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 Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles are a high-quality option for hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering enthusiasts. Made from 100% carbon fiber, these poles are ultra-lightweight, making them easy to carry over long distances. The ergonomic grip top, fashioned from natural cork with an EVA foam grip extension, provides comfort and reduces hand fatigue during extended use. The FlickLock Pro mechanism, constructed from forged aluminum, allows for quick and secure length adjustments, enhancing the poles' usability on varied terrains.

Additionally, the solution strap offers premium performance, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit around your wrists. The poles also come with interchangeable tech tips, including carbide tips, making them versatile for different types of surfaces and conditions. While the poles are lightweight, their cost might be higher compared to other trekking poles on the market. With a folded size of 61 centimeters, they might be slightly bulky for packing in smaller backpacks. However, their robust construction and premium features, such as the shock-absorbing cork handles and reliable locking mechanism, make them a durable and dependable choice for serious hikers and mountaineers. The included 2-year warranty from Black Diamond further adds to the product's reliability.

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.