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A solid pair of trekking poles provides you with support to tackle the trail ahead, giving you leverage on the uphill, aiding your weary knees on the descent, and helping keep you upright when the terrain gets unsteady.
We've been testing trekking poles since 2012, and we've purchased and tested nearly 70 unique pairs. This review highlights 19 of the market's most intriguing pairs. We spent countless hours hiking, running, trekking, and climbing in terrain ranging from deserts to high mountain peaks and our local trail systems.
The best hiking pole is the collapsible MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon for its comfy grip, compact and ergonomic design, and versatility.
If you're a casual user looking for an affordable pole, the foldable Trekology Trek-Z 2.0 packs comfort and durability into a small package at a great price.
If you're trying to strike a balance between light weight and low price, we love the Black Diamond Distance Z.
Editor's Note: We added the Montem Ultra Strong to our lineup on November 12, 2025.
The MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon poles are comfortable, versatile, compact, and ergonomic. They excel in almost every application. The grip is simple yet elegant, and the length adjustment mechanism is strong and reliable. Though there are several lighter poles in our lineup (like the Black Diamond Distance Z), the MSR poles have a remarkably light swing weight, feeling ounces lighter than their weight on the scale, and are ideal for backpacking and long-distance thru-hiking. “I packed these when I guided multi-day trips on alpine traverses because they tuck compactly into the side of my pack on more technical sections. They have a light feel, which I appreciate after hours on the trail,” our lead tester remarked.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight Per Pair (Size Tested)
15.7 oz (size: 100-120 cm)
Measured Collapsed Length (Tested Size)
14.5 in (size: 100-120 cm)
Measured Max Length (Tested Size)
47.5 in (size: 100-120 cm)
Shaft Material
Carbon
Pole Design
Foldable
At 15.7 ounces for the pair, the DynaLock Ascent Carbon isn't the lightest option on the market. If you want to move fast and light, you can shave almost 6 ounces with the Gossamer Gear LT5. We also found other poles like the Black Diamond Pursuit to be more durable (although they don't pack down as small). But overall, we love these poles from MSR. “For 95 percent of users and anyone wanting one pole to do it all, no matter the season, I recommend the DynaLock Ascent Carbon,” our main tester said.
Our female testers valued the featherlight swing weight of the MSR DynaLock Ascent for trail running in the high country of Rocky Mountain National Park. This pole is perfect for fastpacking or mountain races—because its design balances low weight, quick handling, and control.
The Leki Cressida FX Carbon is a premium foldable trekking pole designed for comfort and versatility. The soft cork grips prove comfy from day one and feature an ergonomic notch to accommodate your index finger. This pole has 5.5 inches of cork grip extension below the main handles, allowing you to shift your grip when heading up steep terrain, and the minimalistic straps are among the most comfortable to use barehanded. Our lead tester commented, “I lead multi-day wilderness treks and have tested these with a diverse group of women on five-day backpacking trips and peak ascents. They appreciated the ergonomic grip and lightweight frame. The Cressida was reliable even during desert backpacking, helping us navigate through muddy potholes in deep canyons while bearing our weight.” Their locking and adjustment mechanisms are designed for ease of use, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced users. Additionally, these poles can be compacted down to 16 inches, allowing for convenient storage in most packs.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight Per Pair (Size Tested)
16.4 oz
Measured Collapsed Length (Tested Size)
16.5 in
Measured Max Length (Tested Size)
47.8 in
Shaft Material
Carbon
Pole Design
Foldable
Given the Cressida FX Carbon's generous grip extension, they are not hyper-light. “I never felt hindered by their weight, but if you are trying to shave grams from your kit, you might want to consider a lighter pair,” one tester noted. The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z is one such option, weighing in at 10.2 ounces per pair. Additionally, since carbon fiber is less durable than aluminum, these poles aren't as long-lasting in the long run. Check out the Black Diamond Trail Back for an aluminum pole that can last your hiking lifetime with proper care. However, if you are looking for comfortable, premium trekking poles that can move seamlessly between day hikes, peak bagging, alpine climbing, and mellow winter activities, then these are an excellent option.
Why do trekking poles need to be gendered in the first place? Well, they don't. Women's specific trekking poles are designed to work for shorter people and/or folks with smaller hands. Men's poles are designed for taller people or those with bigger hands. You may have larger hands and want the features of a “men's” or unisex trekking pole. If that's you, don't feel like you have to buy the trekking poles designed for your gender. If you're less than 6 feet tall and have small hands, “women's” poles might be a comfortable fit for your grip.
