Hiking poles have been known to relieve knee pressure and deter injuries while hiking. I often carry a pair with me so that I can easily cross rivers, murky waters, or muddy trails. Hiking poles can also prevent people from falling down and getting injured. I know I have been saved by my hiking poles lots of times. The hiking poles that I am going to list are some of the very best that I have ever known. They are very durable, flexible and they work very well.
Best Hiking Poles – Quick Chart
| Hiking Poles | Weight | Material | Lock Type | Grip |
| 1. Cascade Mountain Tech Aluminum Quick Lock Trekking Poles with Cork Grip | 8 oz each | Aluminum | Quick Lock | Cork grip |
| 2. High Trek Premium Ultralight Trekking Poles | Aerospace-grade 7075 aluminum | 8.7 oz each | Quick Lock | EVA handles |
| 3. TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles | 1.32 lbs total | 7 Series Aviation Aluminum Material | Twist lock | Hard Plastic |
| 4. Himal Outdoors 2 PCS Adjustable Travel Hiking Walking Stick Trekking Pole | 600g of 2pcs | Not Available | Flick-lock mechanism | EVA Foam Handle |
| 5. BAFX Products – 2 Pack – Anti Shock Hiking / Walking / Trekking Trail Poles | 12.4 oz each | Aircraft grade aluminum | Twist Lock | Plastic |
| 6. TrailBuddy Trekking Poles | 9.7 oz per pole | Aluminum 7075 | Quick Lock | Cork Grip |
| 7. Cascade Mountain Tech 100% Carbon Fiber Quick Lock Trekking Poles | 7.8 oz each | 100% carbon fiber | Quick Lock | EVA Grip |
| 8. Trekology Hiking Sticks Collapsible Hiking Poles | 9 oz each | Aluminum alloy | Flick-lock mechanism | Cork handle |
| 9. Montem Ultra Strong Hiking / Walking / Trekking Poles | 9.6 oz per pole | Aluminum 7075 | Quick Lock | EVA foam handles |
| 10. Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles | 7.6 oz each | Carbon Fiber | Quick Lock | Cork handle |
| 11. Black Diamond Trail Back Trek Poles Hiking | 13.6 oz | Carbon Fiber | Collapsible | EVA foam grip |
| 12. LEKI Legacy Lite COR-TEC Pole Pair | 1.09 lbs | Aluminium (HTS 6.5) | Aluminum shaft Speedlock2 Lock System | AERGON Cor-Tec Compact Grip |
| 13. Mons Peak IX Tiger Paw Carbon Trekking Poles | 7 oz each | Carbon Fiber | Quick Lock | Cork Grips |
| 14. LEKI Khumbu Lite Trekking Poles | 8 oz each | Aluminum | Quick Lock | Ergonomic cork grip |
| 15. Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Trek Walking Poles | 0.8 lbs | Aluminum | Quick Release | Cork |
How To Choose A Pair Of Hiking Sticks
Types Of Hiking Sticks
Standard Hiking Sticks
Standard hiking poles come in three pieces and the user has to connect them together by inserting them into each other. The user can adjust the length of the two bottom pieces so that he or she can be more comfortable using the hiking stick. There will be a locking mechanism that locks and connects each piece together.
Collapsible Hiking Sticks
This is another three piece hiking stick and the pieces are connected by a wire. In essence, it is a one piece. The item can be collapsed by loosening the wire and if you tighten the wire, the item will become one big stick.
Wooden Hiking Sticks
Wooden hiking sticks are made from wood and these hiking sticks are often just one stick. These do not come in different parts. There are no handles or locking mechanisms. The whole piece is made out of wood. Sometimes, there will be some sort of coating to protect the wood from rain and from water getting into the wood.
Choosing The Locking Mechanism
Twist Lock
Twist lock is what a lot of hiking sticks used to have but not anymore. Basically, you twist the lock so that the pieces will lock into place. This uses a lot of force and takes a lot of time which is why a lot of people do not prefer to use this mechanism anymore.
Clamp Lock
Clamp lock is now very popular. All the person has to do is flip the lock or latch and the lock will close or open. This is very easy and gives the person using the hiking sticks a lot of control. Most hiking sticks will have a clamp lock as this is very effortless, and very intuitive.
