A trekking pole, often referred to as a hiking pole or a walking pole, is similar to a ski pole but designed specifically for hiking. Typically used in pairs, trekking poles provide stability and support on various terrains.
Do I Need Trekking Poles?
Using trekking poles can significantly enhance your hiking experience, especially during steep ascents and descents. They help alleviate stress on your knees by redistributing some of the load, making downhill walking and running less taxing. This is particularly important since descending is an eccentric exercise that challenges your muscle mechanics. By offloading weight from your legs, you can enjoy greater comfort and endurance.
On flat terrain, poles can be angled to propel you forward, acting like turbo boosters during speed hikes and making your movement more efficient while reducing strain on your legs.
If you're carrying a heavier backpack, trekking poles can help maintain your stability, especially on steep inclines and declines. They’re also invaluable for stream crossings, providing support as you navigate slippery rocks. Even if you don't plan to use them, having poles in your pack can be helpful for testing water depth or assessing the muddy bottom of a stream.
In winter conditions, trekking poles offer added balance on snowy and icy trails, and they can be used to test the stability of ice when crossing frozen streams.
Additionally, when hiking through areas with plants like poison ivy or nettles, poles allow you to gently push them aside, helping you avoid unwanted contact.
Trekking poles can also serve as tarp supports, gear dryers (bring extra cordage for a drying line inside your tent), or even makeshift camera tripods. Additionally, trekking poles can be used to set up a porch space, gauge water depth, and check for potential hazards like slippery surprises underfoot, adding an extra layer of safety to your hike. Learn more camping gear hacks here.
Lastly, trekking poles can double as supports for an ultralight shelter, saving weight in your pack. Even on day hikes, carrying a lightweight shelter and poles prepares you for unexpected emergencies. View our selection of trekking pole tents here.
What is the Ideal Trekking Pole length?
The length of a hiking pole is crucial for effective use. An optimal length allows you to utilise the pole's benefits fully. Ideally, when you hold the pole, it should be perpendicular to the ground, and your upper and lower arms should form a 90-degree angle. For precise calculations, check out this handy tool from LEKI.
Many trekking poles come in adjustable lengths, which makes this easy to achieve. However, some are sold in fixed lengths or in ranges of sizes. Use these guidelines to help find the right length poles for you:
For Adjustable-Length Trekking Poles
- If you're taller than about 6 feet, choose trekking poles that have a maximum length of at least 51 inches.
- If you are shorter than 6 feet tall, you'll be able to shorten most adjustable trekking poles enough to make them work for you.
For Fixed-Length Trekking Poles:
Use the chart below and consult the manufacturer's size chart that's specific to the poles you're looking at.
|
Height |
Suggested Pole Length |
|
<5 ft. 1 in. |
100cm (39 in) |
|
5 ft. 1 in - 5ft. 7 in. |
110cm (43 in) |
|
5 ft. 8 in - 5ft. 11 in. |
120cm (47 in) |
|
6 ft+ |
130cm (51 in) |
Adjusting trekking pole length
When using adjustable trekking poles, setting the correct length is crucial to avoid strain on your arms, shoulders, back, and neck. For general hiking, adjust the poles so that when you hold one with the tip on the ground near your foot, your arm forms a 90° angle at the elbow. This is typically the ideal length for most hikes.
If your poles have three sections, start by setting the top adjustment to the middle of its range. Then, adjust the bottom section to achieve the correct angle for your arm. This way, you can easily fine-tune the length using only the top adjustment while on the trail.
For long uphill sections, shorten each pole by about 5-10 cm to enhance leverage and secure pole plants. The steeper the incline, the more you should shorten the poles. Your trekking poles should assist your ascent without causing shoulder strain; if your shoulders feel unnaturally lifted or pressed against your backpack straps, consider shortening the poles further.
Conversely, for long downhill sections, lengthen each pole by 5-10 cm from your general hiking setting. This adjustment helps maintain an upright posture for better balance.
When traversing, adjust the pole on the uphill side shorter and the one on the downhill side longer as needed to enhance comfort and stability.