The Cressida offers a comfortable grip, sturdy support on uneven terrain, and minimizes impact, even on hard granite, while boulder hopping in Rocky Mountain National Park.
The aluminum Black Diamond Distance Z are simple, lightweight, and high-performance poles that cost around $50 less than their carbon fiber cousins, the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z. The Distance Z retains the same compact size and minimal yet still comfortable grip design as the carbon version, and only weighs around two ounces more. We love both versions of this pole, and since the aluminum-shafted Distance Z costs so much less than the carbon version, we recommend them for those seeking lightweight performance at a reasonable price. Both versions of the pole were upgraded in the past couple years with better locking mechanisms that make it easier to use the poles when it's cold. “I found these upgrades nice, but they're not so significant that you need to upgrade your old ones,” one tester noted.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight Per Pair (Size Tested)
11.9 oz (size: 110 cm)
Measured Collapsed Length (Tested Size)
14.5 in (size: 110 cm)
Measured Max Length (Tested Size)
43.3 in (size: 110 cm)
Shaft Material
Aluminum
Pole Design
Foldable
These Z-style trekking poles lack adjustability, so you'll need to select the right size when you make your purchase. The wrist straps may be a bit thin, especially for those carrying heavy packs. Caveats aside, the Distance Z poles are durable, simple, and affordable for the average day hike, mountain run, or casual backpacking trip. “As one of our lightest poles, they are my favorite for peak bagging because I don't get arm fatigue and they are quick and easy to stash in my pack's sidepouch during technical sections,” comments our lead female tester.
The Trekology Trek-Z 2.0 are foldable three-section poles with some length adjustment for a price that can't be beaten. In the past, users paid a premium if they wanted compact, high-performance poles. Now, this modern technology is affordable. The grips are comfortable, the basket attachments add versatility, and the poles are durable. “These poles are a great deal for users who want a foldable and adjustable pair without breaking the bank,” one tester said.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight Per Pair (Size Tested)
19.1 oz (size: 100-120 cm)
Measured Collapsed Length (Tested Size)
14.75 in (size: 100-120 cm)
Measured Max Length (Tested Size)
47.3 in (size: 100-120 cm)
Shaft Material
Aluminum
Pole Design
Foldable
We measured these on our scale at 19.1 ounces for the pair. Not the lightest in the lineup, but about average. “I wouldn't carry these up and over an alpine climb,” said one tester. For activities like long-distance hiking, where every ounce counts, our testers agree the MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon is the better choice. Moreover, we only measured seven inches of length adjustability during testing, which is less than most other poles offer. Shortcomings aside, the Trek-Z is an excellent choice if you're getting into hiking and want high-performance, foldable poles at a budget-friendly price. If you want a traditional telescoping pole, the Montem Ultra Strong is ideal for casual walkers and adjustable for multiple family members. However, it is hard to tighten for more rugged backcountry use.
The Black Diamond Pursuit is a three-section telescoping pole that stands out for its solid performance across the board and relatively affordable price compared to the top performers. “I found this pole performs nearly as well as the best poles I tested, but at a much more palatable price,” our main reviewer said. It has comfortable grips, plenty of length adjustment, ergonomic locks, and padded wrist straps. Highly versatile, we love this pole for a variety of uses, from day-in and day-out use on the trail while hiking to rugged treks and winter activities. Plus, it has excellent construction quality, so your investment is protected.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight Per Pair (Size Tested)
19.0 oz (size: M/L - 100-140 cm)
Measured Collapsed Length (Tested Size)
25.0 in (size: M/L - 100-140 cm)
Measured Max Length (Tested Size)
55.0 in (size: M/L - 100-140 cm)
Shaft Material
Aluminum
Pole Design
Collapsible
At 19 ounces and a collapsed 25-inch length, the relatively heavy weight and packed size were the most significant disadvantages we encountered during testing. “I find there are better options out there for activities like alpine climbing, mountain running, and peak bagging, which demand the lightest and most compact models,” one tester stated. For those activities, we'd reach for the Black Diamond Distance Z. Notably, almost all of our favorite models we tested feature foldable (Z-style) designs. However, the Pursuit sticks to the time-tested and durable model of aluminum construction in a three-section telescoping design. The result is a less expensive, highly reliable, and versatile pole. If you're on a tight budget, we recommend the Trekology Trek-Z 2.0, which has a similar weight but folds down smaller.