Push Button Lock
This is very straight forward as well. Most collapsible hiking sticks will have this lock. You basically lock the hiking sticks when you align the button to the hole. The hole and button will lock the hiking sticks in place. You can then release and collapse the hiking stick when you press the button.
Choosing The Handle Material
Cork
There is no doubt that cork is one of the best materials for a handle. This is very lightweight which is why a lot of people love handles made from this material. This feels good on the hands and provides a comfortable grip. This has water repelling capabilities which a lot of people love. This is a great material that lessens the vibrations produced by the item.
EVA Foam
I love that this material is ideal for hiking stick handles. Handles that are made from EVA foam will often be easy to maintain and easy to clean. This is a great material that lessens the vibrations produced by the impact of the hiking stick to the ground. There are a lot of very durable handles that are made out of EVA foam. It is true that EVA foam is very affordable or that this does not cost a lot of money.
Rubber
If you want an amazing handle, then you should check out hiking stick handles that are made out of rubber. Handles made from rubber will have water repelling capabilities. It is easy to see that rubber does not cost much. Hiking sticks will produce shocks and vibrations but this material will reduce a lot of them. This provides a comfortable grip and this is very nonslip.
Wood
Most wooden hiking sticks will have wood as a handle. There are a lot of people who love wood because this looks good and beautiful. This natural material is very safe to use and will not leach harmful chemicals. Wood is a material that is known for its affordable price.
Choosing The Shaft Material
Aluminum
I love hiking sticks that are made out of aluminum. Aluminum hiking sticks tend to be very lightweight but heavier than composite. These are more affordable than composite though. There are a lot of hiking sticks that are made out of this very affordable material. If you want very cheap and very inexpensive hiking sticks, then you will obviously get hiking sticks made from aluminum.
Composite
Composite hiking sticks are made out of carbon fiber. Carbon fiber is very lightweight and lighter than aluminum. Usually, a carbon fiber hiking weighs around 8 ounces while aluminum will have 10.4 ounces. This is the weight that I see these hiking sticks have often. The drawback is that carbon fiber is not as durable as aluminum. These tend to splinter and break rather than bend. So once they break, they are no longer usable.
Things To Consider
Durability
One of the main things I look for is durability. I have bought and broken so many hiking poles that my main concern is durability because I don’t want to waste money anymore. A lot of things can happen and I often use my hiking poles to prevent slips, falls and such. Unfortunately, I often end up putting a lot of strain and pressure on the poles that I sometimes accidentally break them. So I recommend always look for durable items.
Weight
Weight is very important in terms of hiking. I used to not look at the weight of my hiking poles till I realized that I have more energy when I am hiking without them at times. The weight of the poles can also use up energy. You have to consider the weight of all of your hiking gear. This includes the hiking poles. Unfortunately, the really good and lightweight poles are somewhat expensive.
Anti-Shock
Not all poles have antishock or shock absorbent. Some like antishock and some do not. I think if the hiking pole uses twist lock, it is likely to have some sort of antishock feature. However, if it has a fast lock or clip lock, it is unlikely to have anti shock feature. This is just a matter of preference. I honestly don’t see any difference or feel any difference. Test it out and see if you do.
Price
There are lots of pricey or expensive trekking poles. You do not need expensive ones. There are times when I wish I just bought a few inexpensive ones since I tend to break or lose them. However, if you are going to travel and go on a long trip, it make sense to have expensive hiking poles. There are times when I want to pack very light so I make sure that I have the lightest gear possible which includes that the trekking poles to be lightweight.
Handle
There are lots of different types of handles. You can get EVA, cork, plastic and so on. There is not much difference for me. However, I don’t like the cork grip during the summer or on very hot days. It causes friction on my hands. It is kind of annoying when your hand gets irritated or about to get a wound because of the friction caused by the handle.
Best Hiking Poles – Affordable Hiking Poles
Here are some of the best hiking poles that are under $30.
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1. Cascade Mountain Tech Aluminum Quick Lock Trekking Poles with Cork Grip
Weight: 8 oz each
Material: Aluminum
Lock Type: Quick Lock
Grip: Cork grip
Feature Summary: Aluminum poles provide hikers, walkers, back packers, campers and many more, quick lock will support you during all your adventures, cork grips provide comfort, lower the vibration as you step, and wicks away sweat
Short Review: There are numerous hiking poles that I really like however this is one of my favorites. This is constructed out of “aircraft grade” aluminum that can withstand more force, is highly durable. This comes with cork grips that provides comfort, lower the vibration as you step, and wicks away sweat. This item does the job really well while having a very affordable price tag. One of the first hiking poles that I got with quick locks which makes it really fast or very quick to adjust the height of the pole. You might want to look at the price of this simply because it is really affordable at this time.
