The poor old trekking pole is the forgotten hiking accessory that is unfortunately as misunderstood as I was in high school. Hang in there buddy, I got you! Whilst it might be more fashionable to talk about the newest pair of waterproof boots or an all singing all dancing hiking backpack, the fact is, a hiking pole is the unsung hero of any trek.
Let’s be honest, bad knees are a bitch and a common one at that. My Grandma had a saying when I would work tables with her: “save your legs.” If only I had listened, because my knees are fu*ked! Let me tell you, prevention is better than a cure, but the best trekking poles offer both, at least. Researchers have actually measured this; studies have found poles can cut the force going through your knees by as much as 25% (I can’t find the source for this claim now so this may have been idle bar chat…)
Not all trekking poles were created equal though, and not everyone needs the most expensive pair out there either. I’ve learned the difference the hard way: 8,000+ miles on trails, an Appalachian Trail thru-hike attempt, and weeks hammering poles through the Pakistani Karakoram, testing damn near every set I could get my hands on along the way. It was a wild ride, and I’m here to tell you my fascinating findings.
So tuck in and get ready for my definitive guide to the best hiking poles of 2026.
Updated July 2026: We cut a duplicate listing, re-checked every pole is still in production, refreshed prices, and added a new section.
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Best Poles for Backpacking and Hiking
Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork
- Price > $229.95
- Weight > 17 oz.
- Grip > Cork
Montem Ultra Strong
- Price > $74.95
- Weight > 19.2 oz.
- Grip > Foam
Leki Makalu Lite Cork Trekking Poles
- Price > $159.95
- Weight > 1 lb. 2 oz.
- Grip > Cork
Black Diamond Trail Back
- Price > $99.95
- Weight > 1 lb. 1 oz.
- Grip > Rubber
Black Diamond Pursuit FLZ Trekking Poles
- Price > $169.95
- Weight > S/M: 1 lb. 1.4 oz. / M/L: 1 lb. 2.4 oz.
- Grip > Cork
Black Diamond Distance Z
- Price > $219.95
- Weight > 1.2 ounces – 12.6 ounces
- Grip > Foam
Leki Legacy Lite AS Trekking Poles
- Price > $109.95
- Weight > 1 lb. 2.4 oz.
- Grip > Cork/Rubber
Gossamer Gear LT5
- Price > $195
- Weight > 10.6 oz.
- Grip > Foam
#1 Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork
Best Overall Poles
- Price: $229.95
- Weight per pair: 17 oz.
- Type: Telescoping (lever lock)
- Shaft Material: Carbon
- Grip: Cork
- Gender: Unisex
The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork strikes one of the best balances between low weight and long-term durability, making it our top overall trekking pole. The carbon fibre shafts are light enough for big days on the trail, yet feel reassuringly solid under load, while Black Diamond’s FlickLock system is among the most reliable we’ve tested. Add in comfortable cork grips and interchangeable trekking and snow baskets, and you’ve got a pole that’s equally at home on summer backpacking trips or winter hikes.
What really impressed our team was how confidence-inspiring these poles felt. The cork grips remained comfortable after hours on the trail, the locks never slipped, and the stiff carbon construction provided excellent support on steep descents—particularly appreciated by those of us with less-than-perfect knees. They simply disappear into the background and let you focus on the hike.
The biggest trade-off is that these aren’t built for ounce-counters. If you’re attempting a fast-and-light thru-hike where every gram matters, there are lighter carbon poles available. But for most backpackers, we’d happily accept the small weight penalty in exchange for a tougher, more dependable pole that’s likely to last for years.
- Durable carbon shaft
- Black Diamond warranty included
- Packable
- Not an ultralight trekking pole
- Expensive
#2 Montem Ultra Strong
Best Budget Hiking Poles
- Price: $74.95
- Weight per pair: 19.2 oz.
- Type: Telescoping (lever lock)
- Shaft Material: Aluminum
- Grip: Foam
- Gender: Unisex
If you’re looking for your first pair of trekking poles, the Montem Ultra Strong is one of the best value options around. Built from durable aluminium with comfortable foam grips and dependable lever locks, they deliver everything most hikers need without the premium price tag. They also feature extended grip sections, making it easy to choke up on steep climbs without constantly adjusting the pole length.
What impressed our team most was just how tough they felt. We put them through plenty of rough terrain, and they shrugged off the abuse far better than we’d expected from a budget-friendly pair. They may lack the refinement of premium models, but they perform exactly as good trekking poles should: they’re reliable, comfortable and confidence-inspiring on the trail.
