Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Find the perfect trekking poles for your next adventure with our expert reviews!
Why Choosing the Right Trekking Poles Matters
Trekking poles are more than just hiking accessories; they’re essential gear for enhancing stability, reducing joint strain, and improving endurance on the trail. Whether you're tackling rugged mountain paths or leisurely forest walks, the right trekking poles can make a significant difference in your comfort and safety. They help distribute weight, prevent slips on uneven terrain, and provide crucial support during long descents. With the wrong pair, however, you risk discomfort, blisters, or even injury due to poor design or materials. That’s why selecting the best trekking poles for your needs is a game-changer for any outdoor enthusiast.
Key Factors to Consider and Our Expertise
When shopping for trekking poles, consider factors like weight, adjustability, material (aluminum vs. carbon fiber), grip comfort, and shock absorption. Portability and durability are also critical, especially for backpackers or multi-day trekkers. At Review Atlas, we’ve spent countless hours testing the top trekking poles of 2025 across diverse terrains—from rocky alpine trails to muddy lowlands. Our team of seasoned hikers and outdoor experts evaluates each product based on performance, build quality, and value for money. We simulate real-world conditions to ensure our recommendations meet the needs of beginners and seasoned adventurers alike. With hands-on testing and in-depth analysis, we’re confident our guide to the best hiking poles will help you make an informed choice for your next journey. Let’s dive into our expertly curated list!
The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork earns our top spot for its unbeatable balance of lightweight design and durability. Weighing just 17 ounces per pair, these carbon fiber poles are ideal for long treks, offering excellent strength without sacrificing portability. The cork grips provide superior comfort and moisture-wicking properties, while the FlickLock Pro adjustment system ensures secure, easy height changes on the fly. We loved their versatility across varied terrains, from rocky trails to snowy slopes, thanks to the included carbide tips and snow baskets. However, the premium price may deter budget-conscious buyers. Overall, these are the best trekking poles for serious hikers seeking performance and reliability.
Pros: Lightweight, durable, comfortable grips.
Cons: Higher price point.
As our Editor's Choice, the Leki Makalu FX Carbon stands out for its premium features and innovative design. These carbon fiber poles are incredibly lightweight at 16.5 ounces per pair and feature Leki’s Speed Lock 2 system for quick, reliable adjustments. The Aergon Air grips offer ergonomic comfort, reducing hand fatigue on long hikes, while the folding mechanism makes them ultra-packable for travel. We found them exceptional for technical terrain, with excellent shock absorption. The only downside is the steep cost, but for avid trekkers, the investment is worth it. These are among the best hiking poles for those prioritizing cutting-edge technology.
Pros: Lightweight, packable, ergonomic grips.
Cons: Expensive.
For hikers on a budget, the Cascade Mountain Tech Aluminum Quick Lock poles are a fantastic choice at under $50. Made from durable aluminum, they weigh 20 ounces per pair and feature a quick-lock mechanism for easy height adjustments. The cork grips are comfortable for extended use, and the poles come with multiple tip accessories for different terrains. During testing, they held up well on moderate trails, though they lack the lightweight feel of carbon fiber options. If you’re looking for affordable trekking poles for hiking without compromising on essentials, these are a solid pick.
Pros: Affordable, durable, versatile accessories.
Cons: Heavier than premium models.
The REI Co-op Traverse poles are a reliable option for hikers seeking a balance of performance and value. Made from aluminum, these poles weigh 19 ounces per pair and feature REI’s PowerLock system for secure adjustments. The foam grips are comfortable and absorb sweat well, making them great for warm-weather hikes. We appreciated their durability on rocky trails, though they’re slightly bulkier when collapsed compared to folding models. A solid choice for casual to intermediate hikers looking for best trekking poles under $100.
Pros: Durable, comfortable grips, reasonably priced.
Cons: Not as packable as folding poles.
The MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon poles are a top contender for backcountry enthusiasts. Weighing only 16 ounces per pair, these carbon fiber poles are designed for rugged terrain with a DynaLock adjustment system that holds firm even under heavy loads. The Kevlar-reinforced lower sections add durability, and the collapsible design makes them easy to stow. We found them excellent for winter hikes with the included snow baskets, though the grips can feel stiff in cold weather. A great pick for adventurers needing lightweight trekking poles.
