The Best Trekking Poles of 2024

In the world of outdoor exploration, few tools rival the value of trekking poles. These adaptable companions offer stability, support, and equilibrium, proving indispensable for hikers at any proficiency level.

2024 has seen remarkable strides in the design and functionality of trekking poles, presenting enthusiasts with an array of tailored options to suit their specific requirements. Here, we delve into the leading trekking poles of the year, curated to enhance your backpacking escapades.

From daunting mountain tracks to serene woodland trails, these trekking poles stand ready to become your steadfast allies on every adventure.

Beyond mere stability, trekking poles play a pivotal role in mitigating fatigue, averting injuries, and amplifying overall hiking efficiency. With features like ergonomic handles, shock-absorbing mechanisms, and customizable lengths, contemporary trekking poles are meticulously engineered to optimize comfort and performance across diverse landscapes.

Whether conquering steep ascents, navigating challenging descents, or covering extensive distances, the appropriate pair of trekking poles can significantly elevate your hiking experience, empowering you to venture farther and surmount obstacles effortlessly.

Before setting off on your next outdoor excursion, equip yourself with the premier trekking poles of 2024 and experience the remarkable difference they can bring to your journey.

In A Hurry? Here Are Our Favorite Picks…

Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles

 

Crafted to cater to the demands of avid hikers and nature enthusiasts, the Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles offer a fusion of premium attributes.

Prioritizing user comfort, longevity, and efficacy, these poles are designed to support individuals navigating challenging landscapes.

Boasting a top-notch cork grip with a supplementary soft-rubber extension, these poles deliver exceptional control and stability during excursions.

The enhanced Flick Lock Pro adjustability, engineered with lighter aluminum materials, elevates usability and versatility on rugged paths. Fashioned with a 3-section shaft comprised of 100% carbon fiber, these poles strike an ideal equilibrium between durability and featherweight portability.

Black Diamond’s poles stand out for their superior construction and robustness, ensuring sustained performance even in harsh outdoor settings. Nonetheless, a few users have observed occasional issues with the bottom collars failing to securely hold the poles when collapsed, resulting in sporadic clattering during storage.

Pros:

•  Augmented grip provided by premium cork material and a soft-rubber extension, enhancing both handling and security.
•  Enhanced usability attributed to the lightweight aluminum build of the Flick Lock Pro adjustability feature.
•  Assured reliability and portability due to the robust 100% carbon fiber shaft.

Cons:

•  Some occasional instances of the bottom collars failing to securely hold the poles when collapsed, leading to minor clattering.
•  These poles are priced higher compared to alternative options in the market.

 

Montem Ultra Light Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles

The Montem Ultra Light Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles offer a reliable and lightweight solution for budget-conscious hikers seeking top-notch quality. Designed to provide stability and assistance on outdoor adventures, these poles are crafted entirely from carbon fiber, ensuring durability without added bulk.

At just 7.6 ounces per pole, they are practically weightless during hikes while maintaining their sturdiness. The inclusion of quick-lock mechanisms allows for effortless adjustments, enabling users to extend the poles from 24” to 53”, catering to various heights and terrain requirements.

Additionally, their compact design makes them perfect for travel, with supplementary accessories such as rubber tip protectors, pole connectors, and mud baskets enhancing their adaptability.

Padded straps contribute to enhanced grip comfort and stability, reducing both fatigue and the risk of accidentally dropping the poles during use.

Pros:

•  Utilizing lightweight carbon fiber guarantees durability without compromising on weight.
•  Adjustable quick locks provide effortless customization to suit users of different heights.
•  With their compact design and included accessories, these poles are travel-friendly and adaptable.

Cons:

•  Certain users might find the comfort provided by the padded straps inadequate for extended usage.
•  The grip’s limited cushioning could potentially result in discomfort during prolonged hikes.

 

MSR DynaLock Ascent Foldable Trekking Poles

MSR’s DynaLock Ascent Foldable Trekking Poles stand out as a preferred choice among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking dependable support on varied landscapes.

Crafted from a combination of kevlar-reinforced carbon fiber, these poles offer impressive strength without sacrificing weight, ensuring durability without compromise.

Their three-piece construction allows for swift deployment and convenient folding, making them an excellent addition to compact backpacks.

Equipped with the DynaLock mechanism, these poles feature tool-free tension adjustment and a generous 20 cm range for personalized pole length, catering to individual preferences effortlessly. The lightweight EVA foam grips, accompanied by an extended lower grip, enhance comfort during extended hikes while providing adaptability for diverse terrain.

