Best Hiking Poles for Long Treks

Long-distance trekking can be an exhilarating yet physically demanding adventure. Whether you’re traversing rugged mountain terrain, navigating forest trails, or trekking across uneven landscapes, having the right gear can make all the difference. Among the essential tools for any serious hiker are hiking poles—an often overlooked but incredibly valuable piece of equipment. These poles provide stability, reduce strain on joints, improve balance, and enhance endurance on long treks.

In this guide, we will delve into the key factors to consider when choosing the best hiking poles for long treks, explore different types, highlight the benefits, and review some of the best options available today.

Why Hiking Poles Matter for Long Treks

Long-distance hiking involves covering extensive miles on varied terrains, and the repetitive motion can take a toll on the body. Hiking poles alleviate the strain by distributing weight more evenly across the body, reducing the impact on knees, ankles, and hips. Here’s why they are an essential addition to any trek:

• Stability and Balance – Uneven ground, steep inclines, and rocky paths make balance a crucial factor. Hiking poles provide added support, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
• Reduced Joint Stress – Trekking over long distances can be hard on joints, particularly when descending steep slopes. Poles absorb some of the impact, making the trek easier on the knees and ankles.
• Increased Endurance – By engaging the upper body, hiking poles distribute the effort more evenly, reducing fatigue in the legs and allowing hikers to cover longer distances more comfortably.
• Improved Posture – Using poles encourages a more upright posture, which is especially beneficial when carrying a heavy backpack.
• Versatility in Terrain – Whether hiking through mud, snow, or rocky trails, trekking poles provide extra traction and support.

Key Features to Look for in Hiking Poles

When selecting hiking poles for long treks, understanding the different features can help in making an informed choice. The ideal hiking pole should be lightweight, durable, and adjustable to suit different terrains and personal preferences. Here’s what to consider:

1. Material Composition

• Aluminum – Known for its durability and resistance to bending, aluminum poles are a great choice for rugged trails and long-term use.
• Carbon Fiber – Lightweight and excellent at absorbing shocks, but more prone to snapping under excessive force.

2. Adjustability and Collapsibility

• Telescoping Poles – These poles can be adjusted to different lengths, making them versatile for various terrains and hiking styles.
• Folding Poles – More compact and lighter, these are perfect for backpackers who need to stow their poles when not in use.
• Fixed-Length Poles – While less adjustable, they are often lighter and more durable.

3. Grip Materials

• Cork – Absorbs sweat and molds to your hand over time, offering superior comfort.
• Foam – Soft and moisture-wicking, best for warm conditions.
• Rubber – Provides excellent insulation in cold weather but can cause discomfort due to friction in hot conditions.

4. Shock Absorption

• Spring-loaded shock absorbers – Reduce impact on downhill sections but add weight to the pole.
• Rigid poles without suspension – Lighter and preferred by those who want direct contact with the ground.

5. Locking Mechanisms

• Twist Locks – Require twisting to secure; simple but prone to slipping over time.
• Lever Locks – Easy to adjust and highly secure, often preferred for reliability.
• Push-button Locks – Quick to deploy, found in many foldable poles.

6. Pole Tips and Baskets

• Carbide or Tungsten Tips – Durable and provide excellent grip on rocky or icy terrain.
• Rubber Tips – Ideal for paved or sensitive terrains where carbide tips might cause damage.
• Snow and Mud Baskets – Attachments that prevent poles from sinking into soft ground.

Top Hiking Poles for Long Treks

While there are many options on the market, some stand out due to their quality, durability, and overall performance. Here are some of the best hiking poles for long-distance trekking:

1. Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork

• Material: Carbon fiber
• Grip: Cork
• Adjustability: Telescoping, FlickLock Pro system
• Best For: Serious trekkers who want a lightweight yet durable option.

These poles offer excellent durability, lightweight construction, and high-quality cork grips for comfort. They are a great choice for long treks that involve varied terrain.

2. LEKI Micro Vario Carbon AS

• Material: Carbon fiber
• Grip: AERGON Thermo foam
• Adjustability: Folding, SpeedLock 2 system
• Best For: Ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers.

LEKI’s Micro Vario Carbon AS poles are compact, lightweight, and have an anti-shock system for added comfort on extended hikes.

3. MSR DynaLock Explore Backcountry Poles

• Material: Aluminum
• Grip: EVA Foam
• Adjustability: Telescoping, DynaLock system
• Best For: Durability in rugged conditions.

MSR’s poles are perfect for harsh conditions, offering excellent durability and a secure locking system that withstands heavy use.

4. Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles

• Material: Carbon fiber
• Grip: Cork
• Adjustability: Telescoping, lever locks
• Best For: Budget-conscious hikers who still want high performance.

Foxelli’s poles provide excellent performance at an affordable price, making them ideal for long treks without breaking the bank.

How to Use Hiking Poles Effectively

Having the right trekking poles is only part of the equation. Knowing how to use them properly will enhance their benefits:

• Adjust the height so that your elbows form a 90-degree angle when holding the grips.
• Use the wrist straps correctly by inserting your hand from below and gripping over the strap for better support.
• Plant the poles in sync with your stride, alternating them with each step for natural rhythm and balance.
• Shorten the poles on uphill climbs to maintain posture and reduce strain.
• Lengthen the poles on downhill sections to provide extra stability and reduce impact on your knees.

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality pair of hiking poles for long treks can make all the difference in endurance, stability, and overall hiking experience. With the right material, adjustability, grip, and locking system, trekking poles become an indispensable tool for any hiker tackling long distances. Whether you prefer lightweight carbon fiber poles for ultralight backpacking or durable aluminum poles for rugged terrain, selecting the right pair will enhance your journey and help you conquer the trails with confidence.

Happy trekking!

Do hiking poles really help?

Yes, hiking poles provide several benefits, especially on uneven or steep terrain. They help reduce strain on your knees and joints, improve balance, and distribute weight more evenly, making long hikes less tiring. Poles also assist with stability when crossing streams, navigating rocky paths, or descending steep slopes. Additionally, they can help maintain a consistent rhythm, which enhances endurance. However, their effectiveness depends on the hiker’s technique and the type of terrain being tackled.

What is the difference between a hiking pole and a trekking pole?

The terms “hiking pole” and “trekking pole” are often used interchangeably, but trekking poles typically come in pairs and are designed for long-distance or challenging terrain, offering adjustable lengths and shock absorption. Hiking poles, on the other hand, can refer to a single staff or simpler versions of trekking poles used for general hiking. Trekking poles usually have more advanced features such as ergonomic grips, wrist straps, and interchangeable tips for different terrains.

What are the disadvantages of walking poles?

While walking poles offer many advantages, they also have some downsides. They can be cumbersome to carry when not in use, and improper use may lead to over-reliance, reducing the body’s natural balance and strength. They also occupy your hands, making it more challenging to handle maps, snacks, or other gear. Additionally, poles can cause environmental damage if used improperly, as repeated contact with the ground can erode trails and disturb fragile vegetation.

Do you need 2 poles for hiking?

Using two poles is recommended for balance and reducing strain on joints, especially during long hikes or when carrying a heavy pack. Two poles help distribute weight evenly, improve stability, and make uphill and downhill sections easier. However, some hikers prefer using a single pole for light hikes, as it provides support while keeping one hand free. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference, terrain, and the level of support needed.