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10 Best Lightweight Trekking Pole 2025 in the United States

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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
9.8
Chosen by1,291
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
61968 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles are perfect for various heights and can be used by the entire family.
Adjustability
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles are perfect for various heights and can be used by the entire family.
Grip Material
The cork grips are comfortable and the padded straps help reduce strain, although gloves can be useful to prevent chafing during longer hikes.
Locking Mechanism
The lever locks are impressively sturdy and reliable, providing confidence that they won't slip, even under significant weight.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a great choice for those seeking lightweight and durable hiking poles. Made from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, each pole weighs just 9.7 ounces, making them both light and strong. They are highly adjustable, with a range of 24.5 inches to 54 inches, accommodating various heights and even suitable for children.

The lever locks are user-friendly, allowing easy adjustments with one hand, which is more convenient compared to traditional twist locks. The cork grips provide a secure hold and comfort by molding to the user's hand while wicking away moisture, making them ideal for long treks. Padded straps add to the comfort by reducing strain on the hands and wrists. The threaded tips ensure that accessories stay attached, even in challenging conditions like snow or mud.

One potential drawback is the lack of explicit shock absorption features, which could be important for those hiking on extremely rough or downhill terrains. While the cork material is comfortable, some may prefer foam grips for additional comfort if they have sensitive hands. Despite these minor cons, the TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid option, especially given their durability and ease of use, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced hikers.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,291
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
61968 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles are perfect for various heights and can be used by the entire family.
Adjustability
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles are perfect for various heights and can be used by the entire family.
Grip Material
The cork grips are comfortable and the padded straps help reduce strain, although gloves can be useful to prevent chafing during longer hikes.
Locking Mechanism
The lever locks are impressively sturdy and reliable, providing confidence that they won't slip, even under significant weight.
#2

Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Trekking Poles with Extended Down Grip Plus Tip Kit, 2 Count (Pack of 1)

Rating
9.6
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
24577 reviews

Weight
The poles are impressively lightweight, making them easy to carry over long distances without causing fatigue.
Adjustability
The quick lock mechanism is very easy to adjust, and the clamps hold tightly.
Grip Material
The natural-feeling cork grip is comfortable and reduces vibrations, providing added stability.

The Cascade Mountain Tech Lightweight Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Trekking Poles are a solid choice for anyone looking for durable and comfortable poles for their hiking adventures. Weighing in at just 10 ounces each, these poles are crafted from aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum, ensuring they can withstand tough conditions without adding much weight to your gear. The quick lock mechanism is a standout feature, allowing you to easily adjust the poles from 26” to 54” without having to stop and fiddle with them, which is ideal for varied terrains and inclines.

The grip is another area where these poles shine; the natural-feeling cork grip is comfortable and reduces vibrations, while the extended EVA down grip offers more flexibility for hand placement on steep climbs. The poles also come with a comprehensive tip kit, including tungsten carbide tips and various rubber accessories, ensuring you are prepared for all types of terrain and weather conditions.

However, the aluminum construction, while durable, may not be as lightweight as carbon fiber options, which could be a consideration for those prioritizing ultralight gear. Additionally, while the quick lock mechanism is convenient, some users might prefer a twist lock system for added security. These trekking poles offer a great balance of durability, comfort, and adjustability, making them suitable for day hikes, overnight trips, and even long-distance thru-hiking. They are especially well-suited for hikers who appreciate robust construction and versatile grip options.

Rating
9.6
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
24577 reviews

Weight
The poles are impressively lightweight, making them easy to carry over long distances without causing fatigue.
Adjustability
The quick lock mechanism is very easy to adjust, and the clamps hold tightly.
Grip Material
The natural-feeling cork grip is comfortable and reduces vibrations, providing added stability.
#3

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

Rating
9.4
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
11394 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and easy to use, providing a sense of security on slopes and wet trails.
Adjustability
Easy to unfold, adjust, and don't slip or collapse under weight.
Grip Material
The grips are EVA foam made to look like cork, not real cork.

The TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking & Trekking Poles provide a lightweight and compact option for those who enjoy hiking or need extra walking support. Weighing just 294g (10.4oz) for the shorter size and 306g (10.8oz) for the longer size, these poles are easy to carry and ideal for long treks. Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, they are both strong and lightweight, making them durable for various terrains and able to support heavier weights.

The poles can be adjusted within a 20cm range using a flip-lock system, making them suitable for users of different heights. The available sizes can accommodate people from 4'11" to 6'5". The tri-fold design allows the poles to collapse down to 15 inches (38 cm), making them very portable and easy to fit into a backpack or luggage.

The cork-texture grip is beneficial for wicking away sweat and providing a firm hold, while the EVA foam shafts offer a strong grip in challenging environments. The locking mechanism is innovative but may require some practice to use effectively. These poles are an excellent option for hikers, backpackers, or seniors looking for a sturdy, lightweight walking aid.

Rating
9.4
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
11394 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and easy to use, providing a sense of security on slopes and wet trails.
Adjustability
Easy to unfold, adjust, and don't slip or collapse under weight.
Grip Material
The grips are EVA foam made to look like cork, not real cork.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Trekking Pole

Choosing the right lightweight trekking pole can significantly enhance your hiking experience by providing stability, reducing strain on your joints, and improving your balance on uneven terrain. When selecting a trekking pole, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main factors to consider and how to navigate them.
WeightThe weight of a trekking pole is crucial because it affects how easy it is to carry and use over long distances. Lightweight poles, typically under 1 pound per pair, are ideal for long hikes and backpacking trips as they reduce fatigue. Medium-weight poles, around 1-1.5 pounds per pair, offer a balance between durability and ease of use. Heavier poles, over 1.5 pounds per pair, are generally more durable and suitable for rugged terrain but can be tiring to use over extended periods. Choose a weight that matches the length and difficulty of your hikes.
MaterialTrekking poles are commonly made from aluminum or carbon fiber. Aluminum poles are durable and less expensive, making them a good choice for rugged terrain and budget-conscious hikers. They are, however, slightly heavier. Carbon fiber poles are lighter and absorb shock better, which can reduce strain on your joints, but they are more expensive and can be more prone to damage from impacts. Consider the type of terrain you will be hiking on and your preference for weight versus durability when choosing the material.
AdjustabilityAdjustable trekking poles allow you to change the length to suit different terrains and personal preferences. This feature is particularly useful for uphill and downhill sections, where different lengths can provide better support. Poles with a range of 24-55 inches are common. Non-adjustable poles are lighter and simpler but lack versatility. If you hike on varied terrain, adjustable poles are a better choice. For consistent, flat terrain, non-adjustable poles may suffice.
Grip MaterialThe grip material affects comfort and usability. Common materials include cork, foam, and rubber. Cork grips conform to your hand over time, absorb sweat, and reduce vibration, making them comfortable for long hikes. Foam grips are soft and absorb moisture, providing a comfortable grip in wet conditions. Rubber grips are durable and provide a firm grip, but can become slippery when wet and may cause blisters over long distances. Choose a grip material based on the climate and duration of your hikes.
Locking MechanismThe locking mechanism secures the pole at your desired length. There are several types, including lever locks, twist locks, and push-button locks. Lever locks are easy to adjust and reliable, even with gloves on. Twist locks are lighter and more streamlined but can be harder to adjust and may slip over time. Push-button locks are simple and quick to use but offer less adjustability. Consider how often you will need to adjust your poles and in what conditions when choosing a locking mechanism.
Shock AbsorptionSome trekking poles come with built-in shock absorbers to reduce impact on your joints, which can be beneficial on long hikes or rough terrain. Poles with shock absorption are slightly heavier and more expensive but provide extra comfort. Non-shock absorbing poles are lighter and simpler but may transmit more impact to your wrists and arms. If you have joint issues or plan to hike on very rocky or hard surfaces, shock-absorbing poles might be worth the extra weight and cost.

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