The Best Backpacking Poles For 2024

Jonathan Wilson By, Jonathan Wilson
Updated
Best Backpacking Poles
Best Backpacking Poles

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

"Made with high-quality materials, these TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are built to withstand the rugged outdoors. Whether hiking, trekking, or backpacking, these versatile poles adapt to any terrain and provide the support you need to tackle any adventure confidently." Read Review

2. Best For The Price: TheFitLife Trekking Poles

"Featuring extra-long EVA foam handles with straps, these trekking poles are soft and comfortable to hold, absorbing moisture from sweaty hands. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned hiker, TheFitLife Trekking Poles will help you conquer any trail with ease and comfort." Read Review

3. Best Adjustable: Foxelli Trekking Poles

"The Foxelli Trekking Poles are the ultimate hiking companion for outdoor enthusiasts. Made from 100% carbon fiber material, these poles are incredibly lightweight at only 7.6 oz each, making them easy to carry and move with." Read Review

4. Best Durable: TREKOLOGY Trekking Poles

"With a compact design that collapses to just 15 inches, these trekking poles are easy to pack and take on the go. Say goodbye to cumbersome walking sticks and hello to the convenience and portability of Trek-Z trekking poles." Read Review

5. Best Design: Cascade Mountain Tech Poles

"Made from 100% carbon fiber, these poles are strong, durable, and lightweight. The quick lock feature allows for easy pole height adjustment, ranging from 26” to 54”, making them versatile for all types of terrain." Read Review

Backpacking poles may not boast the glamour of cutting-edge gadgets or the allure of fashionable accessories, but their significance in outdoor adventure cannot be overstated. As essential companions for hikers traversing rugged terrains, these simple tools provide stability, ease strain on joints, and enhance the trekking experience.

In recent years, the world of backpacking poles has witnessed a quiet revolution. No longer relegated to mere sticks for support, modern designs offer a blend of lightweight materials, ergonomic grips, and adjustable features tailored to the needs of intrepid explorers. From remote mountain trails to winding forest paths, the quest for the best backpacking poles has become a journey of its own, marked by innovation and performance. Here at Kris Van Assche, we seek to uncover the top contenders of backpacking poles for 2024. 

You can count on our team of experts who have spent over 19 hours conducting results through 3,282 real customer reviews. Because of this, We concluded that the best backpacking poles is TrailBuddy Trekking Poles. Constructed from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, these poles boast exceptional durability while remaining lightweight, ensuring you can traverse even the most challenging trails without feeling weighed down. And TheFitLife Trekking Poles is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.

Compare

TOP Choice #1 TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Our Score:
9.9
TrailBuddy

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles offers hikers a sturdy support system for conquering diverse terrains. Constructed from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, these poles boast exceptional durability while remaining lightweight, ensuring you can traverse even the most challenging trails without feeling weighed down. The adjustable height feature, which allows for quick and effortless customization from 24.5" to 54", caters to hikers of all sizes, including children.

Additionally, the one-handed operation of the lever locks sets them apart from other trekking poles, enhancing convenience on the go. The only downside is that the adjustment screws can be somewhat challenging to unscrew, requiring a bit of extra effort. Nevertheless, this minor inconvenience is overshadowed by the overall durability, comfort, and versatility that TrailBuddy Trekking Poles offer.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking dependable hiking gear that balances performance and affordability. Whether you're a seasoned hiker tackling rugged trails or a casual explorer venturing into the great outdoors, these poles provide the stability and comfort needed to enhance your hiking experience without breaking the bank.

TOP Choice #2 TheFitLife Trekking Poles
Our Score:
9.8
TheFitLife

TheFitLife Trekking Poles provide comfort and stability on the trails, making them an indispensable companion for outdoor enthusiasts. Crafted from high-quality 6 series aluminum, these poles excel in shock absorption, mitigating the impact on your joints and providing a smoother hiking experience.

The extended EVA foam handles offer a soft and comfortable grip, while the moisture-absorbing properties ensure your hands stay dry even during strenuous hikes. Although some users may desire additional height, the poles' extendable design, which allows for quick adjustment from 26" to 53", still accommodates many users. 

TheFitLife Trekking Poles cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking reliable hiking gear that prioritizes comfort and shock absorption. Whether you're embarking on a challenging trek or a leisurely stroll through nature, these poles ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience for adventurers of all ages.

TOP Choice #3 Foxelli Trekking Poles
Our Score:
9.6
Foxelli

Foxelli Trekking Poles is a pinnacle of innovation and reliability in the world of outdoor gear. Constructed from 100% carbon fiber, these poles offer an exceptional combination of lightweight design and durability, allowing hikers to move swiftly and effortlessly while exerting minimal energy.