Pros: Lightweight, durable, collapsible.
Cons: Grips less comfortable in extreme cold.
The Komperdell Carbon Trail poles offer a lightweight and sturdy option for fast-paced hikers. At 15.5 ounces per pair, these carbon fiber poles are built for speed, with a Titanal.HF locking system for quick adjustments. The padded grips provide decent comfort, though they’re not as plush as cork options. We found them ideal for day hikes and trail running, but less suited for heavy-duty treks due to minimal shock absorption. A good choice for those seeking carbon fiber trekking poles for lighter adventures.
Pros: Very lightweight, quick to adjust.
Cons: Limited shock absorption.
The Black Diamond Distance Z is a favorite among ultralight hikers, weighing just 12 ounces per pair. Made from aluminum, these folding poles are incredibly packable, collapsing down to a mere 13 inches. The foam grips are lightweight but can feel less supportive on long treks. During testing, they excelled on flat to moderate trails but struggled with stability on steep descents. Perfect for minimalists looking for collapsible trekking poles for fast hikes.
Pros: Ultralight, highly packable.
Cons: Less stable on technical terrain.
Designed with women in mind, the Leki Cressida FX Carbon offers a shorter length range and smaller grips for better ergonomics. Weighing 17 ounces per pair, these carbon fiber poles feature the Speed Lock 2 system for easy adjustments and a folding design for portability. We found them comfortable for all-day use on varied terrain, though the price is on the higher side. A top pick for female hikers seeking adjustable trekking poles tailored to their needs.
Pros: Ergonomic design, lightweight, packable.
Cons: Premium pricing.
The Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles are a budget-friendly aluminum option that doesn’t skimp on durability. At 19.2 ounces per pair, they’re slightly heavier but feature quick-lock mechanisms and comfortable foam grips. They performed well on moderate hikes during testing, with good stability on uneven ground. However, they lack the finesse of premium models for technical trails. A solid choice for beginners looking for affordable hiking poles with decent performance.
Pros: Durable, budget-friendly, stable.
Cons: Heavier than competitors.
The Gossamer Gear LT5 Carbon poles are a go-to for ultralight enthusiasts, weighing an impressive 10 ounces per pair. These carbon fiber poles are minimalist, with simple twist-lock adjustments and basic foam grips. They’re perfect for thru-hikers prioritizing weight savings, but we noticed they’re less durable under heavy stress or rocky conditions. Ideal for those seeking ultralight trekking poles for long-distance, low-impact hikes.
Pros: Extremely lightweight, minimalist design.
Cons: Less durable on rough terrain.
Compare key specs and features of all our recommendations side-by-side
| Product | Recommendation | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Rank #1 | 🏆 Top Pick | N/A | Check price |
Flags of our Fathers (Edited Version) Rank #2 | ⭐ Editor's Choice | N/A | Check price |
Barefoot Shoes Men Wide Toe Box Zero Drop Water Shoes Men for Gym Workout Minimalist Weightlifting Cross-Trainer Running Hike Grounded Footwear 9.5 Black Brown Rank #3 | 💰 Budget Pick | 4.3 4.3 | |
REI Co-op Traverse Rank #4 | — | N/A | Check price |
MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon Rank #5 | — | N/A | Check price |
Komperdell Carbon Trail Rank #6 | — | N/A | Check price |
Black Diamond Distance Z Rank #7 | — | N/A | Check price |
Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men Rank #8 | — | 4.6 4.6 | |
 Montem Ultra Strong Trekking, Walking, and Hiking Poles - One Pair (2 Poles) - Collapsible, Lightweight, Quick Locking, Weather-Resistant and Ultra Durable Black (EVA Foam Grip) Rank #9 | — | 4.5 4.5 | Check price |
Gossamer Gear LT5 Carbon Rank #10 | — | N/A | Check price |
Review Atlas Team - Editorial Team