2. High Trek Premium Ultralight Trekking Poles
Weight: Aerospace-grade 7075 aluminum
Material: 8.7 oz each
Lock Type: Quick Lock
Grip: EVA handles
Feature Summary: Cork handles are comfy to use in both hot and cold temperatures, provides extra bit of support as they hike through the wilderness, tough aluminum can withstand pressure and impact better than carbon fiber
Short Review: This is an excellent pair of hiking sticks. This is made out of very durable aluminum that is very lightweight also. This comes with cork handles are comfy to use in both hot and cold temperatures, making them perfect for all seasons. It is extremely good. Sturdy items last for quite a long time and it is an attribute I love regarding this item. This also has moisture-wicking material that prevents sweaty hands no matter the temperature outside. This is great for the outdoors and performs very well and this is very versatile as well. If you browse through the the positive consumer reviews, it is simple to see why I like this item.
3. TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles
Weight: 1.32 lbs total
Material: 7 Series Aviation Aluminum Material
Lock Type: Twist lock
Grip: Hard Plastic
Feature Summary: Shock-absorbing effect can strongly reduce damage from the impact force, soft and comfortable, absorbs moisture from sweaty hands and very comfortable to hold, quick lock so you can collapse or extend your poles
Short Review: You will be pretty happy with this particular pair of hiking sticks. This comes with extra long EVA foam handles with straps that is soft and comfortable, absorbs moisture from sweaty hands and very comfortable to hold. This is constructed out of high quality 6 series aluminum material, the shock-absorbing effect can strongly reduce damage from the impact force. The selling price of this item is wonderful that I recommend it all the time. This is quite affordable plus it can relieve knee pressure and prevent falling while in the outdoors. This item is incredibly inexpensive while having plenty of features.
4. Aihoye Hiking Trekking Poles
Weight: 10.8 oz each
Material: Aluminum
Lock Type: Twist Lock
Grip: Plastic And Soft Foam
Feature Summary: Adopts strong and lightweight aircraft grade aluminum material, internal anti-shock spring, which helps to lower the vibration and conserve energy when trekking, lightweight aircraft grade aluminum weighing
Short Review: This pair of outdoor sticks for hiking that you are going to look at is rather amazing. This features ergonomic plastic handle grip, which offers a maximum non-slip, comfortable, natural and warm handhold. This is constructed out of premium quality aviation aluminum which is sturdy, lightweight and easy to adjust. This is pretty unique and this functions much better than most items which is the reason this has a lot of positive consumer feedback. I love the lightweight material this is created out of which makes this very durable.
5. BAFX Products – 2 Pack – Anti Shock Hiking / Walking / Trekking Trail Poles
Weight: 12.4 oz each
Material: Aircraft grade aluminum
Lock Type: Twist Lock
Grip: Plastic
Feature Summary: Ergonomic grips, lightweight aluminum, an extra wide padded wrist strap and an anti shock feature, comes with 2 rubber tips plus 2 spares, poles are made of lightweight 6061 aluminum
Short Review: There are a lot of men and women who love this pair of hiking poles. Many of us always need to know if the item is budget friendly or not. This has a great price tag. The item is as expected and it is very high quality especially when you consider the price. This has a twist lock which I am not a big fan of but it works well so all is good. I am so pleased with this item. A good pair of hiking sticks that is very durable. This remarkable item is one of the finest and first that I have ever bought. I’m sure a lot of people will like this as well.
| Check Out My Other Reviews – winter hiking jacket – hiking belts – mosquito jacket – hiking shoes – hiking backpacks |
Medium Range Hiking Sticks
Here are some of the best hiking poles that are around 40-80 dollars.
6. TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Weight: 9.7 oz per pole
Material: Aluminum 7075
Lock Type: Quick Lock
Grip: Cork Grip
Feature Summary: Walking sticks for hiking are crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, 1 handed lever locks can easily be adjusted, sticks are strong enough to withstand all weather conditions.
