When you’re hiking long trails or navigating uneven terrain, a pair of quality walking poles for hiking can make a big difference. They can even be an important part of your ultra-lightweight camping setup up as some tents use hiking poles instead of tent poles to save weight. Truthfully, we didn’t see the value of walking poles until a weekend through-hike trip, and it really changed the game. The trekking poles helped with balance, reduced pressure on our knees, and improved endurance during steep ascents and descents.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best trekking poles for hiking, from trusted names like Black Diamond, MSR, LEKI, and Montem. Whether you prefer collapsible hiking poles for travel or lightweight carbon models for speed and performance, the right pair will enhance both comfort and stability on your outdoor adventures. We’ve focused on materials that balance strength and weight, including 100% carbon fiber options for ultralight efficiency and aluminum models for dependable durability. You’ll also find designs that cater to different hiking needs, from minimalist trail runners to mountaineers tackling alpine climbs.
Read more: The Best Tents for Backpacking
So, whether you’re seeking foldable or adjustable hiking poles, compact hiking pole tents for lightweight thru-hiking, or ergonomic grips for all-day comfort, these poles have you covered. Below, we’ll break down the top picks, explore the different types of trekking poles, and answer common questions about how to choose and use them effectively.
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The Best Walking Poles for Hiking at a Glance
- Best Ultralight: Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles
- Best for Mountaineering: Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles
- Best Budget Carbon: Montem Ultra Light 100% Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
- Best Budget Aluminum Option: Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles
- Best Adjustable Carbon: Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ Trekking Poles
- Best for Sturdiness: MSR DynaLock Ascent Foldable Carbon Trekking Poles
- Best for Adjusting: LEKI Makalu FX Carbon Trekking Poles
Best Walking Poles for Trekking
Ultralight, minimalist, and built for speed, the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z poles are ideal for mountain runners, hikers, and fastpackers who prioritise minimal weight and maximum strength. Made from 100% carbon fiber, they deliver exceptional stiffness without bulk. The Z-Pole folding design deploys quickly with a single pull and folds down small enough to fit inside most daypacks. Comfortable EVA foam grips and mini extensions offer control on technical terrain, while carbide tips provide traction across all surfaces.
Key specs
Material 100% carbon fiber
Weight ultralight
Grip EVA foam with mini extensions
Design Z-pole folding
Adjustability fixed-length
Collapsed length compact
Crafted from 100% carbon fiber, the Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork poles combine lightweight strength with luxurious comfort. The natural cork grip and soft-touch top provide excellent moisture management, while EVA foam extensions add versatility on steep climbs. The FlickLock Pro system allows quick and secure adjustments on the trail, and interchangeable carbide tips enhance traction in any environment. These poles strike the perfect balance of rigidity and adaptability, making them a favourite for backpackers and mountaineers alike.
Key specs
Material 100% carbon fiber
Grip natural cork with EVA extension
Design collapsible
Adjustability FlickLock Pro system
Weight lightweight, durable build
Origin made in the USA
One of the best affordable carbon trekking poles, the Montem Ultra Light Carbon pair offers premium performance without the premium price. Made from 100% carbon fiber, each pole weighs just 7.6 ounces, keeping you agile on long treks. Quick-lock adjustment allows you to set the perfect height, while padded straps and ergonomic grips ensure comfort over extended hikes. Compact and travel-ready, they’re easy to pack and ideal for globetrotters or weekend explorers.
Key specs
Material 100% carbon fiber
Weight 7.6 oz per pole
Design collapsible and adjustable
Grip padded ergonomic
Adjustment range 24–53 inches
Locking system quick lock
For a durable yet budget-friendly option, the Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles are built from aircraft-grade Aluminum 7075 for unmatched strength at a low price point. The quick-lock system makes them easy to adjust, while padded straps and ergonomic handles enhance comfort. Designed to handle all terrains, they’re perfect for casual hikers or those needing a reliable backup pair. Backed by Montem’s lifetime replacement promise, these poles are a solid investment for everyday adventurers.
Key specs
Material aluminum 7075
Design collapsible and adjustable
Grip padded ergonomic handle
Adjustment range 24–53 inches
Locking system quick lock
Weight 9.6 oz per pole
For hikers who want both lightweight packability and adjustable length, the Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ offers the best of both worlds. Constructed from 100% carbon fiber, these poles feature a Z-Pole folding design paired with FlickLock adjustability for precision height control. Their reinforced joints ensure strength, while EVA foam grips and non-slip extensions provide comfort and control during long climbs. Ideal for trail runners and fastpackers, they perform reliably on dirt, rock, or snow.