While these poles excel in portability, some users may perceive the collapsed size as slightly bulky. Nevertheless, their exceptional construction and versatile design establish them as a reliable choice for a wide range of hiking expeditions.

Pros:

•  Dependable support provided by ultralight kevlar-reinforced carbon fiber construction.
•  Enhanced usability with the DynaLock mechanism, enabling easy and tool-free adjustment.
•  Comfort and versatility during hikes ensured by lightweight EVA foam grips, featuring an extended lower grip.

Cons:

•  Some users may still find the collapsed size somewhat cumbersome.

 

LEKI Khumbu Lite Aluminum Trekking Poles

LEKI’s Khumbu Lite Aluminum Trekking Poles are meticulously crafted to meet the diverse requirements of outdoor enthusiasts, offering a fusion of durability and comfort.

Constructed entirely from alloy, these trekking poles offer robust yet lightweight support for demanding hiking ventures. The adjustable length, spanning from 100 to 135 cm, can be easily customized via the Dual Speed Lock Plus mechanism, ensuring swift and secure adjustments tailored to terrain conditions and individual preferences.

Engineered to contour to your hand’s natural shape, the Aergon Cor-Tec Grip provides ergonomic comfort for extended use. Complementing this, the super-soft Lock Security Strap 2.0 delivers a firm grip without causing any discomfort.

Featuring ergonomic handles, rapid length adjusters, and gentle straps, these poles prioritize both comfort and usability. Furthermore, their impressively lightweight design enhances the overall convenience of hiking experiences.

However, some users may face challenges with comprehending the provided instructions, which could potentially impede the initial setup and adjustment process.

Pros:

•  Reliable durability provided by robust alloy construction, balancing strength without adding excess weight.
•  Versatile hiking experience facilitated by the Dual Speed Lock Plus mechanism, allowing for swift and secure length adjustments.

Cons:

•  Certain users may encounter difficulties interpreting the instructions, potentially impacting the setup and adjustment process.

 

Urban Poling Trekking Poles

The Urban Poles Series 300, created by Urban Poling, represent premier Nordic walking sticks ideal for year-round fitness enthusiasts, ensuring durability, high performance, and comfort for individuals of all skill levels.

Constructed from high-quality aluminum, these poles not only provide durability but also aid in activating core muscles, resulting in increased calorie burn and reduced strain on the wrists.

The ergonomically designed CoreGrip enhances the activation of core muscles, promoting better walking techniques and maximizing the overall fitness benefits.

With adjustable height settings and a collapsible design, these poles cater to users of varying heights and offer convenient storage and transport options.

Feedback from users during testing indicated that the poles were easy to adjust, adapting swiftly to correct usage and delivering noticeable benefits during physical activities.

Featuring advanced attributes such as a reliable locking mechanism, ergonomic rubber grip, carbide metal tip, and detachable boot tips, these poles ensure usability across a wide range of terrains.

However, it’s worth noting that the absence of included straps might impact stability and comfort during use.

Pros:

•  Utilizing lightweight aluminum guarantees longevity and reinforcement for various year-round fitness endeavors.
•  The ergonomically designed CoreGrip triggers core muscle engagement, fostering calorie expenditure and mitigating wrist strain.
•  Tailored height adjustments and a collapsible structure provide adaptability and ease for individuals with diverse statures.

Cons:

•  The omission of provided straps could potentially undermine stability and comfort levels throughout usage.

Conclusion

Top-rated hiking poles in 2024 embody a fusion of innovation, resilience, and practicality, catering to the varied needs of outdoor aficionados. Whether you’re a leisurely day-tripper or a seasoned backpacker, these indispensable companions offer advantages surpassing mere stability.

Hiking poles not only relieve strain on joints but also refine posture and equilibrium, enriching your hiking escapades in myriad ways. Their adaptability extends to facilitating stream crossings, serving as tent supports, or even morphing into impromptu selfie sticks for capturing breathtaking summit panoramas.

Thus, as you prepare to traverse the trails, it’s vital to contemplate selecting the optimal hiking poles tailored to your inclinations and trekking style. Armed with the right equipment, you can venture into outdoor pursuits with assurance, primed to surmount any challenges encountered along the way.

For honing fundamental backpacking proficiencies, explore our comprehensive guide outlining the indispensable skills every backpacker should master.