10 Best Hiking Poles 2025 in the United States

The TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking & Trekking Poles are a solid choice for hikers of all levels, including seniors, women, and men due to their ergonomic design and adjustability. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, these poles are both lightweight and strong, weighing only 294g (10.4oz) for the shorter version and 306g (10.8oz) for the longer version. This makes them ideal for long hikes and backpacking trips as they won't add significant weight to your gear.

The collapsible design, folding down to just 15 inches (38 cm), ensures they are portable and easy to pack in your backpack or luggage. The innovative flip-lock system with a metal stopper allows for easy adjustment, accommodating different heights and ensuring a secure fit. The cork-texture grip wicks away sweat, providing a dry and comfortable hold, while the added mud stops offer extra stability in muddy conditions.

The EVA foam shafts offer a strong grip in various terrains, enhancing stability and control. One minor drawback is the lack of specific mention of shock absorption features, which might be a consideration for those looking for extra cushioning on rough terrains. However, the enhanced joints with metal caps contribute to durability and pressure resistance, making these poles capable of withstanding tough conditions. These trekking poles are a great gift for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize light and compact gear without compromising on strength and reliability.

The TREKOLOGY Trekking Poles are designed with durability and functionality in mind, making them suitable for various outdoor activities. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, these poles are robust and capable of supporting heavier weights, ideal for hiking or backpacking in rough terrains. The cork handle effectively wicks away sweat, keeping your hands dry, while the EVA foam shafts ensure a strong grip in extreme environments.

These poles are lightweight, with each weighing only 11.5 ounces, making them easy to carry around all day without causing fatigue. The collapsible design, which folds down to a compact 15 inches, is convenient for travel and storage. The adjustable length feature, ranging from 110 cm to 130 cm, caters to users of different heights, and the flip lock mechanism ensures secure adjustments.

While these poles are durable, they may not offer the same level of shock absorption as some carbon fiber models. This could be a consideration for those who need extra cushioning for their joints. Despite this, the TREKOLOGY Trekking Poles are a well-rounded choice for hikers, backpackers, and anyone in need of reliable, lightweight, and easily adjustable hiking poles.

The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z poles are designed for hikers and trail runners who want ultra-lightweight and durable gear. Made from carbon fiber, these poles are very light (about 140 grams each), which helps reduce arm fatigue on long hikes or runs. They come in a fixed length of 125 cm, so they are not adjustable, which could be a drawback if you want a pole that adapts to varied terrain or different users. The grips are made from EVA foam, a soft material that’s comfortable and wicks away sweat, plus they have breathable straps made from recycled materials, adding some eco-friendly value.

These poles use a push-button lock mechanism combined with a Z-pole folding design, making them easy to pack and quick to deploy, ideal for those who prioritize convenience and fast setup. However, they don’t have built-in shock absorption, which means your arms might feel more impact on rougher trails compared to poles with that feature. Their fixed length and lack of shock absorption make them more suitable for experienced hikers or runners who prefer simplicity and lightness over full adjustability and cushioning.

The included 2-year warranty adds confidence in their quality. If you want lightweight, compact poles mainly for fast hiking or running on fairly even ground, these poles are a strong choice. But if you need adjustable length or shock absorption for rougher hikes, you might want to consider other models.