Key specs
Material 100% carbon fiber
Design Z-pole folding with adjustable FlickLock
Grip EVA foam with mini-grip extension
Collapsed length compact
Weight ultralight performance
Tips carbide tech tips with interchangeable rubber options
Engineered for rugged backcountry adventures, the MSR DynaLock Ascent poles are crafted from Kevlar-reinforced carbon fiber for unbeatable strength and low weight. The three-piece folding design packs small, while the DynaLock mechanism allows tool-free tension adjustment and a 20 cm range for precise fit. EVA foam grips provide comfort and multiple hand placements, making them perfect for both skiing and summer hiking. A versatile choice for mountaineers who need reliable gear year-round.
Key specs
Material Kevlar-reinforced carbon fiber
Design foldable three-piece
Adjustability 20 cm via DynaLock mechanism
Grip EVA foam with lower extension
Collapsed length 14.25 in
Weight 17 oz per pair
The LEKI Makalu FX Carbon poles are designed for hikers who demand premium comfort and performance. Built entirely from carbon for maximum rigidity, these collapsible poles feature LEKI’s Speed Lock 2 Plus system for easy length adjustment. The Aergon Air foam grip offers superior control on technical terrain, and the extended handle allows natural hand movement on steep trails. Lightweight, strong, and highly packable, they deliver reliability on every adventure.
Key specs
Material 100% carbon (PRC 1000)
Design collapsible and adjustable
Grip Aergon Air foam with fixed strap
Length range 110–130 cm
Collapsed size 15.7 in
Weight 8.9 oz
Why Choose Walking Poles for Hiking?
Whether you’re trekking across the Rockies, summiting the Alps, or exploring local trails, walking poles can really transform your experience if you are on uneven terrain. They add balance and rhythm to your stride, reduce strain on your knees during descents, and improve stability on uneven or slippery terrain. Poles distribute effort evenly across the upper and lower body, making long days on the trail feel smoother and less fatiguing.
Many hikers also find that using poles encourages a more upright posture and consistent pace. This is ideal for endurance treks or high-altitude climbs. From carbon-fiber ultralight designs to budget-friendly aluminum builds, the best trekking poles offer the perfect balance of weight, comfort, and control. Whether you prefer collapsible or adjustable options, these tools are an investment in comfort, efficiency, and protecting those precious joints.
What to Look for in the Best Hiking Poles
When choosing trekking poles, the key is matching the design to your hiking style. Material is a great place to start. Carbon fiber poles are light and responsive, while aluminum versions are tougher and better for rocky, demanding terrain. Weight and packability are also important if you’re traveling light or using poles for trail running or fastpacking.
Look for adjustable locking systems such as FlickLock or Speed Lock that allow you to fine-tune length on the go, and ergonomic grips made from cork or EVA foam to reduce blisters and improve comfort in warm or wet conditions. If you’re traveling abroad or backpacking, foldable poles offer compact storage. For multi-day use, interchangeable tips and baskets allow you to adapt to mud, snow, and rock.
What are Walking Poles?
The terms “walking poles” and “trekking poles” are often used interchangeably. If you’re hiking with a heavy pack or tackling mixed terrain, trekking poles will offer the strength and versatility you need. However, if you’re looking for a simple balance aid for moderate trails, a pair of lightweight walking poles will do the job perfectly. Many of today’s top models, such as the Black Diamond Carbon Z and LEKI Makalu FX bridge both needs, offering all-terrain performance in a lightweight package.
FAQs
Are carbon trekking poles worth it?
Yes, carbon poles are significantly lighter than aluminum and absorb vibration well, which can reduce fatigue over long distances. They’re ideal for fastpacking or multi-day treks, though aluminum remains better for extremely rugged or rocky terrain where impact resistance matters most.
Should I get folding or adjustable hiking poles?
It depends on how you travel. Folding poles are more compact and perfect for fastpacking or trips where space is limited, while adjustable poles allow more flexibility in length, making them great for shared use or changing terrain.
Can hiking poles be used as tent poles?
Yes, many lightweight shelters and minimalist tents are designed to pitch using trekking poles. Look for adjustable poles that can fine-tune length easily to match your tent’s structure. We have done this to reduce weight on thru-hikes.
Do I need two poles or one?
While some walkers prefer using a single pole for balance, most hikers benefit from using a pair. Two poles provide symmetry, better rhythm, and improved stability — particularly on steep ascents and descents.
How tall should hiking poles be?
A general rule is that your elbow should form a 90-degree angle when holding the pole handle on level ground. Most adjustable trekking poles can be fine-tuned to fit your height perfectly, ensuring efficient energy transfer and comfortable movement.
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