Top Picks Best Collapsible Trekking Pole: Updated In December 2024

Katie Finn By, Katie Finn
Updated
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles - Lightweight, Collapsible Hiking Poles
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: TrailBuddy Trekking Poles - Lightweight, Collapsible Hiking Poles

The lightest trekking poles on the market, TrailBuddy trekking poles are crafted with strong aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, tougher than carbon fiber yet weighing almost 4oz less than your average trekking poles. These lightweight poles are designed to last and keep up with you wherever your next adventure takes you. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles Collapsible

TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles Collapsible are a lightweight, packable, high-quality pole that offers an anti-shock structure and is shock absorbing. These poles feature our Quick Lock so you can collapse or extend your poles from 26" (65 cm) all the way to 53" (135 cm) quickly. When not in use, these are easy to collapse, small and light enough to be stored within your backpack. Read Review

3. Best Choice: Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles – Collapsible, Lightweight

Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are the ultimate hiking poles for a variety of adventures. Whether you're trekking through the jungle, climbing a mountain, or exploring an ancient temple; these hikin' poles offer you the stability and convenience of a carbon fiber pole with the ultra-lightweight design of aluminum. The sturdy locks are designed to firmly keep the walking poles in place and prevent them from sliding down, offering you the ultimate stability. Read Review

4. Best Convenient: Aihoye Trekking Poles, Collapsible Lightweight Shock-Absorbent Hiking

Aihoye Trekking Poles are the perfect hiking companion. With their lightweight and shock-absorption properties, they provide a comfortable grip and a natural handhold. The 100% satisfaction guarantee ensures that if you’re unhappy with your purchase, we’ll make it right or refund your purchase price. Read Review

When you are traveling on a backpacking trip, you will encounter many different terrains and conditions. You could be climbing a mountain, crossing a stream, or simply walking through the woods. Depending on the condition of the ground, your trekking pole should have the ability to adapt. This is why you need an adjustable trekking pole. It allows you to adjust the height of your hiking pole accordingly so that it works best for you and your needs at any given time.

The most important thing when looking for an adjustable trekking pole is that it’s durable and reliable as well as lightweight yet sturdy enough to support your weight while being compact enough not to take too much space in your backpack. Anyone who has ever hiked before will tell you that weight is one of the heaviest factors affecting how long we can hike for. Therefore, lightweight collapsible trekking poles that can be used with minimal effort and space in our backpack are ideal!

Following extensive study and analysis, we've come up with the TrailBuddy Trekking Poles - Lightweight, Collapsible Hiking Poles, which we hope will meet your demands. However, it is not the only thing on our list. We also show a full buyer's guide and a number of different options are available to help you find the most suitable.