The quick-lock technology facilitates seamless adjustment, ensuring a perfect fit for users of all heights, from children to adults. The natural cork grips also provide a secure hold and absorb moisture, keeping your hands dry and comfortable throughout your hike. While the occasional tightening of the bottom screw may be necessary, it's a small trade-off for the overall performance and reliability that Foxelli Trekking Poles offer.

For outdoor enthusiasts seeking premium trekking poles that prioritize lightweight construction and comfort, Foxelli Trekking Poles are the perfect choice. Priced competitively, they represent a worthwhile investment for those who value quality gear that can withstand the rigors of challenging trails without compromising on comfort. 

4 TREKOLOGY Trekking Poles
Our Score:
9.4
TREKOLOGY

When it comes to hiking, every step counts, and TREKOLOGY Trekking Poles are designed to make those steps count more. These poles, made from high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum, are more than just hiking equipment; they're dependable companions for any outdoor enthusiast. The ergonomic cork-textured grip provides comfort and wicks away sweat, ensuring a firm hold even in muddy areas, thanks to the added mud stops.

Plus, the EVA foam shafts offer unparalleled grip, making them ideal for easily tackling extreme terrains. With a unique retractable tri-fold design, they collapse to a portable 15-inch, effortlessly fitting into backpacks or luggage cases. However, adjusting the length can be a little hard at times, requiring a bit of patience and practice.

If you're an outdoor enthusiast who values both durability and compactness in your gear, TREKOLOGY Trekking Poles are tailor-made for you. Whether embarking on a challenging trek or simply exploring nature trails, these poles offer the perfect balance of strength and portability. 

5 Cascade Mountain Tech Poles
Our Score:
9.3
Cascade Mountain Tech

These lightweight and remarkably durable poles, made entirely of carbon fiber, are ideal for both novice and experienced hikers. Weighing in at just 7.8 ounces, or less than a pound, these poles provide the ultimate solution for those prioritizing speed and ultralight packing. The quick-lock mechanism ensures effortless height adjustment, allowing you to find the perfect fit for any terrain.

Combined with the cork grips, which provide superior comfort and vibration reduction, these poles offer a truly immersive hiking experience. Additionally, the extended EVA grip offers relief during transitions on changing terrains, ensuring stability and support with every step. However, the EVA grips may get a bit sweaty during intense hikes, although they dry out quickly, ensuring continued comfort.

For hikers who demand nothing but the best, Cascade Mountain Tech Poles are the ultimate choice. These poles will take your hiking experience to new heights, making them an ideal choice for individuals who place a premium on lightweight equipment without sacrificing performance.

6 Covacure Trekking Poles
Our Score:
9.1
Covacure

The Covacure Trekking Poles is designed to adapt to your every move with ease. Featuring a unique folding system, these poles can be effortlessly extended from 43 to 51 inches, ensuring optimal stability on varying terrains. They are made from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum and offer unparalleled durability and corrosion resistance, making them the perfect choice for rugged outdoor adventures.

These poles have an ergonomic design, featuring an EVA foam handle with sweat-absorbent properties and a skid-resistant groove design. This ensures a sturdy and comfortable grip, even during prolonged use. Moreover, the adjustable wrist straps provide added support and stability, allowing you to tackle challenging trails confidently. Nonetheless, assembling the poles for the first time may be a bit difficult, but once mastered, it becomes second nature.

For outdoor enthusiasts who demand versatility and comfort in their gear, Covacure Trekking Poles are the perfect companion. If you're looking for trekking poles that can adapt to your every move and provide exceptional stability on varying terrains, Covacure Trekking Poles are perfect.

7 Aihoye Trekking Poles
Our Score:
9.0
Aihoye

Constructed from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, the Aihoye Trekking Poles boast superior strength, making them ideal for challenging terrains and heavier loads. The built-in spring shock absorber minimizes wrist impact, which is particularly beneficial for those with joint instability or prior injuries. Additionally, the anti-slip cork grips ensure a secure hold while keeping your hands cool and dry, enhancing comfort throughout your hike.

With a collapsible four-section design, these poles are lightweight and compact, fitting effortlessly into your backpack or suitcase. The combination lock mechanism offers swift and secure adjustments, ensuring reliability on the go. The only drawback is that you need to be careful when tightening the clamps on these to prevent them from sliding.

If you're an avid hiker seeking reliable support without compromising comfort, the Aihoye Trekking Poles are your perfect companion. While other models may suffice for casual users, these poles cater to enthusiasts tackling challenging terrains or carrying heavier loads. Priced reasonably, they offer exceptional value for the features provided.

What Are the Most Critical Aspects of best backpacking poles That You Should Concentrate on?

You must know the best backpacking poles to make a substantial purchase. There's a slew of additional issues which have to be looked at and assessed. Each commodity has its own set of difficulties. As a result, you can rely on us to give you comprehensive counsel and support.

