While hiking or trekking, you may find it difficult to balance yourself during long walks on slippery or rough terrain. Not to mention if you’re carrying a heavy backpack on your back. You need something to give you support and balance. And that’s where trekking poles can help you. They provide stability on different kinds of terrain, especially on longer hikes or treks. But the best trekking poles for backpacking give so much more. They help reduce the pressure on your muscles and joints. On top of everything, they should help you reduce fatigue while preventing injuries.
How to Choose Best Trekking Poles for Backpacking
In the market, there are many trekking poles offered from a wide range of designs and prices. When choosing a pair of poles for your next trip, you need to consider some factors. These are important to get the best ones for you. Depending on your needs, we’ll help you to sort out those factors through the information below:
Carbon fiber vs. Aluminum
For any kind of adventure, you need high-quality material trekking poles. Depending on how you’ll use it, choose the kind of material you need. The two common materials are aluminum and carbon fiber.
Fiber carbon poles are lighter compared to those made of aluminum. They’re more suitable for regular hikes and treks. As they are lightweight, it’s easier for you to carry them. They also reduce the vibration in your hands. However, carbon fiber poles are more expensive and less durable. They tend to bend and break easily, especially on rocky terrains. Aluminum is generally stronger and more flexible, but slightly heavier. It’s durable for longer hikes. And they are usually more affordable.
Handle Types
What’s important about this feature is producing comfort and avoiding injuries, such as blisters. So, choosing the best material for grip handles is essential. Trekking poles have three main types of grips: cork, EVA foam, and rubber. Most trekking pole grips are made of either cork or EVA foam. Cork is the most comfortable and durable grips you can get. It molds to the shape of your hands perfectly, which is great for longer treks.
Less durable than cork is EVA foam. However, it absorbs moisture from your hands and dries quickly. EVA foam is lightweight and more affordable, but it tends to break easily. The least popular grip is rubber. It’s the heaviest and doesn’t absorb moisture well. But, rubber grips shed snow and rain. Thus, they are great for winter sports, including skiing and snowshoeing.
Pole Tips and Baskets
Tips are the part of your poles that make contact with the ground. Trekking poles offer a wide range of tips and baskets for different kinds of conditions and terrains, from a leisurely walk to trekking on snow. Most trekking poles feature metal carbide or steel tips. But you can easily change the tips for extra stability. In general, there are some tips and baskets you can use, including rubber tip, mud/snow basket, and carbide tip.
Rubber tips are mostly used on the sidewalk, paved paths, and large smooth rocks. The mud/snow baskets are suitable for muddy or snowy trails. They help you to prevent the pole from sinking too deep into soft ground. You can use the carbide tips for hard-packed paths or gravel trails. Please note that when you use rubber tips, they tend to wear out with time and you need to replace them regularly.
Locking System
Bringing trekking poles during your backpacking trips doesn’t mean you’ll be using them all the time. Sometimes you need to pack it into your hiking backpack. And there’s a time you need to adjust the length of your poles to fit the terrain you’re walking on. So, you’ll need to be able to extend or fold/collapse your poles on trails easy and fast. The manufacturers often provide a locking system in three ways: a flip lock, a twist lock, and an unfold-and-slide lock.
In flip-lock trekking poles, there’s a small clip to fold the poles. It usually lasts longer than the twist lock, and it’s easier to use and while preventing slips. With a twist-lock system, you’re required to twist the individual pole sections in the opposite direction until they’re firmly locked. This lock is cheap and easy to use, but it tends to loosen and collapse when you least expect it. The unfold-and-slide lock pole uses an internal cord to hold trekking pole’s sections. You need to push the button lock to secure it. This lock is less flexible and more fragile, but it won’t collapse unexpectedly.
In this article, we list our top 13 picks of best trekking poles for backpacking. These are unisex, suitable for both men and women. However, some manufacturers offer specific products for the ladies and for kids. So, do check out our list of 13 Best Trekking Poles for Women and 13 Best Trekking Poles for Kids, too!