The trade-off is weight. They’re noticeably heavier than high-end carbon fibre poles, so long-distance hikers and ounce-counters will probably want to invest in something lighter. But if you’re a weekend hiker, occasional backpacker, or simply want a bombproof pair of poles without spending a fortune, the Montem Ultra Strong is an excellent buy.
Note: After testing the Montem Ultra Strong trekking poles, I am really pleased with their quality. Check out my full review!
- Affordable price
- Questionable ‘toughness’ of design
- Not suitable for super abusive hikes.
#3 Leki Makalu Lite Cork Trekking Poles
Best Multi-Season Trekking Poles
- Price:$159.95
- Weight per pair: 1 lb. 2 oz.
- Type:External Lever Lock
- Shaft Material: HTS 6.5 aluminum
- Grip: Cork
- Gender: Unisex
If you want one pair of trekking poles to cover everything from summer backpacking trips to winter hikes, the Leki Makalu Lite Cork is a hard act to beat. Lightweight yet reassuringly robust, they strike an excellent balance between comfort, durability and packability. The cork grips are comfortable over long distances, while Leki’s proven locking system inspires confidence on everything from muddy trails to snowy mountain paths.
Our team particularly liked just how versatile these poles felt. They handled a wide range of terrain with ease, packed down neatly when not in use, and were light enough that we barely noticed them strapped to a backpack. If you’re only planning to own one set of poles, these are capable of tackling almost any adventure you throw at them.
The trade-off is that they don’t include an anti-shock system. If you suffer from sore knees or regularly carry heavy loads on long descents, a shock-absorbing model may offer a little more comfort. For everyone else, the Makalu Lite Cork delivers a simple, dependable design that’s built to perform year-round.
- Ideal for year round use
- Highly packable
- Durable
- Heavier than ot trekking poles
- No shock absorber may be a deal breaker for some backpackers
#4 Black Diamond Trail Back
Most Durable Hiking Poles
- Price: $99.95
- Weight per pair: 1 lb. 1 oz.
- Type:External Lever Lock
- Shaft Material: Aluminium
- Grip: Rubber
- Gender: Unisex
The Black Diamond Trail Back proves you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a dependable set of trekking poles. Built with durable aluminium shafts, Black Diamond’s trusted FlickLock adjustment system and comfortable ergonomic grips, they deliver much of the premium brand’s reliability at a far more accessible price. They’re an excellent choice for beginners, casual hikers and budget-conscious backpackers alike.
Our team was impressed by just how capable these poles felt on the trail. They handled rough terrain with ease, inspired confidence on steep descents and felt tough enough to withstand years of weekend adventures. Unless you’re directly comparing them to Black Diamond’s premium models, you’re unlikely to feel like you’re missing out.
The trade-off is weight. The aluminium construction makes them noticeably heavier than carbon fibre alternatives, while the rubber grips aren’t quite as comfortable as cork on long, sweaty days. If you’re planning a months-long thru-hike, it’s worth investing in something lighter. But for most hikers looking for a durable, great-value pair of trekking poles, the Trail Back is an easy recommendation.
If you are a casual hiker or planning to go on a long-term backpacking trip say to South East Asia, the Trail Back trekking poles are the best budget trekking poles I have come across.
- Competitive price
- Black Diamond warranty included
- Quite Heavy
- Rubber grips can be uncomfortable for some people
#5 Black Diamond Pursuit FLZ Trekking Poles
Best Collapsible Poles
- Price: $169.95
- Weight per pair: S/M: 1 lb. 1.4 oz. / M/L: 1 lb. 2.4 oz.
- Type: Folding
- Shaft Material: Aluminum
- Grip: Cork
- Gender: Unisex
If packability is your priority, the Black Diamond Pursuit FLZ is the folding trekking pole to beat. I carried these for weeks through Pakistan’s Karakoram and Himalayas, where they proved impressively sturdy while packing down small enough to disappear inside my daypack. When you’re constantly switching between buses, airports and trailheads, that compact size is a genuine advantage.
Despite the folding design, the Pursuit FLZ doesn’t compromise on trail performance. The cork grips are comfortable over long days, the FlickLock system is quick and reliable, and the poles provide excellent stability when carrying a heavy backpack. They deploy in seconds too, making them ideal for travellers who aren’t hiking every minute of their trip but still want proper mountain-worthy support when they need it.
The trade-off is adjustability. Folding poles offer a smaller adjustment range than traditional telescopic models, making them a little less versatile if you’re regularly sharing poles or constantly changing length for different terrain. But if compact storage and fast deployment matter more than maximum adjustability, the Pursuit FLZ is an outstanding choice.