The bone-snapping crack of a trekking pole snapping is a terrible sound, and if you never want a pole to break and leave you trying to duct tape its metal twigs in the wilderness, then consider the shatterproof Black Diamond Trail Back. This pole can handle hefty weights and heavy miles. The aluminum shaft feels reassuringly solid, even when you accidentally jam it between boulders. It's the kind of pole you can toss in the trunk, or lend to a friend without asking them to baby your gear. We think it could be a staple in a community recreation gear shed—it'll perform well with every user. Our lead tester remarked, “The backpacking company I guide for provides this pole for guests of all shapes and sizes during extended backpacking trips, where we carry loads of up to 60 pounds. I don't know of another pole with such a universal fit that can endure that level of abuse and be trusted not to fail during a trip.” With included snow baskets and a robust FlickLock system, it transitions smoothly from summer multi-day backpacks to snowshoeing.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight Per Pair (Size Tested)
18.25 oz
Measured Collapsed Length (Tested Size)
25.0 in
Measured Max Length (Tested Size)
55.5 in
Shaft Material
Aluminum
Pole Design
Collapsible
The aluminum Trail Back is noticeably heavier than carbon fiber models. It's built like a tank, and if you're counting ounces for a thru-hike, the military-grade durability may be too much. The Trail Back's foam grip isn't fancy, but it is a comfortable size for most people. If you're more interested in a comfortable cork grip, the Leki Lhasa AS is a similar telescoping pole that's affordable and durable. At the end of the day, the Trail Back is a workhorse: dependable, straightforward, and built to last. We recommend this pole for beginner backpackers, family or community equipment, and anyone carrying very heavy loads.
The Trail Back's adjustability allowed us to easily find the ideal height for our hike, and once we reached camp, we could quickly secure it to set up our tarp.
Credit: Kate Pitts
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We use trekking poles almost everyday, finding that they make life a lot easier. Here, we used them on a rainy fall hike to cross a swollen creek.
Credit: Jackie Kearney
How We Tested
Since 2012, we have purchased and tested almost 70 pairs of trekking poles for our objective, side-by-side testing protocol. We scour the market for the top options, seeking out the best new offerings, and listen to our peers and other outdoor enthusiasts for clues about the best products. Then, we select and purchase the best of the best for hands-on testing, where we hike, run, climb, and trek with each set of trekking poles until we thoroughly understand each. We measure objective metrics like weight, minimum extended length, and adjustability range whenever possible. For subjective metrics like comfort, we gather a wide range of opinions from our diverse test team and invite friends and peers of all shapes and sizes to share their thoughts. For the full scoop on our testing process, see our How We Test article.
We divide our testing and scoring of trekking poles into six performance metrics:
Comfort (20% of overall score weighting)
Weight (20% weighting)
Versatility (20% weighting)
Locking and Adjustability (15% weighting)
Packed Size (15% weighting)
Construction Quality (10% weighting)
We tested each and every trekking pole with various tests to make sure the ones we recommend are the best.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Why Trust GearLab
Our test team is led by mountain guide, climber, hiker, and skier Jeff Dobronyi. Jeff is an internationally-certified Mountain Guide and leads climbers, trekkers, and backcountry skiers all over the world, from his home in Colorado to the Tetons, Wind River Range, Washington's Cascades, and beyond. He has also guided four expeditions on Denali. In the Rocky Mountains, where approaches and hikes are marked by climbing up and down thousands of feet over rocky terrain, trekking poles are a must. Jeff goes through multiple pairs each year and seems to have poles in his hands every day, whether he's out for an alpine climb, an overnight hike, or a training run.
Using the MSR Dynalock on a slippery descent in Hawaii.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Kate Pitts led the testing of women's specific poles. After a decade with the National Park Service as a Park Ranger (Interpreter, backcountry ranger, and Search and Rescue professional), Kate now guides expeditions as a wilderness trekking guide and enjoys holding space for others to connect deeply with nature. She leads groups on multi-day expeditions in the Rocky Mountains, Grand Canyon, and deserts of Utah and teaches backpackers how to use poles to keep their joints happy. Kate appreciates her poles for absorbing impact knee-pounding descents on Colorado 14ers, and as a thru hiker, she comments, "My favorite poles are multi-purpose because I use them to pitch my own shelter or a tarp for a group I am guiding to keep everyone dry in a rain storm. May the poles you choose prevent pain and ease your strain, so your steps feel light!"
