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10 Best Walking Poles 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles - Lightweight, Collapsible Hiking Poles for Snowshoe & Backpacking Gear - Pair of 2 Walking Sticks for Hiking, 7075 Aluminum with Cork Grip

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable walking poles for hiking or snowshoeing. Made from high-quality 7075 aluminum, these poles are lightweight yet durable, ensuring they can withstand rugged terrains. At just 9.7 ounces per pole, they are lighter than many other aluminum options, making them easier to carry on long hikes.

The poles are adjustable from 24.5 inches to 54 inches, which means they can be used by people of different heights, including kids, and the lever lock mechanism makes it simple to adjust the height with one hand. The grip is made from cork, which is comfortable and molds to the shape of your hand over time, providing a secure hold. The padded straps add to the comfort by helping to distribute weight more evenly.

The tips are made from tungsten carbide, which is durable and works well in a variety of conditions, including snow and mud. While the poles offer good shock absorption, they might not be as effective as those specifically designed with shock-absorbing technology. The cork grips are excellent for moisture-wicking, but some might prefer foam or rubber grips based on personal preference. TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are well-suited for most hikers, offering a blend of durability, comfort, and ease of use.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Adjustability
Lightweight and easy to adjust, the locking mechanisms are reliable and sturdy, making them perfect for various terrains.
Grip
The cork grips offer great comfort and the padded straps help distribute weight evenly, reducing strain during long hikes.
Tip
The poles' versatility is impressive with different tips for different terrains, ensuring they perform well whether on asphalt, gravel, or dirt paths.
#2

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles - Lightweight, Collapsible Hiking Poles for Backpacking Gear - Pair of 2 Walking Sticks for Hiking, 7075 Aluminum with Cork Grip

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their hiking experience. These poles are made from durable 7075 aluminum, making them lightweight (only 9.7 ounces each), which is a real advantage for long treks. Their easy adjustability, ranging from 24.5 inches when collapsed to a maximum height of 54 inches, makes them suitable for users of different heights, including children. The one-handed lever lock system is a standout feature, allowing for quick adjustments without the hassle of two-handed twist locks commonly found in other trekking poles.

The cork grips are another highlight, providing comfort and moisture-wicking properties to keep your hands dry during extended use. The padded straps add extra security for a firm hold, which is particularly beneficial when navigating uneven terrains. Additionally, the poles come with threaded tips that keep attachments secure, whether you're trekking on snow or through muddy trails.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are excellent for casual hikers and families, combining durability with ease of use.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Adjustability
Adjusting the poles is intuitive and effortless, with a wide range of height settings suitable for various users.
Grip
Comfortable cork grips and padded straps enhance the overall hiking experience, even during extended use.
Weight
The lightweight design of the poles makes them easy to carry, and they come with a convenient storage bag for portability.
Shock Absorption
Using these poles significantly reduces joint pain and enhances confidence on uneven or mixed terrains.
Tip
The versatility of different tip attachments makes them adaptable for various hiking conditions, from packed dirt to rocky trails.
#3

Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles - Aluminum Hiking Walking Sticks with Adjustable Locks Expandable to 54" (Set of 2), Cork Grip, Orange

The Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles are crafted from aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum, making them highly durable and reliable in various conditions. Weighing just 10 ounces each, these poles are lightweight, making them easy to carry on long hikes. The quick lock mechanism allows for easy adjustability from 26” to 54”, enabling you to find the perfect height without interrupting your stride.

The poles feature cork grips with an extended EVA down grip, providing comfortable and ergonomic hand placement, which is particularly beneficial on steep inclines. The cork material also helps to reduce vibrations, improving comfort during use. Additionally, these poles come equipped with tungsten carbide tips, making them suitable for all terrains and conditions. The included rubber accessories such as snow and mud baskets, boots, and tip covers enhance durability and longevity compared to cheaper plastic alternatives.

The lack of built-in shock absorption might be a drawback for those seeking extra cushioning on rugged terrain. Furthermore, while the aluminum construction offers solid durability, it is slightly heavier compared to carbon fiber alternatives. However, for their price point and features, these trekking poles offer excellent value, particularly for casual hikers or those looking for a reliable set of walking poles for diverse hiking adventures.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Material
Highly durable and lightweight, these poles are perfect for long hikes without causing fatigue.
Adjustability
Adjusting the height is easy, and the poles come with multiple types of feet for different terrains.
Grip
Comfortable cork grips and extended EVA down grip make these poles ergonomic and versatile on challenging terrains.
Weight
Highly durable and lightweight, these poles are perfect for long hikes without causing fatigue.
Shock Absorption
These trekking poles proved invaluable on steep descents, providing stability and reducing joint impact.

Buying Guide for the Best Walking Poles

Walking poles, also known as trekking poles or hiking sticks, are essential tools for hikers and walkers. They provide stability, reduce strain on your legs, and can help you maintain balance on uneven terrain. When choosing the right walking poles, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure they meet your needs and enhance your walking experience.
MaterialThe material of the walking poles affects their weight, durability, and cost. Common materials include aluminum and carbon fiber. Aluminum poles are generally more affordable and durable, making them a good choice for rugged terrain. Carbon fiber poles are lighter and absorb shock better, which can be beneficial for long hikes or if you have joint issues. Choose aluminum if you need durability and are on rough trails, and carbon fiber if you prioritize lightness and comfort.
AdjustabilityAdjustable walking poles can be lengthened or shortened to suit different terrains and user heights. This feature is important for comfort and efficiency. Poles with a telescoping or folding design are common. Telescoping poles are easy to adjust and are great for varying terrain, while folding poles are compact and convenient for travel. If you hike on varied terrain or share poles with others, adjustable poles are a good choice. Fixed-length poles are lighter and simpler but less versatile.
GripThe grip of the walking poles affects comfort and control. Grips are typically made from cork, foam, or rubber. Cork grips conform to your hand over time and are good for moisture management, making them ideal for long hikes. Foam grips are soft and absorb sweat, providing comfort in hot conditions. Rubber grips are durable and provide a firm hold, suitable for cold weather. Choose cork for long hikes, foam for hot weather, and rubber for cold conditions.
WeightThe weight of the walking poles can impact your endurance and comfort. Lighter poles are easier to carry and reduce fatigue, which is beneficial for long-distance hiking. Heavier poles, while more durable, can be tiring over extended use. If you plan on long hikes or have joint issues, opt for lighter poles. For shorter, more rugged hikes, heavier poles may be more suitable due to their durability.
Shock AbsorptionSome walking poles come with shock absorption features, such as internal springs, to reduce impact on your joints. This is particularly important if you have knee or joint problems or if you hike on hard surfaces. Poles with shock absorption can be slightly heavier and more expensive. If you have joint issues or hike on hard terrain, consider poles with shock absorption. If you prefer a lighter pole and hike on softer ground, this feature may be less necessary.
TipThe tip of the walking poles affects their grip on different surfaces. Carbide or steel tips provide good traction on trails and rocky terrain. Rubber tips are quieter and better for paved surfaces. Some poles come with interchangeable tips for versatility. If you hike on varied terrain, look for poles with interchangeable tips. For primarily trail hiking, carbide or steel tips are ideal. For urban walking, rubber tips are preferable.

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