Note: Check out my super in-depth Black Diamond Alpine FLZ trekking poles review here, an earlier model of the Black Diamond Pursuit FLZ Trekking Poles.
- Folding poles have superior packability
- Black Diamond warranty included
- Expensive
- Cork grips started to wear out after limited use.
#6 Black Diamond Distance Z
Best Collapsible Hiking Poles Runnerup
- Price: $219.95
- Weight per pair: 11.2 ounces – 12.6 ounces
- Type: Folding
- Shaft Material: Aluminum
- Grip: Foam
- Gender: Unisex
The Black Diamond Distance Z delivers much of what makes the premium Pursuit FLZ so good, but at a more approachable price. The folding aluminium construction is only slightly heavier, yet remains impressively strong and packs down small enough to tuck inside most travel backpacks. If you want the convenience of collapsible poles without paying for carbon fibre, these are an excellent value pick.
Our team found they offered almost the same trail performance as their more expensive sibling. They fold away in seconds, feel reassuringly stable on uneven ground, and the lightweight foam grips remain comfortable over long days on the trail. Unless you’re hiking huge distances, you’re unlikely to notice the modest weight increase.
The trade-off is that the Distance Z isn’t adjustable. That won’t bother many hikers, but it does make them less versatile for steep ascents and descents or for sharing between people of different heights. If adjustability is important, a traditional telescopic pole is a better choice. If compactness and value are your priorities, however, the Distance Z is hard to beat.
- Foldable poles have superior packability
- Black Diamond warranty included
- Non-adjustable.
#7 Leki Legacy Lite AS Trekking Poles
Best Anti-Shock Poles
- Price: $109.95
- Weight per pair: 1 lb. 2.4 oz.
- Type: Telescoping (lever lock)
- Shaft Material: Aluminium
- Grip: Cork/Rubber
- Gender: Unisex
If you regularly hike with a heavy backpack or suffer from sore knees on long descents, the Leki Legacy Lite AS is one of the best anti-shock trekking poles you can buy. The built-in suspension noticeably softens repeated impacts, making steep, rocky terrain feel less punishing on your joints. After carrying heavy loads through mountain terrain, I’m convinced a good anti-shock system can make a real difference over a long day on the trail.
Our team was equally impressed by their rugged build quality. They felt reassuringly sturdy under load, the locking system remained dependable throughout testing, and the comfortable grips inspired confidence on everything from loose scree to muddy descents. If durability and comfort are your priorities, these are hard to fault.
The trade-off is weight. The anti-shock mechanism adds a few extra grams compared to rigid trekking poles, making them a less attractive option for ultralight hikers chasing every ounce. But if comfort and joint protection matter more than shaving weight from your pack, the Legacy Lite AS is well worth considering.
- Competitive price
- Dynamic suspension system (anti-shock)
- Heavy compared to similar types of trekking poles
Now, you could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.
So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card! REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉
Buy on REI!#8 Gossamer Gear LT5
Best Ultralight Poles
- Price: $195.00
- Weight per pair: 10.6 oz.
- Type: Telescoping (twist lock)
- Shaft Material: Carbon Fiber
- Grip: Foam
- Gender: Unisex
If shaving every possible gram from your pack is the goal, the Gossamer Gear LT5 is one of the lightest trekking poles money can buy. Built from carbon fibre with a refreshingly simple design, they deliver impressive strength without unnecessary complexity. The comfortable foam grips and minimal weight make a noticeable difference on long-distance hikes, where every ounce adds up over thousands of steps.
Our team was genuinely impressed by how capable these poles felt in the real world. Despite their featherweight construction, they remained stable under load and handled demanding trails far better than we’d expected. For thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers, they’re an easy recommendation.
The trade-off is that these poles prioritise weight savings above all else. If you’re regularly scrambling over rocky terrain, bushwhacking, or tend to be hard on your gear, a heavier aluminium or more robust carbon pole will likely prove more durable over the long term. But if your priority is covering big miles with the lightest kit possible, the LT5 is tough to beat.
- Ultralight
- Simplistic design
- Expensive
- Questionable long-term durablity
How to Choose the Best Trekking Poles
If you’ve never hiked with trekking poles before, then you’ll probably wonder what all the fuss is about. Then you’ll use them on a long descent and wonder how you ever managed without them. So you have been warned….
Good trekking poles improve balance, reduce the impact on your knees and ankles, and help spread the workload across your whole body, especially when carrying a heavy ole pack. After thousands of trail miles, they’re now a permanent part of our hiking kit.