We enthusiastically gathered feedback from countless amazing women traipsing the wilds to discover the perfect trekking poles for women and those with smaller grips.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Jeff was assisted by avid alpine climber, hiker, and backpacker Mary Witlacil. Mary has logged thousands of miles carrying heavy loads all over the Rocky Mountains, the Sierra Nevada, and the deserts of Utah, Arizona, and California. From multi-day expeditions in the Andes, the Wind Rivers, the Rocky Mountains, and the Sierra to humping heavy loads of climbing gear into the backcountry, this gal is a veritable pack mule. While alpine climbing is her first love, Mary logs tons of miles with trekking poles while day-hiking, peak-bagging, backpacking, and romping around in the backcountry. For this round of testing, she spent the majority of her time testing poles in the sandy red rock deserts of the Colorado Plateau in Utah, alpine climbing day trips, and hiking in the mountains and foothills in Colorado.
Our team hiked, backpacked, and logged lots of miles to find the very best on the market.
Analysis and Test Results
We break down the performance of each trekking pole into specific performance categories to help you find a pair of poles that meets your needs. You'll find detailed descriptions of each metric and the top scorers in each of them.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Trekking poles span a wide range of prices, and we find that, in general, you get what you pay for. That said, you can still get totally decent performance from an affordable pole, especially if you're only an occasional trail hiker. If you have a specialized use in mind, prepare to pay a little bit more.
The Trekology Trek-Z 2.0 is our favorite value of the poles we tested. It offers many of the features of more expensive poles at a fraction of the price. These features include comfortable foam grips, a foldable design that allows the poles to pack small, a durable aluminum construction, and plenty of tip and basket attachments.
Our female testers loved the affordable Trek-Z trekking poles. They’re lightweight, have comfy ergonomic cork handles for smaller hands, and are adjustable for shorter heights. Plus, they come in vibrant colors that blend well in fields of Rocky Mountain wildflowers.
If you can swing spending around $100, the Black Diamond Trail Back is one of the most durable poles on the market and an unmatched value if you want a super-durable pole that won't break — and won't break the bank. From there, the price increases, but we also appreciate the value offered by the Black Diamond Distance Z and the Black Diamond Pursuit. These poles perform nearly on par with much more expensive options, and the Distance Z offers an ultralight weight for a much lower sticker price than top ultralight poles.
It can be tempting to skip using poles, they can really help to reduce strain on your body over time, especially when wearing a pack. The Distance Z is an excellent option for runners and lightweight hikers because it is ultralight, easy to deploy, and folds down compactly, making it ideal for fast-paced or minimalist adventures.
Credit: Kate Pitts
For those on the absolute tightest of budgets, the FitLife Nordic is the most affordable pole we tested. There is nothing high-tech about it, but it offers several basket options, including rubber tips for urban walking, and may work just fine if you don't demand high performance. This pole may be okay for folks looking to try out trekking poles, but we generally recommend spending a bit more on a pole like the Trekology Trek-Z 2.0, which scored much higher in our tests.
Although budget-friendly, the TheFitLife Nordic feels heavy and bulky in the backcountry.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Comfort
Trekking poles help transfer some of your body weight from your legs to your arms, but after hours or days of hiking, your hands and wrists can take a real toll from supporting that extra load. To reduce fatigue, many poles feature cushioned grips, padded straps, and ergonomically designed handles. In our experience, the shape of the grip—how well it fits the natural contours of your hand—has the biggest impact on comfort. For women, children, or anyone with a smaller frame, poles with lightweight shafts and smaller ergonomic grips are often more comfortable.
Other design features that enhance comfort include an extended “secondary” grip for use on steep terrain, as well as thick, soft wrist straps, and carbon fiber shafts that help absorb shock when the pole hits the ground. Grips are usually made from a mix of cork, foam, rubber, or plastic. Our test team tends to favor cork grips for their superior comfort, but not all cork is created equal. Softer cork tends to break in more quickly and offers better initial comfort, while harder cork is more durable but takes longer to mold to your hand.
The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork is our favorite grip because it is perfectly contoured to fit our hands, and the cork also molds over time. The Black Diamond Pursuit has a nearly identical grip. We are also big fans of the understated contouring on the MSR DynaLock, which fits our testers' hands well. The Leki Cressida FX Carbon features some of the most comfortable, ergonomic, and soft cork grips of the poles in our lineup, and our female testers found it had the most comfortable grip for women or users with small hands. The handle is slightly shorter and narrower than standard trekking pole grips, fitting petite hands more naturally without feeling bulky. Plus, the 45-degree angle on the head is ideal for palming on the downhill.