Our Top Picks

  • LIGHTWEIGHT: These hiking poles are crafted with strong aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, tougher than carbon fiber yet weighing almost 4oz less than your average trekking poles for hiking.
  • EASY TO USE: Our lever locks can be easily operated with just one hand, which is much easier than the 2-handed twist locks on other walking sticks for hiking.
  • ADJUSTABLE: Set to your desired height in seconds, from the 54" max height down to just 24.5" when fully collapsed. They even double as hiking poles for kids!
TOP Choice #2 TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles Collapsible
Our Score:
9.8
TheFitLife
  • Built to last: We use 6 series Aluminum to make the Strongest & Lightest Poles in the Outdoor Market
  • Anti shock/ shock, absorbing poles: With the High Quality 6 Series Aluminum Material, the Shock-Absorbing Effect Can Strongly Reduce Damage From the Impact Force
  • Extendable: Our poles feature our Quick Lock so you can collapse or extend your poles from 26" (65 cm) all the way to 53" (135 cm) quickly. When not in use, these are easy to collapse, small and light enough to be stored within your backpack.
  • EASILY ADJUSTABLE: Thanks to the quick-lock technology, Foxelli collapsible hiking poles are incredibly easy to use and a breeze to adjust - locking them in place takes only a few seconds. The sturdy locks are designed to firmly keep the walking poles in place and prevent them from sliding down, offering you the ultimate stability. Retractable from 24” to 55”, they work for a wide range of different heights, including both short & tall MEN, WOMEN & even KIDS!
  • 100% CARBON FIBER: Foxelli Trekking Poles (also known as Nordic walking poles or hiking sticks) are made from 100% carbon fiber material, which is known for its incredible lightness. Each pole weighs only 7.6 oz, allowing you to move quicker and faster while exerting less energy. Carbon fiber is also shock-absorbent and significantly minimizes the impact on joints. Durable and sturdy, these walking sticks are designed to withstand even the most challenging hikes or backpacking trips.
  • RISK-FREE PURCHASE: Don’t worry about missing Amazon’s 30-day return window. We offer a 120-day, no questions asked returns together with our One Year Warranty. If - FOR WHATEVER REASON – you don’t like it, we’ll make sure to take care of that. Buy with confidence!
  • ✔100% Satisfaction Guarantee - We offer a FREE REPLACEMENT POLICY without any costs from your side and 1-YEAR WARRANTY, totally no risk for you! Any problems or questions just contact us via Amazon. We will do our best to provide perfect after-sale service for you!
  • ✔High Quality - The Collapsible Hiking Sticks Are Made Of Premium Quality Aviation Aluminum, Each Poles Only Weights 10.3 Oz,Which Is Sturdy, Lightweight And Easy To Adjust, This Trekking Poles are Retractable From 25” to 52”, Fit The Needs of Men, Women And Kids Hiking Trips.
  • ✔Comfortable Grip -The Walking Sticks Feature An Ergonomic Plastic Handle Grip, Which Offers A Maximum Non-Slip, Comfortable, Natural And Warm Handhold, The Secondary Foam Handle Is Great To Absorb Moisture From Sweaty Hands. The Straps Of The Collapsible Walking Sticks Are Durable And Adjustable In Order To Get A Comfortable Fit.
  • Sizing ... We've Got You Covered: The length of the pole can be adjusted quickly and easily using an innovative metal flip lock technology. Customize the height to your liking, and ensure it is secure with our metal stopper secure locking system. The height of the poles has adjustment range of 20cm from 110cm to 130cm that fits for men, women, teenager with height between 5'2'' (159cm) to 6'5'' (195cm). Each package comes in pair with holder bag.
  • Lighter Than Your Average Umbrella: Each pole weighs only 11.5 ounces (330g) perfect as an all-day walking stick or for backpacking in high mountains or on your favorite ski trails, or even crossing the stream. The staffs are engineered with 100% air-space grade 7075 aluminum-same material used on aircraft and in marine environments, when strength and lighter weights are needed. Whether you are for fishing, hiking, these folding poles are the only trek poles you will ever need
  • Compact Design that is Ready to Go When You Are: Trek-Z hiking poles collapsible design, fold down to a portable 15 inches (38 cm), thanks to its retractable tri-fold system. Fitting into backpack, luggage cases, or duffel bags for compact travel! Walking sticks for women- No more cumbersome walking sticks! Trek-Z walking poles give you the ability to build strength and muscle while you run errands. Let these unique poles go with you to all your outdoor leisure activities and adventures!
  • 【Trusted Choice】- If you have any questions about the product or are not satisfied with it, please contact us at any time. We offer you the best solution. Your satisfaction is our main concern.
  • 【Ergonomic Design for Protection】- Our trekking poles provide a suitable height selection and come with 3 different shapes of rubber tips, which can enhance stability on different terrain. The EVA Foam Handle is sweat-absorbent, skid resistance groove design and comfortable. The wrist straps are adjustable, they can let you relax your grip slightly and transfer some of the pressure to your arm.
  • 【Ultra Lightweight & Sturdy】- Our Trekking poles made from Aircraft Grade 7075 Aluminum, which withstands pressure and impacts better than carbon fiber. A surface treatment creates a protective coating against corrosion, which provides a high level of corrosion resistance. Aluminum bends without snapping, which are best for long-distance trekking and trips where durability is the primary concern.
  • Premium Stability: With our flip lock lever technology, our hiking poles are easy to adjust & lock in place securely. More secured locking than twist lock or foldable poles that slide out. And we use metal locks vs. plastic for ultimate strength.
  • Why Choose Us? Based in the USA & a team of Obsessive Hikers! Call us with Any Questions at Any Time. Trusted by 50,000+ customers since 2015 & a 3-year warranty to back up our products. Our first pole from 2015 is still going strong 7+ years later!
  • Made For You: Our hiking sticks are retractable from 24” to 55” & are designed both short & tall Women, Men, & Kids! Built for backpacking, camping, & simple walks outside, our poles make the perfect camping essentials or outdoor gifts for someone!
  • QUICKLY LOCK: New Quick Lock System, adjustable length from 43.3" to 49", with measuring scale to easily get your preferred heightby
  • MUCH SAFER:Tungsten Steel Rod Tip under the rubber footing, much safer and more abrasion resistant
  • 100% CUSTOMER SATISFACTION GUARANTEE-We are so confident in the quality of this folding hiking pole that we will offer you an unconditional money back guarantee if you do not believe that the hiking pole lives up to expectations.
  • LEAVES A LOT OF SPACE FOR WHAT'S IMPORTANT Designed to give you more space. Each walking stick for hiking collapses down to 37cm (14.5 inches) and weighs only 10 ounces each leaving you place for your essentials and personal gear.
  • LOOK FABULOUSLY ALSO WHEN OUT ON A HIKE – These durable aluminum 7075folding trekking poles make your posture high and stable. The collapsible hiking poles give you a fashionable look while Nordic walking in the park or trekking on trails.
  • KEEPS YOUR HANDS BLISTERS FREE - These adjustable hiking sticks are made with ergonomically designed handles which offers you a firm but comfortable grip. The handles will keep your hands dry even when you are super active.
  • WEIGHS LESS THAN A CAN OF SODA. Each adjustable pole weighs close to 11 ounces, so which do you prefer to take on a trail :-)
  • FREE YOUR HANDS. Even with the ergonomic comfortable handles, sometimes you still will need to let them go, so we included unique belt-mounted carriers for you. This makes them perfect as wading staff when fly fishing as well.