Short Review: I can easily state that this is rather good pair of trekking poles. This is constructed out of strong aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, tougher than carbon fiber yet weighing almost 4oz less than your average trekking poles for hiking. This features lever locks can be easily operated with just one hand, which is much easier than the 2-handed twist locks. If you want a high quality item with a very reasonable price tag then this is it. I am certain you will like this for the reason that it can relieve knee pressure and prevent falling while in the outdoors plus the weight is very light also.
7. Cascade Mountain Tech 100% Carbon Fiber Quick Lock Trekking Poles
Weight: 7.8 oz each
Material: 100% carbon fiber
Lock Type: Quick Lock
Grip: EVA Grip
Feature Summary: Lightweight strong pole when focusing speed and ultralight packing, reliable for holding the pole, eva grips provides a light, non-slip grip along with our adjustable wrist strap
Short Review: This pair of trekking poles is outstanding and I love it a whole lot. Another excellent item from Cascade Mountain. This features a quick lock as well and this is made out of carbon fiber. I urge you to consider this high quality item for the reason that this is really good. This is incredibly durable and also superb. I am impressed that this is very low-priced while being incredibly high quality. Ideal item to have for the outdoors because this makes hiking a lot easier. I am very satisfied with this.
8. Trekology Hiking Sticks Collapsible Hiking Poles
Weight: 9 oz each
Material: Aluminum
Lock Type: Flick-lock mechanism
Grip: Cork handle
Short Review: This pair of hiking sticks is one of the finest that you can acquire. This is meant to withstand pressure and impact far superior to carbon fiber poles. This is constructed and engineered with 100% air-space grade 7075 aluminum-same material used on aircrafts and in marine environments, when strength and lighter weights are needed. I want you to know that the positive consumer feedback of this item are right and I am happy that they are. I recommend this high quality item due to the fact this works well and I know a large amount of people who love this. This is easy to collapse as well so you can store it rather quickly. One of the benefits of this item is that this is not complicated at all and very intuitive to use.
9. Montem Ultra Strong Hiking / Walking / Trekking Poles
Weight: 9.6 oz per pole
Material: Aluminum 7075
Lock Type: Quick Lock
Grip: EVA foam handles
Feature Summary: Adjustable quick locks allow you to quickly & easily lengthen the poles, same material used to build airplanes, come with easily storable rubber tip protectors, pole connectors, and mud baskets
Short Review: This pair of hiking poles not only will perform incredibly well, but the effective capacity or abilities of this item is excellent. This features quick locks that allow you to quickly and easily lengthen the poles from 24” to 53” in order to achieve the perfect height for your needs. This is constructed out of aluminum 7075 which is the same material used to build airplanes. There are lots of people who regret buying items that are too complex its no wonder that I love that this is easy to use. This is a good pair that can relieve knee pressure and prevent people from falling down while hiking in the outdoors. This is one of the greatest that is available right now and I find this item to be extremely impressive.
10. Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
Weight: 7.6 oz Each
Material: Carbon Fiber
Lock Type: Quick Lock
Grip: Cork Handle
Feature Summary: Anti-slip natural cork grips absorb sweat and moisture and will keep your hands cool and dry, extra-padded, fully adjustable, breathable wrist straps, heavy-duty accessories and tungsten carbide tips
Short Review: I am confident that this is an unbelievable pair of walking sticks for hiking that you’ll ever find. This features quick-lock technology, this collapsible hiking poles are incredibly easy to use and a breeze to adjust – locking them in place takes only a few seconds. This also features anti-slip natural cork grips absorb sweat and moisture and will keep your hands cool and dry during those challenging long-distance hikes. Whoever designed this item did a fantastic job. This has lots of positive consumer reviews and the construction is very good. Having a great item like this is great for hiking. This is outstanding. The handle is cork which provides a pretty good grip and the body is made out of carbon fiber that is very strong and durable.
| Check Out My Other Reviews – hiking boots for kids – hydration bladder backpack – backpacking wire saws – camping utensils – travel adapter |
High End Hiking Sticks
Expensive hiking sticks.