The grip of the Cressida FX Carbon is specially contoured and padded to fit the anatomy of a petite hand, ensuring a more secure grip and reducing fatigue over time.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Among the lightweight designs, the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z and Distance Z have a simple foam grip that is comfortable enough for long distances.
The MSR Dynalock's grip features subtle contours that are very comfortable for every hand size.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Poles made from carbon can absorb more shock from impact with the ground than poles made from aluminum, and this distinction is noticeable when using trekking poles on firm bedrock surfaces like the sandstone slabs in the desert and high alpine granite basins. If you will be using your poles primarily on dirt trails, the shaft material won't significantly impact comfort. However, in rocky environments, carbon poles with thick shafts are the most comfortable. The BD Alpine Carbon Cork, Leki Cressida Carbon, and Leki Black Series FX Carbon had the best shock-absorbing performance in our testing but are relatively heavy due to the thickness of the carbon shafts. In this case, increasing comfort means increasing weight.
The BD Alpine Carbon Cork grips are excellent and contour to the user's hand over time.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Aluminum is a less forgiving material, but some manufacturers are incorporating simple shock absorbers to make up for the harsher feel of aluminum trekking poles. While the anti-shock system of the Leki Lhasa AS was somewhat stiff, this might be a good option for dampening trail vibrations without the steeper price tag of the well-crafted carbon poles in our review.
The “AS” stands for “Anti-Shock System,” which refers to the small shock-absorbers just above the mud baskets on the Lhasa.
Credit: Mary Witlacil
The Black Diamond Pursuit merits a special mention for its comfortable features. The wrist straps are made of thick, soft padding, making these poles a dream to wear on the trail, mile after mile. In addition, the lever locks are coated with rubber, making them easy to open and snap closed without hurting your fingers. Both of these features help make this pole one of the most comfortable we have ever tested.
The Black Diamond Trail Back is designed for comfort and practicality in all weather conditions. Its rubber grip fits most hands and does not absorb moisture, ensuring a solid, non-slip hold whether your hands are dry, sweaty, or covered with gloves. This comfortable pole is easy to share among different users and is an excellent choice if you prioritize durability, grip, and reliability in various weather conditions.
The Trail Back's rubber grips comfortably fit most people, stay grippy in the rain, dry quickly, and can be adjusted intuitively on the fly.
Credit: Kate Pitts
You'll want to select a trekking pole that fits your height, especially if you are tall or plan on sharing with a taller friend. The REI Co-op Traverse has the longest settings of our lineup with 55.1 inches for a size 105-140. The REI Trailmade, Pursuit, and Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight also expand to 55 inches. If you are on the taller side and need more height, sizing up will likely be the best option. Otherwise, opt for one of these longer pairs.
The REI Co-op Trailmade has one of the most extended lengths in the lineup.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Weight
As mountain running and ultralight backpacking become more popular, weight is an increasingly important component of a trekking pole. Most of the time, lighter poles are less durable. But if you're only using them during runs, day hikes, or short overnight trips, durability isn't a major concern, and a lighter pole is noticeably more pleasant to use than a heavier one. Weight is less critical if you need a pole to support heavy loads in remote areas, and one that absolutely must not break.
At 10.2 ounces per pair, the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z is among the lightest in our lineup. To achieve such a low weight, these poles have a streamlined foam grip, minimalist wrist strap, and, most notably, ZERO length adjustment. Fixed-length poles save tons of weight by eliminating lever locks and overlapping shaft sections. No need to fear, though: this pole still has the ability to fold down into sections for stowing in a small backpack. At 11.9 ounces, the aluminum Distance Z is only slightly heavier than the lightest carbon option, but it costs much less. Both poles are available in many length options, making them suitable for people of different heights.
The Carbon Distance Z is about as light as it gets.
Credit: Chris McNamara
The Gossamer Gear LT5 are the lightest poles in our test, thanks to carbon shafts, lightweight plastic twist-lock length adjustment mechanisms, and foam grips. These poles lack durability, but they have a very light swing weight, making them great for users with wrist injuries or chronic wrist pain. They aren't suited to backcountry use, but they are great for low-impact hikes and walks.