Trekking Pole Lock Mechanisms
All trekking poles feature locking mechanisms to prevent slipping while in use, whether they’re adjustable or not. For non-adjustable poles, these mechanisms allow you to extend them to full length for use and collapse them for easy storage. Adjustable poles function similarly, but their locks also enable you to modify the length of two or three interlocking sections, typically ranging from 24 to 55 inches, so you can tailor the poles to your height and the terrain.
Most trekking poles utilise one of four primary locking mechanisms:
- External Lever Lock: This clamp-like mechanism allows for quick and easy length adjustments, even when you're wearing gloves
- Push-Button Lock: Poles with this mechanism snap into place with a single pull, and can be collapsed by pressing a button. Some push-button poles do not offer length adjustments.
- Twist Lock: This system uses an expander and screw setup, providing consistent strength and durability.
- Combination Lock: Some poles blend various locking mechanisms to achieve a balance of strength, lightweight design, and user-friendliness. For instance, a pole might feature an external lever lock on the upper shaft and a twist lock on the lower shaft.
Keep in mind that all locking mechanisms can loosen over time, so it's essential to double-check their security before heading out. For lever locks, be sure to verify the clamping tension as well.
Trekking Pole Grips
Many trekking poles feature ergonomic grips designed with a 15° corrective angle, ensuring your wrists remain in a neutral and comfortable position during use.
The materials used for grips can significantly impact comfort and performance:
Cork: Excellent for resisting moisture from sweaty hands, cork grips reduce vibration and conform well to your hand's shape. If you tend to sweat or hike in hot weather, cork is an ideal choice.
Foam: Soft to the touch and moisture-absorbing, foam grips provide a comfortable feel but may wear out faster than other materials.
Rubber: Great for cold-weather activities, rubber grips insulate against cold, shock, and vibration. However, they can cause chafing or blisters on sweaty hands, making them less suitable for warm-weather hikes.
Categories of Trekking Poles
Foldable Hiking Poles:
Ultralight and compact, these poles are perfect for long-distance hikers looking to travel light. When folded, they measure around 45 cm, making them easy to store in your backpack.
Telescopic Hiking Poles:
These poles offer extra stability and sturdiness, though they don't fit inside your pack. They can be easily attached to the outside and are ideal for mountain descents or river crossings. Lightweight carbon versions are also available.
Performance-Oriented Hiking Poles:
Designed for those who push their limits, these poles are excellent for trail runners or anyone seeking to achieve a Fastest Known Time (FKT). They feature ergonomic handles that ensure a secure grip during fast movements.
Folding Pole or Telescopic Pole?
Folding poles are a game-changer for hikers, offering a much smaller pack size (around 40 cm) and lighter weight compared to standard hiking poles. They're easy to stow in your backpack during climbs and, thanks to modern technology, are both reliable and user-friendly. On the other hand, three-piece or telescopic poles, the classics of hiking, tend to be more budget-friendly. Although they come with a larger pack size, they offer superior stability, making them a solid choice for more demanding terrain.
How to walk with trekking poles?
The technique for using trekking poles differs from that of Nordic walking poles. With trekking poles, you should always walk with two. Place the poles directly in front of your feet—not too far forward—and alternate stepping with your legs and poles to maintain balance.
In Nordic walking, the technique is different. Stand relaxed with slightly bent elbows, gripping your poles firmly. Push back with a swinging motion similar to arm movement while walking without poles. Ensure the poles are angled backward, providing stability and power with each step.
Mastering the correct technique can enhance your training and engage your entire body. Embrace the benefits of walking with poles!
What's the difference between Trekking poles and walking poles?
While it may seem like all poles serve the same purpose, there are key differences. Trekking poles are designed for hiking and provide extra support during climbs and descents. They are typically adjustable and come with specialised tips for various terrains.
Nordic walking poles, on the other hand, cater to a specific walking technique that engages the entire body. They are lightweight and often feature a strap to connect the pole to your hand.
Trail running poles are lightweight and collapsible, designed to offer stability during steep climbs or descents.
How to choose the right hiking pole
With so many options available—carbon, lightweight, foldable, telescopic—it can be overwhelming to choose the right trekking pole. The best choice depends on your individual needs and the specific conditions of your hike. Here, we present our selection of trekking poles from Leki, designed to meet a variety of hiking requirements.