11. Black Diamond Trail Back Trek Poles Hiking
Weight: 13.6 Ounces
Material: High strength thin-wall aluminum tubing
Lock Type: Collapsible
Grip: EVA foam grip
Feature Summary: Z-pole fixed length construction with speed-cone deployment, incredibly lightweight collapsible pole: 150 grams/pole (120cm), lightweight EVA foam grip and grip extension with breathable, moisture-wicking strap
Short Review: This pair of hiking poles is amongst the very best that I know of. This is very resilient. This features Z-pole fixed length construction with speed-cone deployment and comes with lightweight EVA foam grip and grip extension with breathable, moisture-wicking strap. Resilience should be a concern for the reason that items that break down will cost you more money. Black Diamond makes very high quality trekking poles that are absolutely amazing. They are really good, top of the line. The drawback is that that price is pretty high. This pair is one of the best that I like from Black Diamond. The grip feels very comfortable and the poles feel very durable. A great set that will lasts for a very long time.
12. LEKI Legacy Lite COR-TEC Pole Pair
Weight: 1.09 lbs
Material: Aluminium (HTS 6.5)
Lock Type: Aluminum shaft Speedlock2 Lock System
Grip: AERGON Cor-Tec Compact Grip
Feature Summary: COR-TEC grip material is 80% natural ground cork for a more durable, biomechanical design, LEKI grips keeps wrist in neutral position and provides more efficient pole plants, efficient wicking and fast drying; adjusts and secures strap adjustment without buckles.
Short Review: If you are looking for an outstanding pair of walking sticks for hiking, then this is an exceptional choice to try. LEKI is an amazing company that creates amazing hiking sticks. The hiking sticks that they make are very beautiful and durable. When I open the box and look at the hiking sticks, there is just this aura of high status or high quality that comes out of them. The item is exceptionally easy to use and easier to lock. I know that you will love this item and I find this item to be incredibly amazing. This item has plenty of positive customer reviews which should provide you with the info you need before you acquire one.
13. Mons Peak IX Tiger Paw Carbon Trekking Poles
Weight: 7 oz each
Material: Carbon Fiber
Lock Type: Quick Lock
Grip: Cork Grips
Feature Summary: made of lightweight and super strong 100% carbon fiber engineered for trekking hiking, natural cork grip with EVA grip extension contoured dimpled palm grip with nylon adjustable straps provide firm grasp in any situation, telescoping tubes retract to compact
Short Review: There are a lot of people that really like this pair of backpacking poles. This is constructed out of lightweight and Super strong 100% carbon fiber engineered for trekking hiking snowshoeing and also as walking sticks. This features natural cork grip with EVA grip extension contoured dimpled palm grip with nylon adjustable straps provide firm grasp in any situation. This seems to be a pretty new company and this hiking pole is pretty good. A very good item to have if you love to hike. There are many qualities I love about this. It is very durable, easy to grip and feels good to hold. This is a multipurpose outdoor item that makes hiking more fun. Comes with additional accessories also.
14. LEKI Khumbu Lite Trekking Poles
Weight: 9 oz each
Material: Aluminum
Lock Type: Quick Lock
Grip: Ergonomic cork grip
Feature Summary: LEKI Soft Strap is an ultra-light, very breathable strap and offers maximum comfort with minimal weight, extremely fast adjustment of the pole length, compatible with every Flextip, Effective protection against sinking in
Short Review: I unquestionably love this pair of trekking poles mainly because it is amazing. This features Speed Lock that provides extremely fast adjustment of the pole length. 35% lighter, 27% smaller and same holding force as SL1. The strap is ultra-light, very breathable strap and offers maximum comfort with minimal weight. It definitely helps relieve knee pressure and prevent people from falling down while hiking. This is very good and very durable. The materials used in this item are very high quality also and durable. Another amazing item from LEKI. Versatile item that makes hiking a lot more fun and a lot easier. The simple fact is that this is high quality and I know that if you get this, you will think the same way too.
15. Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Trek Walking Poles
Weight: 0.8 Pounds
Material: Aluminum
Lock Type: Quick Release
Grip: Cork
Feature Summary: Soft-touch ergonomic grip top with 100% natural cork grip and EVA foam grip extension, fusion comfort strap for premium support, interchangeable tech tip compatible with carbide tech tips included
Short Review: I like this pair of walking sticks for hiking and many men and women like this as well. I see this a lot with people who love the outdoors. Black Diamond hiking sticks just screams high quality. I really like that this is easy to use mainly because the items that are very easy to use are often fun to use as well. It is easier and a lot more fun to have this for hiking because this works well. This is really versatile. This is great for the knees and helps conserve leg energy also. The drawback is that this is pretty expensive but if you want something good, sometimes you have to pay more money for them.