The Best Trekking Poles

Buying Guide

A brisk hike can be good for the soul. It can also be good for the body. But if you spend significant time on the trail, you probably already know that it can wear on your joints. That’s where trekking poles come in.

With the right set of poles on hand, you can tackle even the most challenging terrain with ease. They’ll help you with stability and balance on those extreme hills, as well as let you dig into muddy areas for traction. But with so many trekking poles on the market, it can be tough to know exactly which set to choose.

The build of your trekking poles is the most important feature. Not only will a well-built set of poles last longer, but it will also give you more stability when you’re using it. You’ll find many of the best-built poles are made from aluminum, but not all aluminum is created equal. Look for high-quality aluminum, similar to what’s used in boats and airplanes, for best results.

The height of your poles is also a factor. Pay close attention to the measurements. It may help to find a pair that are adjustable. If you choose this option, though, make sure the poles lock in place and stay that way to avoid having them slip once you’ve started walking.

• Durability and support can often be traced back to the material used to make the poles. But make sure you aren’t sacrificing portability for sturdiness. A heavy pole won’t be comfortable to carry around or lift while you’re hiking. It might also start to strain on your wrist and elbow, defeating the purpose of using trekking poles.
• Some trekking poles can fold up to easily tuck into luggage and other items. If you plan to carry them along with you, this can be a valuable feature to have.
• When you’re hiking for substantial periods of time, the handles can become uncomfortable. Many poles have cork handles to keep your hands comfortable.
• A wrist strap will ensure you keep your grip on your poles while you hike. Look at the design of the wrist strap to make sure it will be comfortable during long hauls.
• Many poles come with accessories. If they don’t, you may need to purchase them separately. One of those accessories is baskets, which fit onto the end of your poles to keep them from sinking into the ground.
• If you’re looking for trekking poles to help reduce strain on your joints while you’re hiking, shock absorption is especially important. A pole made from high-quality aluminum material can help you with that.