What to Look For in a best collapsible trekking pole?

To buy any product seems easy, but to choose the best one is not straightforward. The time you take to research its outcome is significant. The same matter also comes to best collapsible trekking pole of 2024 that we include in this article. But you can relax instead of spending too much time learning the products. It’s our duty!

Here are the main features of best collapsible trekking pole that all of you guys should keep in mind when deciding to make a purchase:

Adjustability & Weight

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.

Locking System

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.

Baskets

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.

Straps

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.

Shock Absorbers

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.

Pole Length

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.

Materials

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.

Types Of Poles

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.

FAQs

Should I Buy Folding Poles Or Telescopic Poles?

Z-poles are lighter than folding poles. These are made up of three sections that can be joined by a cord and compacted when they are not in use. These are more costly than telescopic poles, but they are preferred by many ultralight backpackers and fast packers. They are also more fragile.
You can buy telescopic poles as one unit or in two or three piece adjustable sets. Two- to three-piece sets are recommended. If you cannot adjust the length of your trekking sticks, they will be heavy and cumbersome.

Are Trekking Poles Worth It?

Although trekking poles don't have to be used, they are a great aid. They can help you distribute your weight, and reduce the effect on descends when carrying a large pack. These are great for stability on steep treks or river crossings.

Should I Use One Or Two Trekking Poles?

It is up to you whether you choose one trekking pole or two. If they wish to reduce the amount of weight that they carry, some explorers will only use one trekking pole. However, two trekking poles will provide you with better support than one.

Are There Trekking Poles Specifically Made For Right And Left Hands?

Since the grips of trekking poles can be used in either right or left handed, most brands will mark them with the appropriate hand. You should always verify the markings on the trekking stick and hold it in the right hand.

Is It Better To Hike With One Trekking Pole Or Two?

A single hiking stick or a staff could be used, but we prefer a pair. You will have a better gait, more stability and a more ergonomically balanced gait.
You can pack a pair of poles when you don't need them, or you only have one hand for taking photos.

Which Material Should I Go For?

Most trekking poles made of aluminum and carbon fiber are aluminum. Aluminum is stronger. Aluminum is more durable than carbon fiber. It bends occasionally, but it rarely breaks. Although carbon fiber can be more easily broken, it is extremely lightweight.
Plastic, rubber, cork or foam are the most common grip materials for poles. Plastic and rubber are less chafing-friendly than cork and foam.

How Tall Should My Trekking Pole Be?

When your arms are at 90 degrees, the trekking pole grip should be comfortably held in your hand.
A 100cm pole is the best choice for people under 5ft1. For those over 5'7", a 110-115cm length pole is recommended. A 120 cm pole is required for hikers with heights between 5'8" and 5'11". For those who are taller than 6 feet, the 130cm option is recommended.

Can I Use My Trekking Poles For My Tent?

Temporary hiking shelters can be used with trekking poles. Hiking sticks can double as hooks to make temporary shelters. These temporary shelters can be used as hooks for your trekking pole.

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About Katie Finn

Katie Finn

Katie Finn is a freelance writer who loves to explore the world and go camping. She's also an editor for CampfireHQ, where she enjoys writing about wildlife and camping tips. She also has a passion for reading and learning new things, which she often incorporates into her writing.

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