The Gossamer Gear LT5 achieves a low weight thanks to thin carbon shafts and plastic locking devices that expand when twisted.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Versatility
Some products in our review are purpose-built for specific activities, while others may be used for most or all backcountry activities. Some poles include various baskets and tips to adapt to trail or off-trail conditions. Most users don't need a pole that performs on loose talus approaches or on long treks through burly or uncharted terrain. That said, some poles in our review can do all of it with ease.
For instance, the MSR DynaLock is versatile enough to be used in any situation you might need a pole, from day hiking and extended backpacking trips to technical climbs and backcountry ski tours.
The MSR DynaLock is ready for just about any adventure, winter or summer. We also used them to pitch an ultralight shelter on a backpacking trip.
Most folding poles are weaker than their telescoping counterparts and thus can't be recommended for rugged terrain while carrying a heavy backpack, but the MSR DynaLock does it all.
The MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon is our favorite all-around trekking pole for just about any activity you throw at it.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The Leki Cressida FX Carbon is wonderfully versatile — it's light enough for alpine running and peak bagging, packs down small enough to use for approaching alpine climbs, comfortable enough for backpacking, and burly enough for most winter activities. The Leki Black Series FX Carbon also earns high marks in the versatility category for its small collapsed length, relatively low weight, and well-designed grip for long treks. Our lead guide interviewed a family that had used the Trek-Z for weeks hiking in the Alps. Mom, Dad, and the kids loved the pole, saying it was lightweight and a good fit for people of different sizes. It is ideal for traveling as it fits compactly in a suitcase.
Does versatility include snack attack? The Trek-Z is an excellent choice for peak bagging but be careful not to let the marmot nibble the handles.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The lightweight poles in our review are great for mountain running, ultralight backpacking, technical climbing, day hikes, and on-trail backpacking with heavier packs. This includes the Black Diamond Carbon Z, Carbon FLZ, and Distance Z.
The Distance Z was sturdy enough to help us find our footing in muddy canyon pools.
Credit: Kate Pitts
The only activities we wouldn't use the collapsible Black Diamond poles for are remote, off-trail travel with heavy loads. They also accommodate snow baskets for glacier travel or high-alpine traverses in early summer.
Folding poles are the most compact and are often the easiest style to carry inside a pack.
Credit: Chris McNamara
Other poles come with many baskets and tip attachments to help them perform well across the board. We especially like the non-marking rubber tips that attach to the Black Diamond poles (the Distance Z, Distance FLZ, Distance Carbon Z, Distance Carbon FLZ), as well as the Gossamer Gear LT5, Trailbuddy, and Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aircraft Grade poles.
An assortment of baskets, from super lightweight and small on the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z (left), to the super wide powder baskets on the Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork (right).
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
If you spend time hiking on the sandstone of the American Southwest or anywhere else with soft rock and a fragile ecosystem, we recommend rubber tips because they won't scratch and permanently alter the appearance of the rock. The Montem Ultra Strong come with rubber tips that stay on securely and prevent scratches in desert sandstones, shales, and mudstones. Our lead tester is a hiking guide and encourages her group to use them on popular hikes to practice Leave No Trace and keep walks like the pilgrimage to Delicate Arch preserved for the next person.
Using rubber tips makes it easy to Leave No Trace when using trekking poles on rocky surfaces. Our tester placed the Ultra Strong's rubber sleeves over the carbide tips to prevent the rock from being scratched during a stroll to Delicate Arch.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Locking and Adjustability
All of the poles in our test break down to a smaller length for storage, travel, and stowing in a pack, then extend back to a usable length when needed. Many of these poles also feature an adjustable length mechanism for minor adjustments during use. This metric rewards poles that have a large range of length adjustment and that securely lock into the chosen length. We also consider how easily adjustments can be made to wrist strap lengths and locking mechanism tightness.
Typically, poles with a telescoping design offer the most length adjustment. A lever lock clamps to the shaft, securing the pole in place at your desired length. We are big fans of Black Diamond's metal lever locks on the Alpine Carbon Cork and Pursuit, finding them to be the best locks in our review. The durable aluminum lever locks on the REI Traverse can take a beating while still doing their job, and they are easy to tighten in the field without a tool.
The Black Diamond models and REI Traverse have durable locks that won't break with some wear and tear.
On the other hand, folding poles offer less (and sometimes zero) adjustability and feature a completely different locking mechanism. Each pole section fits together with the next, and an internal pull cord tightens the links together. When pulled tight enough, the cord engages a spring-loaded locking mechanism that prevents the sections from coming apart. Although this pole style can fold down to a smaller packed size than telescoping models, they generally don't include as much length adjustment.