Leki Khumbu Lite Trekking Poles
When hiking hut-to-hut trails like the Tour du Mont Blanc and other mountain trails, it's beneficial to support your knees as much as possible during descents. Weighing only 246g per pole, the Leki Khumbu Lite Trekking poles are crafted from high-strength aluminium, ensuring durability without compromising on weight.
The ergonomic Aergon CorTec grip enhances comfort, while the Speed Lock+ system allows for quick length adjustments, so you can adapt on the go. With no slippage during use, the Khumbu Lite is your reliable companion for technical paths, minimising impact on your knees.
Leki Makalu FX Carbon Trekking Poles
For long hikes like the Pacific Crest Trail or Via Alpina, lightweight foldable carbon poles are essential. The Leki Makalu FX Carbon trekking pole is an excellent companion for mountain adventures, featuring the redesigned Aergon Air grip for enhanced comfort and control. Its hollow-core technology ensures a lightweight build without sacrificing support. The fully rubberised grip provides a secure hold on descents, while the inclined angle optimises wrist placement. A grip extension offers an additional hand position for uphill climbs, and the Lock Security Strap Skin 4.0 allows for a custom fit.
At just 243g per pole, the Makalu FX Carbon is built for reliability and performance. These folding poles consist of three segments linked by a cord, providing strength and ease of transport. Notably, the Aergon Air Grip handles are ergonomically designed for maximum comfort. While ultralight poles typically weigh under 1 lb, the Makalu FX Carbons are on the higher end at 17.9 oz per pair, yet still lighter than most aluminium poles (18-22 oz). The attention to detail, from the geometric handle pattern to the Speed Lock 2+ lever system, ensures quality and functionality.
Leki Makalu Lite Trekking Poles
The Makalu Lite is the lighter version of the classic Makalu, designed for mountain adventures without compromising reliability. It features the newly redesigned Aergon Air grip for enhanced comfort and control, incorporating thoughtful ergonomic improvements. Thanks to innovative hollow-core technology, the Makalu Lite balances lightweight construction with supportive surfaces for your hands. The rubberised grip back ensures maximum control during descents, while its inclined angle promotes optimal wrist alignment for precise pole placement, boosting safety and confidence.
At 466 grams per pair, the Makalu Lite isn’t the lightest option available, but its rugged construction and adjustability make it perfect for rough terrain. The contoured foam handle is comfortable, complemented by a secondary grip with crossed grooves for better hold. The silky wrist strap is among the most comfortable on the market.
The poles offer an impressive 14 inches (35 cm) of length adjustability, accommodating various users and activities, making them great for families or rentals. A textured plastic knob allows for easy tightening or loosening of the lever locks without needing additional tools, a feature we'd love to see on all trekking poles.
Leki Makalu Trekking Poles
The Leki Makalu Trekking Pole is a reliable trekking pole, perfect for any hiking adventure. Its innovative Aergon Air grip enhances comfort and control, while the unique hollow core technology combines lightweight design with supportive surfaces tailored to ergonomic needs. The fully rubberised grip head provides excellent traction on descents, and the inclined angle promotes optimal wrist alignment for precise pole placement. Constructed from durable aluminium, the Makalu ensures exceptional stability on outdoor excursions.
Featuring LEKI's Speed Lock 2 system, the Makalu allows for quick and easy adjustments, even with thick gloves. This system is 30% smaller and 20% lighter than its predecessor, boasting the highest holding force of any external locking system for added safety.
Leki Sherpa Trekking Poles
The Leki Sherpa trekking pole is engineered for safety and stability on challenging high-altitude mountain tours. This three-section pole features the innovative Aergon Air grip, redesigned for superior comfort and control. Its unique hollow core technology offers a lightweight build while providing large, supportive surfaces tailored to ergonomic needs. The rubberised grip back ensures excellent traction on descents, and the inclined angle aids in optimal wrist alignment for added safety.
Weighing just 279 g and made from durable aluminium, the Sherpa is an essential companion for mountain excursions. Although not the lightest or most compact option, these poles excel in harsh conditions and support significant weight, making them ideal for rugged terrain and heavy packs.
