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10 Best Hiking Sticks 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles - Lightweight, Collapsible Hiking Poles for Backpacking Gear - Pair of 2 Walking Sticks for Hiking, 7075 Aluminum with Cork Grip

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,473
Adjustability
Weight
Shock Absorption

Most important from
61882 reviews

Adjustability
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles have sturdy and reliable locking mechanisms that have never failed or slipped.
Weight
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles have sturdy and reliable locking mechanisms that have never failed or slipped.
Shock Absorption
The poles are intuitive and natural for the body to mesh with, reducing knee and hip pain significantly during hikes.
Tip
Highly versatile with adjustable heights, they come with different spikes for various terrains and a convenient storage bag.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are designed for durability and ease of use, making them suitable for various outdoor activities like hiking and snowshoeing. Made from 7075 aluminum, these poles are strong yet lightweight, weighing less than many other trekking poles. This material choice ensures they can withstand tough conditions while remaining easy to carry on long hikes. The adjustability feature is a significant advantage, allowing the poles to be set to heights between 24.5 inches and 54 inches, making them versatile for both adults and kids.

The lever locks are user-friendly, enabling one-handed operation, which is more convenient than the typical twist locks found on other models. The cork grip handles are another highlight, offering comfort and moisture-wicking properties that enhance the user experience by molding to the shape of your hands. However, these poles do not specifically mention shock absorption, which could be a drawback for users needing extra cushioning on rough terrain.

The threaded pole tips are a practical feature, ensuring that accessories stay attached even in challenging conditions like snow or mud. On the downside, while the poles are lightweight, they might still be slightly heavier than some high-end carbon fiber alternatives. The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a well-rounded choice for hikers looking for durable, adjustable, and comfortable trekking poles, though they may not be the best option for those prioritizing ultra-lightweight gear or needing advanced shock absorption.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,473
Adjustability
Weight
Shock Absorption

Most important from
61882 reviews

Adjustability
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles have sturdy and reliable locking mechanisms that have never failed or slipped.
Weight
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles have sturdy and reliable locking mechanisms that have never failed or slipped.
Shock Absorption
The poles are intuitive and natural for the body to mesh with, reducing knee and hip pain significantly during hikes.
Tip
Highly versatile with adjustable heights, they come with different spikes for various terrains and a convenient storage bag.
#2

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles - Lightweight, Collapsible Hiking Poles for Snowshoe & Backpacking Gear - Pair of 2 Walking Sticks for Hiking, 7075 Aluminum with Cork Grip

Rating
9.8
Adjustability
Grip
Tip

Most important from
61882 reviews

Adjustability
Lightweight and easy to adjust, the lever lock system is reliable and sturdy, even under significant weight.
Grip
The ergonomic cork grips and adjustable wrist straps provide comfort and reduce chafing, which can be further minimized by wearing gloves.
Tip
The poles are versatile with different tips for various terrains, making them suitable for hiking on packed gravel, dirt, asphalt, and more.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are designed to be a reliable companion for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Their standout feature is the use of durable 7075 aluminum, which is known for being lightweight yet incredibly strong, making these poles suitable for various terrains, including rugged trails and snowy landscapes. Weighing in at just 4 ounces per pole, they are easy to carry, reducing fatigue during long hikes. The adjustable height range from 24.5 inches to 54 inches allows users of different heights, including kids, to use them comfortably.

One of the strengths of these poles is the user-friendly lever lock system, which can be operated with one hand, a notable improvement over the traditional twist locks that often require two hands to adjust. The cork grips provide a comfortable, moisture-wicking surface, ensuring a secure hold even in wet conditions. Additionally, the threaded tips allow for easy attachment of accessories, which is a great feature for those who hike in diverse environments.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for casual hikers and families looking for an affordable yet functional option. They excel in adjustability and comfort, making them great for both novice and experienced hikers. However, those who prioritize maximum shock absorption might want to explore other alternatives.

Rating
9.8
Adjustability
Grip
Tip

Most important from
61882 reviews

Adjustability
Lightweight and easy to adjust, the lever lock system is reliable and sturdy, even under significant weight.
Grip
The ergonomic cork grips and adjustable wrist straps provide comfort and reduce chafing, which can be further minimized by wearing gloves.
Tip
The poles are versatile with different tips for various terrains, making them suitable for hiking on packed gravel, dirt, asphalt, and more.
#3

TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking & Trekking Poles - Balance Support for Seniors, Women, and Men, 2pc Per Set

Rating
9.6
Adjustability
Tip

Most important from
11340 reviews

Adjustability
These trekking poles are easy to unfold, adjust, and don't slip or collapse when you put a lot of weight on them.
Tip
Excellent quality with well-manufactured parts, including a handy carrying case and various bottom pieces for different terrains.

The TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking & Trekking Poles are a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts, offering several strengths. The poles are made from aircraft-grade aluminum, making them both strong and lightweight. This is beneficial for long hikes or backpacking trips where carrying heavy gear can be a burden. The adjustable feature via the innovative flip-lock system allows customization for different heights (100-120cm for users 4'11" to 5'10" and 115-135cm for users 5'5" to 6'5"), making them versatile for a wide range of users, including seniors, women, and teenagers.

The cork-texture grip is designed to wick away sweat, providing a comfortable hold even in muddy conditions, while the EVA foam shafts offer additional grip in extreme terrains. These features enhance both comfort and stability during use. The poles also boast a compact design, folding down to just 15 inches, which makes them easy to pack and travel with.

However, one potential drawback is that the poles might lack advanced shock absorption features, which could be a consideration for those planning to hike on very rough or rocky terrains. Additionally, while the material is durable, some users might prefer the lighter feel of carbon fiber poles despite their higher cost. In conclusion, the TREKOLOGY Trek-Z poles are a versatile and well-constructed option suitable for a variety of outdoor activities and users, particularly those who prioritize lightweight and adjustable gear.

Rating
9.6
Adjustability
Tip

Most important from
11340 reviews

Adjustability
These trekking poles are easy to unfold, adjust, and don't slip or collapse when you put a lot of weight on them.
Tip
Excellent quality with well-manufactured parts, including a handy carrying case and various bottom pieces for different terrains.

Buying Guide for the Best Hiking Sticks

Choosing the right hiking sticks can significantly enhance your hiking experience by providing stability, reducing strain on your joints, and improving your balance on uneven terrain. When selecting hiking sticks, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure they meet your needs and preferences. Here are some key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.
MaterialThe material of hiking sticks affects their weight, durability, and cost. Common materials include aluminum and carbon fiber. Aluminum sticks are generally more affordable and durable, making them a good choice for rugged terrain. Carbon fiber sticks are lighter and absorb shock better, which can be beneficial for long hikes or if you have joint issues. Choose aluminum if you prioritize durability and cost, and carbon fiber if you prioritize weight and shock absorption.
AdjustabilityAdjustable hiking sticks allow you to change their length to suit different terrains and your height. This feature is important for comfort and efficiency. Adjustable sticks can be divided into telescoping and folding types. Telescoping sticks have sections that slide into each other, while folding sticks collapse into shorter segments. Telescoping sticks are generally more robust and easier to adjust on the go, while folding sticks are more compact and easier to pack. Choose adjustable sticks if you hike on varied terrain or share the sticks with others.
GripThe grip of hiking sticks affects comfort and control. Common grip materials include cork, foam, and rubber. Cork grips are comfortable, absorb sweat, and conform to your hand over time. Foam grips are soft and absorb moisture, making them good for hot weather. Rubber grips are durable and provide a firm hold, but can become slippery when wet. Choose cork grips for long hikes and comfort, foam grips for hot weather, and rubber grips for durability and wet conditions.
WeightThe weight of hiking sticks can impact your energy levels and comfort during a hike. Lighter sticks are easier to carry and can reduce fatigue, especially on long hikes. However, lighter materials like carbon fiber can be more expensive. Heavier sticks, often made of aluminum, are more durable and can provide better stability. Choose lighter sticks if you prioritize ease of carrying and reduced fatigue, and heavier sticks if you prioritize durability and stability.
Shock AbsorptionSome hiking sticks come with built-in shock absorbers to reduce impact on your joints. This feature is particularly important if you have knee or joint issues or if you plan to hike on hard surfaces. Shock absorption can be turned on or off in some models, providing flexibility. Choose hiking sticks with shock absorption if you need extra joint protection or plan to hike on hard or rocky terrain.
TipThe tip of hiking sticks affects their grip on different surfaces. Common tip materials include carbide and rubber. Carbide tips are durable and provide good traction on rocky or icy surfaces. Rubber tips are quieter and better for use on paved surfaces. Some hiking sticks come with interchangeable tips for different terrains. Choose carbide tips for rugged, rocky, or icy terrain, and rubber tips for paved or smooth surfaces.

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