The Distance Z poles break down with a button, but these folding style poles do not have any length adjustability. Make sure you purchase the right size for your height.
Credit: Chris McNamara
Poles like the Distance Z save weight by avoiding any adjustment mechanisms, but they are not ideal if you are between sizes or want to lend your poles to a friend. If you want a packable pole that offers different lengths, consider poles like the Cressida FX Carbon, Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ, or Leki Black Series FX Carbon, all of which feature a single lever lock and a foldable, Z-style design. This allows modest length adjustments once the pole is unfolded.
The locking mechanism and length-adjusting lever on the MSR Dynalock are both sleek and effective.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Packed Size
If you plan on using your poles in your hands for your entire trip, then packed size might not matter. On the other hand, if you'll be using your poles on scrambles, you'll have to stash them in your backpack during technical sections. Additionally, if you'll be traveling and need poles that can fit into your luggage, packed size is an important consideration.
The most packable poles currently available are the ones featuring a foldable design, also known as Z-poles. These poles have become more prevalent in the past few years, and for good reason. This design packs down to nearly half the length of standard telescoping poles. Black Diamond revolutionized and popularized the Z-pole, and now many brands offer their own version of the design.
The DynaLock Ascent, Distance Z, and Distance Carbon Z pack down the smallest of the poles tested.
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z packs down to just 13.0 inches for a size 110. The Distance Z collapses down to as little as 14.5 inches for a size 110. Both the top-ranked MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon and Leki Cressida FX Carbon, as well as the budget-friendly Trekology Trek-Z 2.0, feature a foldable design.
The Leki Black Series FX Carbon is another foldable model we tested that packs down to 15.5 inches. Foldable poles are the best option if you need them to fold up and disappear inside your pack. Most telescoping poles only collapse down to 24 inches, making them much more challenging to fit inside a backpack. With recent developments in the durability of lightweight folding models, we recommend Z-poles for technical missions or for users who want the option to store their poles on the outside or inside of a backpack.
Foldable poles (bottom) pack way smaller than telescoping poles (top). If you plan on stashing your poles in your pack, foldable poles are the way to go.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Construction Quality
Trekking poles are worthless if they break. If you are carrying a heavy load across streams or through rough terrain, a broken pole could also be a serious safety concern. Furthermore, if your shelter system incorporates your poles into the design, as some modern lightweight backpacking tents do, then a broken pole might be a major inconvenience. After our extensive testing period, we have a good idea of which poles are the most trustworthy.
Carbon fiber poles can break when bent or smacked against rocks, but are strong when appropriately loaded along the axis of the pole (from the top down). Aluminum poles can bend when loaded heavily, even along the central axis of the pole, but aluminum usually bends much more than carbon before snapping. Chipped carbon is more prone to snapping, even when loaded along the major axis. We were impressed by the durability of the Black Diamond Pursuit. This pole has solid aluminum shafts that can take a beating on rugged treks. They also feature burly metal lever locks that inspire confidence and perform well.
The Black Diamond Pursuit's burly aluminum shafts and metal lever locks deliver excellent durability.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
One of the most durable poles on the market is the Black Diamond Trail Back. Guiding companies have had this pole in heavy rotation with multiple users carrying expedition loads for up to eight years without the pole breaking. It is made from three 7075 aluminum shafts, which resist bending and denting better than lighter alloys, especially when your poles get caught between rocks or roots. The FlickLock adjustment lever locks have metal-on-metal contact points, giving a strong clamp that's less likely to slip under load compared to cheaper twist locks.
Although the Trail Back's rubberized grips and plastic handle tops are not as premium as cork or foam, they are resistant to wear, UV damage, and moisture absorption, making them an excellent choice for group gear that is easy to clean and will last for ages.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Despite the Black Diamond Distance Z's ultralight design, it's actually quite robust and durable. It is made from aluminum and doesn't include many parts that can break. If you are looking for a pair of well-built carbon-fiber poles, the BD Alpine Carbon Cork is a good option due to the thick carbon shafts.
The TrailBuddy Gear Aluminum Cork (left) and Gossamer Gear LT5 (right) both took damage with light use during our testing period.