Weight vs Durability
The biggest trade-off is weight versus strength. Carbon fibre poles are lighter and reduce arm fatigue on long hikes, making them a favourite among thru-hikers. Aluminium poles are heavier but generally tougher, cheaper, and more forgiving if they get knocked about.
If you’re heading out every weekend or tackling long-distance trails, lightweight poles are worth considering. For occasional backpacking trips, a durable aluminium pair will often offer better value.
Locking Mechanism
Modern trekking poles typically use either lever locks or twist locks. While both work, lever locks have become the industry standard because they’re quicker to adjust and generally more reliable. If you’re buying a new pair today, we’d recommend sticking with lever locks.
Grip Material
You’ll usually find three grip options:
- Cork – Comfortable, naturally wicks sweat and moulds to your hand over time.
- Foam – Lightweight, comfortable and performs well in wet conditions.
- Rubber – Durable but can become slippery or uncomfortable on long hikes.
Any of the first two are excellent choices—the best option often comes down to personal preference.
Anti-Shock or Rigid?
Some trekking poles include internal suspension to absorb impact on steep descents. They can be kinder on your joints but add a little extra weight. If you regularly hike with a heavy pack or have sore knees, anti-shock poles are well worth considering. Ultralight hikers will usually prefer the simplicity and lower weight of rigid poles.
Don’t Overlook the Basics
Whichever poles you choose, make sure they have:
- A comfortable grip.
- A reliable locking mechanism.
- Adjustable length.
- Replaceable baskets and tips.
- A balance of weight and durability that matches the type of hiking you actually do.
Boys And Girls
Finally, it shouldn’t need to pointed out that men and women tend to have different body types, body shapes and different areas of physical strength and weakness. As such (more often than not…) men are better off with men’s trekking poles and women are better off with women’s trekking poles as they are designed to support the corresponding physique.
End of the day, just try pair that suits your style of hiking rather than chasing the lightest or most expensive option. The best trekking poles are simply the ones you’ll still be happily using a few years down the trail.
FAQ about the Best Trekking Poles
Photo: Elias Braunschweiler.
Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:
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Final Thoughts
There you have it, my fellow trekking friends — you made it to the end.
Choosing a pair of hiking poles is harder than it should be, but you’re now armed with everything you need to pick based on your own knees, budget, and trekking style.
If you want the short version one last time: for the all-around best poles money can buy, go with my top pick, the Black Diamond Cork Poles.
If the unisex fit doesn’t work for you, the Women’s Alpine Carbon Cork is the same brilliant pole with grips and lengths sized for smaller frames.
And if you’re a properly broke backpacker, the Montem Ultra Strong delivers 90% of the experience for a third of the price, buy them, thrash them, upgrade later if you ever feel the need. (Spoiler: plenty of us never did.)
Whichever you choose, I can promise you’ll feel the difference the first time you point a pair of badass sticks at a long descent. Your knees will thank you in twenty years, mine are still filing complaints about the years before I listened.
See you on the trail, amigos.
*Author’s note: This was not a sponsored post. I did not receive any free gear from any companies to write this review. Thus, I had no agenda or particular bias whilst crafting this article. All thoughts expressed within are indeed my own opinion based on my own experiences. Cheers!
Nice Site my friend, I have a question for you , I have one bad knee, I have to put quite a bit of pressure on the left side pole, I broke 2 alreday, what would you suggest as a stronger pole that I could rely on…thanks in advance.
I have an offbeat question. I am obese and have the not unexpected total ruin of my knees as a result. They have recently deteriorated to the point I am now using a cane, but I have not been happy with my overall stability and support. From my backpacking days, I happened to think that maybe a pair of trekking poles might be better for general mobility. Chris, do you or anyone else have any suggestions as to poles that can support an obese person’s weight?
Thanks!
Hi Steve, good question. I think going with a more heavy-duty pole is the way to go (as opposed to a set where lightweight materials are used. Carbon fiber poles are great because they are light, but in terms of weight they are able to support – I think going with aluminum poles would be the better option. Typically I don’t see weight ratings issued by companies for any given pole, but from experience, carbon fiber poles are not as burly as aluminum models. Good luck and happy hiking!
What trekking poles would you suggest for walking the Camino de Santiago? Thanks!
Any trekking poles really though you probably won’t need anything too specialized outside of the Pyrenees 🙂
Well done “easy to follow” Guide. Thx Chris!
Happy to help! Hope you found the right trekking poles for yourself!