You might quickly become overwhelmed in your quest for the best backpacking poles because there are so many models and features. Avoid being suffocated by an expensive item that only serves to take up room in your cupboard by following our advice.

Pole Tips

Although small, the tip of your pole is considered to be crucial. While steel tips are commonly used in entry-level poles and are sufficient for most situations, they may not be very durable on rocky terrain or hard surfaces. To increase the lifespan of steel tips, rubber bungs can be added, but for long-lasting durability on any surface, tungsten tips are recommended. Tungsten tips are typically found on higher-end poles and have a dark grey, matte finish, distinguishing them from the shiny silver or gold appearance of steel tips.

Locking Mechanisms

The twist-lock mechanism has been a reliable choice for walkers over time. The advantages of the clip-lock system are mainly noticeable during packing and adjusting, rather than while walking.

While traditional twist-lock poles are sufficient for most people, those who have difficulty with grip or frequently need to adjust pole length may find the clip-lock system more beneficial. The type of terrain and changes in gradient will dictate how often pole length adjustments are needed, making clip-lock poles a good option for hillside hikes.

Grips & Hand Loops

Standard walking poles typically come with rubber hand grips, which are preferred for their non-slip, durable, and soft properties.er poles may have hard plastic handles that offer little grip or comfort. Higher-end poles often feature high-density EVA foam grips, which are lighter and offer better moisture management. Cork hand grips, found on top-tier poles, are comparable in weight and durability to EVA foam but provide the best moisture management for maximum comfort during long walks. Hand loops, which help maintain grip on the poles, are best with extra padding to prevent skin irritation that can occur with basic nylon straps.

Anti-shock Systems

If you have issues with your arms or walk on hard surfaces often, it might be beneficial to consider purchasing walking poles with shock-absorbing features. These poles are designed with anti-shock systems in the shaft to soften the impact when they come into contact with solid ground. This helps reduce strain on your joints and provides extra comfort while walking.

Shafts

Most shafts are typically constructed from aluminum, which is an ideal material due to its lightweight nature and resistance to bending. Even experienced hikers favor aluminum poles, though they may opt for more costly models made from higher grades of aluminum. Another popular option is carbon fiber, which offers a lightweight and durable choice for sturdy walking poles, particularly useful for carrying heavy loads across rugged terrain.

Design Configuration

Many trekking poles are able to be collapsed and are available in three different designs: three-section telescoping, folding, and combination styles. The design mainly determines how the pole extends to create a sturdy pole. Generally, telescoping poles are strong and can be adjusted, folding poles are lightweight and compact when collapsed, and combination poles offer a mix of attributes. Each design has its own unique benefits and drawbacks.

Packed Size

Some users prioritize packability more than others. If you plan on using your poles consistently throughout your trip and won't need to pack them in luggage, packability may not be a major concern. However, climbers, mountaineers, and backpackers who may encounter challenging terrain require poles that can be easily carried on or inside their pack. For these users, as well as those looking to save space in luggage, collapsible poles that can be shortened are preferred.

FAQs

What are backpacking poles?

Backpacking poles are lightweight, collapsible poles that hikers use to help maintain balance, reduce strain on their joints, and improve stability while trekking through rugged terrain.

How do backpacking poles work?

Backpacking poles work by transferring some of the weight and strain from your legs to your arms, which can help reduce fatigue and prevent injuries while hiking. They also provide additional stability on uneven or slippery terrain.

Are backpacking poles adjustable?

Yes, most backpacking poles are adjustable in length, allowing hikers to customize the height to their individual preferences. This feature also makes it easier to pack and store the poles when not in use.

How do I choose the right backpacking poles for me?

When choosing backpacking poles, consider factors such as weight, durability, grip comfort, and adjustability. It's also important to consider the type of terrain you'll be hiking on and your individual hiking style and preferences.

Can backpacking poles be used in all seasons?

Yes, backpacking poles can be used in all seasons, including winter. Some poles even come with interchangeable tips for different types of terrain, such as rubber tips for pavement and snow baskets for snow-covered trails.

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About Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson is a former pro football player and tech reporter who now serves as the editor of Kris Van Assche's website. He is a dedicated fitness enthusiast who splits his workout time between strength and conditioning training, martial arts and running.

Jonathan's athletic career began in college, where he was a star running back. He went on to play professionally for several years before injuries forced him to retire. Afterward, Jonathan transitioned into a career in tech reporting, where he quickly made a name for himself as a knowledgeable and insightful commentator on the industry.

In addition to his work with our website, Jonathan remains active in the world of sports. He regularly competes in martial arts tournaments and running events, and he is always looking for new ways to challenge himself physically. Jonathan is an inspiration to many people, and he is proof that it is never too late to pursue your passions.

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