The Best Backpacking Poles For 2024

The flexibility of adjustable poles is great in variable terrain. They can also be shared between users and allow for adjustment for height differences. Each pole's weight will increase if it has adjustable levers or is longer. Adjustability and weight are ultimately determined by the user's preference. Stashability and low weight are key features for trail runners. For thru-hikers, weight and comfort will also be important. We recommend that you adjustability be your choice if you aren't sure.

Are you looking for a set of hiking poles, or just one? The trekking poles come as a set and can be used together. The hiking stick, also known as a cane or walking stick, can be used alone and is often half the price of a pair.

With the correct baskets, your trekking poles will take you on three-season adventure into the wintery fourth season. Some poles have a bigger snow basket, which can be clipped or slid onto your poles. Others may be available separately. A pair of trekking poles that have snow basket capability is a great option for cross-country ski, snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.

While lightweight is great for trekking, a pole that's strong and stable should not be. You should look for poles that are made of lighter but stronger materials such as carbon or aluminum. Carbon fiber poles, such as the Black Diamond Distance Carbon or the Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ are lighter and stronger than steel but they can be more costly.
Most trekking pole grips made from rubber, foam or cork are made of either foam. Cork, which is more absorbent than rubber and will allow you to keep gripping even when it's sweaty, can be used for trekking pole grips. Rubber has the greatest grip and shock absorption. However, it can feel a little uncomfortable over longer distances. While foam handles can be comfortable and durable, they are not as long-lasting as the others. You should choose the material that you feel most comfortable with. Your personal preference can certainly impact your choice, however, a mixture of both of these materials makes a good compromise.

Knowing how to properly use straps is the most important aspect of using them. Before you grab the grip, your hand must enter below. The loop will be created by the strap running through your palm. This will enable you to exert a great deal of pressure on the pole without having to use a heavy hand grip. Nylon webbing is often used to make straps, and this can cause chafing. While they are more comfortable than nylon webbing, chamois or fleece straps can cause sweaty hands in hot conditions.

Your grip should be 90 degrees when your pole tip is on the ground at your feet. You should have enough room to maneuver around if the trail isn’t flat. When ascending, slide your hand along the shaft and reach up. As you descend and probe the ground below the shaft, move your hand towards the knob or top.

To hold trekking poles in their place, there are either an external or internal locking system. The "twistlock" is an internal locking system that expands the bracket within the poles to keep the sections in their place when it's turned. The "flick lock" is an external locking system that uses a lever to press down on the shaft. This holds both sections together. Because twist locks can be more complex than flick locks and require some learning, they are not as simple to fix in the field. While flick locks tend to be more durable over time we have had good results with poles that used both of these locking methods.

Small, spring-like shock absorbers can be found near pole tips. They reduce impact on the ground. Higher-end poles have more internal shock absorbers, which will lead to increased price and weight. Although some people enjoy the comfort they offer, we avoid them. They can be less secure than a pole plant due to their ability absorb some of the uphill push. After a long day of hiking, they can be a bit noisy.