Poles don't typically withstand that much of a beating, but some poles were downright disappointing and broke quickly during our testing period. The TrailBuddy's plastic locking mechanism level broke right out of the box, making the poles nearly unusable. We also broke the Gossamer Gear LT5 on our third day of testing when a user tightened the twist-locking shafts a little too much, and the plastic expansion piece inside the pole broke through the carbon shaft. We would recommend avoiding these two choices if you want a pole that will last a long time. We are also hesitant to recommend the plastic lever locks of the REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles.
Mary pausing to check out the Ship's Prow in Rocky Mountain National Park. Trekking poles are a great trail companion when carrying heavy climbing gear into the high country.
Credit: Fernando Urias-Cordero
How to Choose Your Trekking Poles
Whether you're descending the vertical mile into the depths of Grand Canyon or hopping through boulderfields in the Rocky Mountains, the right trekking pole aids your balance, protects your joints, and prevents muscle fatigue. Choosing the best trekking pole isn't about chasing specs—it's about selecting a tool that aligns with your intentions, supports the weight you carry, and helps protect your body. A good pole will help you to feel lighter, more balanced, and healthier on the trail.
Asking where you see your poles can help you determine the poles best suited for the landscapes you plan to walk in. The type of tips on your poles is a good place to start when choosing their suitability for different terrains. Poles with carbide tips grip well on rocky, icy, and uneven terrain and are great for taking into the mountains. If you do more urban walking or on flat, rocky trails, then rubber tips are quieter, better for Leave No Trace because they don't scratch the ground, and provide a more stable base. If you plan to hike in deep sand or snow, select poles that include wide baskets.
Intentions are crucial, so it's important to ask yourself: what support does my body need on this journey? If you're searching for a pole to help you find balance and maintain rhythm while pacing yourself, consider choosing a lightweight pole that allows for an easy swing.
Alternatively, if your goal is to reduce joint impact and carry weight, focus on selecting a pole with a sturdy shaft, ergonomic handles, and reliable locking mechanisms. Prioritize materials that can withstand weight when you lean on them during steep descents or when carrying a heavy pack.
Think about how often you plan to use your pole. If you're just using it a few times a year on casual hikes, you may not need the hottest technology and the lightest options available. And when it comes to transporting your pole when not in use, does it need to stash away inside a daypack, or are you okay with lashing it to the outside? Will you be trekking in foreign countries, necessitating carrying your poles in a suitcase? Many poles can collapse quite small, making them great for travel or outdoor activities that require you to stow them quickly during technical sections.
Weight is another important factor; long-distance hikers or anyone counting ounces may prefer ultralight poles. On the other hand, if you're carrying heavy loads or seeking the most durable pole, you might opt for something more robust.
A good mountain pole is lightweight but strong enough to handle being jammed and torqued in a boulder field.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Other Trekking Poles to Consider
Leki Makalu Lite - If you're looking for a heavy-duty pole for rugged use on long backcountry expeditions, this is one of our testers' favorite poles. It's ideal for wilderness adventures where you can't easily replace gear if it fails. The aluminum construction offers a solid feel without adding significant weight, making it reliable for carrying heavy expedition packs and handling high-impact situations like river crossings. The adjustment system is quick and secure, providing a wide adjustment range suitable for families or guest use.
A good fit for almost everyone, the Leki Makalu provide impressive balance and durability on rough terrain.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Black Diamond Distance FLZ - If you like the idea of the Distance Carbon FLZ pole but can't quite swing the price, Black Diamond makes an aluminum version, the Distance FLZ. This version will save you around $50 and is only about 4 ounces heavier, still weighing in under a pound. They use the same FlickLock locking mechanism and have the same Z-style of adjutability, but their aluminum build makes them a bit sturdier for the backcountry.
Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles - If you prefer telescoping poles, the Black Diamond Trail poles are among the lightest and most compact options available. They collapse easily, making them convenient to pack for travel or to strap onto a backpack when not in use. While they are shorter than the Trail Back model, the Trail poles feature a more streamlined design for easier transport. Despite their lightweight construction, the aluminum shafts are sturdy and provide reliable support on uneven terrain, ensuring stability during both ascents and descents.
The Trail is durable like other Black Diamond poles, but lighter and easier to pack in a suitcase or a haul bag than other telescoping poles.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Conclusion
With so many trekking poles available, choosing the right pair can feel overwhelming. The good news is, for most day hikers, any standard pole will do the trick. However, if you're looking for poles tailored to a specific purpose, you'll need to dig a bit deeper—and that's where this review comes in. We hope our insights help you find the ideal pole for your adventures. See you out there on the trails!