Adjustable between 110 cm (43 in) and 145 cm (57 in), the Sherpa is the longest pole in our roundup, providing extra length beneficial for tall users and deep snow navigation. Its solid construction and minimal ‘springiness’ offer good tactile feedback, ensuring secure footing on varied terrain.
While carbon fibre is typically lighter, aluminium is a better choice for extreme cold and rough handling, as it bends instead of breaking. This durability makes the Sherpa a top choice for tough expeditions.
Leki Women’s Cressida Trekking Poles
Experience safety and comfort in the mountains with the Leki Cressida trekking pole, designed with the new Aergon Air Compact grip, which is 12% shorter to accommodate smaller hands. Its innovative hollow core technology combines lightweight construction with supportive surfaces to meet ergonomic needs. The rubberised grip head provides excellent traction on downhill treks, while the inclined angle ensures optimal wrist positioning for a more comfortable hiking experience.
Previously marketed as 'women's specific,' the Cressida poles are suitable for smaller adults, featuring a cork-like grip for a warm feel and a rubber top for secure handling on steep descents. These three-section telescopic poles utilise dual Lever Locks for continuous length adjustment, with a packed size of 64 cm. The slightly smaller diameter tubing helps reduce weight, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable yet lightweight trekking pole.
Leki Women’s Lhasa Trekking Poles
The Leki Lhasa trekking poles are the women-specific version of the classic Leki Legacy poles, featuring lightweight yet durable aluminium shafts and adjustable lengths for stability on your adventures. They’re also suitable for men with smaller hands, making them versatile for various users. Ideal for Nordic walking, they excel at navigating trails with tree roots, rocks, ice, and fallen leaves.
Designed for comfort, the Lhasa poles include an anatomically shaped EVOCON grip and an adjustable PA safety strap with a rounded support surface, enhancing grip during downhill treks. With the Speed Lock+ system, these three-section poles can be easily adjusted from 90 cm to 125 cm, ensuring a perfect fit for every hiker. Experience the exceptional stability and versatility of the Lhasa on your next mountain excursion!
Tips for Walking with Trekking Poles?
Now that you’ve chosen the right poles and ensured they fit properly, you’re ready to hit the trail! Using trekking poles is straightforward, and here are some tips to enhance your stability and comfort:
- Alternate Your Poles and Legs: Most hikers quickly adapt to a rhythm of planting the pole in time with the opposite foot—right foot with left pole, and vice versa. This technique helps redistribute weight from your legs while utilising the strength of your arms, offering greater stability. If you lose your rhythm, simply lift your poles off the ground for a moment and reset before continuing.
- Walk Naturally: When using trekking poles, maintain a natural arm swing and walk as if you’re not holding them. Angle the poles slightly behind you to use them as a springboard for forward movement. Avoid driving them into the ground forcefully, as this can cause unnecessary strain on your arms and shoulders.
- Double Plant for Stability: On steep climbs or descents, consider double planting both poles for added stability. If it feels comfortable, plant both poles simultaneously and take two steps forward before lifting and planting again.
- Mind Your Pole Height: When double planting, ensure your poles are at the correct height to avoid straining your shoulders. Adjusting your grip can help you avoid pulling too hard on ascents or pushing back too much on descents.
With these tips, you'll navigate your hiking adventures more confidently and comfortably!
Final thoughts
Trekking poles are more than just trail accessories; they are essential tools that can enhance your hiking experience, providing stability, support, and comfort on a variety of terrains. Whether you’re traversing steep descents, embarking on long-distance hikes, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, the right pair of trekking poles can make a significant difference.
With options like the Leki Khumbu Lite for durability, the lightweight Makalu FX Carbon for efficiency, and specialised designs like the Cressida for smaller hands, there’s a perfect pole for everyone. Investing in quality trekking poles can help reduce fatigue, improve balance, and protect your joints. So, before you hit the trails, consider adding a pair of trekking poles to your gear collection.
We offer a diverse selection of trekking poles from more top brands like Leki, including Black Diamond, MountainSmith, and Fizan.
Happy trails!