork grips are some of the most comfortable you’ll find.
Specs: Weight (pair): 16.4 oz · Material: Carbon · Style: Folding + adjustable · Length: 16.5–47.8 in · List price: $230
Pros:
- Ergonomic cork grips sized for smaller hands
- Versatile folding design
- Premium finish
Cons:
- Expensive
- Carbon is less forgiving than aluminum
4. Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z — Best for trail running
Under 9 oz a pair. Runners and fastpackers love how quickly they snap together and stow away.
Specs: Weight (pair): 8.7 oz · Material: Carbon · Style: Fixed-length folding · Length: Fixed (sizes to 42.5 in) · List price: $220
Pros:
- Extremely light
- Folds tiny for running vests
- Efficient push
Cons:
- No length adjustment
- Thinner grips
5. Trekology Trek-Z 2.0 — Best budget pole
A folding aluminum pole that performs well above its price. It’s a smart pick for occasional hikers and travelers.
Specs: Weight (pair): 19.1 oz · Material: Aluminum · Style: Folding + adjustable · Length: 14.75–47.3 in · List price: $56
Pros:
- Low price
- Durable
- Folds compact
Cons:
- Not ultralight
- Limited adjustment
How to choose trekking poles
Folding vs. telescoping
Folding (Z-style) poles pack shortest and suit runners and travelers. Telescoping poles adjust over a wider range and are generally tougher.
Carbon vs. aluminum
Carbon is lighter and damps vibration, but can snap if it’s bent hard. Aluminum bends before breaking, which makes it the safer choice for heavy loads.
Locks
Lever locks are easy to adjust with gloves on. Check that they can be tightened without tools.
Grips
Cork molds to your hand and handles sweat. Foam is lighter and softer. Extended grips let you choke down on steep traverses.
FAQ
How long should trekking poles be?
With the tip on the ground, your elbow should bend about 90°. Shorten them for climbs and lengthen them for descents.
One pole or two?
Two poles give balanced support and are best for backpacking. One pole is fine for casual walks.
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