Paria Tri-Fold Trekking Poles
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Paria Tri-Fold is affordable trekking poles made of high-quality carbon fibers with aluminum connectors. This product features a unique folding design, which allows you to pack the poles down to less than 15 inches (38cm). And you can easily shorten or lengthen the poles with its single flick lock in seconds, from 100 cm to 120 cm or 115 to 135 cm. This pole is perfect for backpackers and travelers.
It features ergonomic cork handles, which absorbs moisture. You’ll stay comfortable all day, and it also reduces arm fatigue. Secure your grips to the poles with wrist straps, so they won’t fall off your hands. The changeable tips fit on any terrain, from rocky to snowy surfaces. Every purchase comes with a carry bag, rubber tips, and trekking baskets.
What We Love
Affordable trekking poles with a lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- Carbon fibers shaft with aluminum alloy connector
- Foldable into a compact size (15 inches/38 cm)
- Ergonomic cork grips
- Changeable tungsten carbide tips
Cons:
- People considered the flick lock adjustment is too loose
- Doesn’t’ have shock absorbers
Weanas Trekking Poles
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Looking for the best trekking poles for backpacking with good material and small enough to carry? Weanas Trekking Poles are the right ones. This folding trekking pole is made of a combination of aluminum, metals, zinc, and magnesium. It’s lightweight and doesn’t deform easily. Plus, the tungsten steel rod tip is abrasion-resistant.
Adjust the shaft length with a Quick Flip Lock system to fit your height. You can fold the poles into 13.4 inches (34 cm). Pack into your hiking backpack, and you’re ready to go! The adjustable straps secure the poles on your hands. Get comfortable with the soft absorbent EVA foam handle along your way. It absorbs moisture on your sweaty hand, even on the hottest day. This product comes with a standard and snow/mud basket. So you can bring your poles for backpacking, mountaineering, and hiking in any season on any kind of terrains. Don’t worry about the after-sales issues. You’ll get a 30-day money-back guarantee for any reason. Plus a one-year warranty for quality-related issues.
What We Love
Made of a combination of aluminum, metals, zinc, and magnesium.
Pros:
- Lightweight and foldable
- Abrasion-resistant rod tip
- Adjustable trekking poles with Flick Lock system
- Absorbent EVA foam handle
Cons:
- It doesn’t have an anti-shock system
- Some people found the lock system unstable
High Stream Foldable Trekking Poles
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If you’re looking not only lighter and stronger, but also stylish trekking poles, High Stream Foldable is the one. They give you balance and stability on all terrains, from smooth to rocky surfaces. Made of 7075 aluminum, these foldable poles are durable and won’t crack, bend, or break easily. They are adjustable from 100-120 cm. Perfect for hiking and backpacking on challenging trails! Fold the poles down to 14.5 inches (37 cm) and carry it in your backpack.
The comfortable EVA foam grips and foam extension give the poles a classy look. They also protect your hands with hands straps. This product comes with two unique belt-mounted carries. These allow you to quickly holster your trekking poles and easily bring them back into use. Enjoy the 100% money guarantee with every purchase!
What We Love
After-sales customer service and one year warranty.
Pros:
- Stylish design and classy look
- Ergonomic EVA foam handles
- Unique holster belt
- Durable
- Made of 7075 aluminum
Cons:
- The tips may be easily loosen
- The plastic internal shock cords are not durable
Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
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Are you looking for a versatile pole with carbon fiber construction at a reasonable price? Foxelli Carbon Fiber is the right choice. It’s versatile for a variety of terrains, from paved roads, rocky surfaces, to snowy glaciers. Just change the tips from the included accessories: thermoplastic rubber tips, tungsten carbide tips, and trekking basket.
This three-section telescoping pole features Quick-Lock technology. You can extend the pole with its plastic lever lock for up to 54 inches (137 cm) long. When not in use, it’s packable into 24 inches (61 cm). Thanks to its ergonomic cork handle, feel the grips fit in your hands. Plus, it absorbs sweat and won’t slip easily. The thick foam extensions below the grips help you in rough terrain. To prevent you from accidentally dropping the poles, use the adjustable padded wrist straps.
What We Love
Versatile pole with carbon fiber construction at affordable prices.
Pros:
- Comfortable ergonomic cork grips
- Lightweight
- Adjustable padded wrist straps
- Versatile on all kinds of terrains
Cons:
Some said the locks loosen too easily.
TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles
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TheFitLife Nordic is one of the best trekking poles for backpacking. It has an anti-shock system, which reduces the impact of the jolts. This product is made of high-quality aluminum, so it’s lightweight and durable. The telescopic poles are great for backpacking, trekking, and hiking all year long, thanks to its all-season accessories. These include rubber tips, snow baskets, and walking tips. Change the one that fits the condition and terrain anytime!
This product features comfortable EVA foam grips. They absorb sweat well, so your hands stay dry even on a hot day. Secure the poles with adjustable wrist straps, and you won’t experience any slips while holding them. Adjust the shaft quickly and easily with the QuickLock system. It’s expandable to 53 inches (135 cm). And you can collapse it into 26 inches (65 cm) when not in use. Get a free carrying bag for every purchase! These poles are available in some colors, including blue, silver, purple, black, and red.
What We Love
Versatile trekking poles with the anti-shock system.
Pros:
- High-quality aluminum
- Comfortable EVA foam handles
- Carrying bag
- All season accessories
Cons:
The lock system may be unstable.
Bafx Adjustable Anti Shock Trekking Poles
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Bafx Adjustable Anti Shock is made of aluminum material. It’s strong, lightweight, and collapsible into 26.5 inches (67.3 cm). This makes them perfect for backpacking and hiking. Every purchase comes with mud baskets, carbide tips, and two rubber tips. These accessories are changeable to assist you in different kinds of terrain. Plus, it has a one year warranty for all defects. Choose this affordable lightweight pole in one of three available colors: blue, white, and black.
These affordable poles feature a twist-lock system, so you can adjust the telescopic shaft to fit your height. For your comfort, the pole has ergonomic rubber grips with padded wrist straps. The anti-shock inside of each pole gives extra comfort from the repetitive jolt when the poles hit the ground. Get the stress off your hands and joints!
What We Love
Comfortable ergonomic handles.
Pros:
- Anti-shock feature
- One year warranty
- Lightweight
- Affordable price
- Ergonomic rubber grips
- Padded wrist straps
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy duties
- Rubber grips are not as good as a cork or EVA foam
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
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The next one in our list of the best trekking poles for backpacking is Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z. It’s made of super lightweight 100% carbon fiber material, which absorbs more shock. And this pole is perfect for light backpacking. It comes with a three-section foldable design, so you can easily fold and unfold it anytime. The length is not adjustable, but you can choose from four available sizes: 100cm, 110cm, 120cm, and 130cm to fit your height.
This product features EVA foam grips, which absorbs moisture. The ribbed construction allows some airflow, so your hands will stay dry. There are also Velcro straps to hold the poles safely. With a secure locking system, you can extend and fold the shaft easy and fast. Every purchase comes with rubber and carbide tips, making them versatile for quick hiking, summer, and glacier backpacking trips.
What We Love
The super lightweight trekking poles.
Pros:
- 100% made of carbon fiber
- EVA foam grips
- Foldable and available in four length
- Velcro straps
Cons:
- It only has one tip and basket type
- The straps are not padded
Montem Ultra Strong
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Looking for a versatile pole? Montem Ultra Strong is a great choice. It’s made of lightweight 7075 aluminum at affordable prices. This product features a three-section telescoping design, so you can adjust your poles to different lengths. They are expandable from 24-53 inches (61-135 cm). For every purchase, you’ll get rubber tips and mud baskets, which are great for different terrains.
The EVA foam grips are very comfortable. Plus, there’s an extra texture on this section that will help you climb steep terrain. For extra comfort, the poles are equipped with adjustable padded wrist straps. Choose your color from several options, including black, pink, red, and green. Pick the one matching your hiking shoes!
What We Love
Versatile poles at affordable prices.
Pros:
- Comfortable EVA foam grips
- Made of 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum
- Rubber tips with baskets
- Colorful options
Cons:
The plastic locking adjustment is not durable.
Covacure Trekking Poles
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Covacure is in our list of the best trekking poles for backpacking for its unique and easy-to-use folding system. Built for comfort, they are adjustable and can be extended up to 51 inches (129 cm). Unlike any other trekking poles, it can be folded down into 14 inches (36 cm). Something you’ll love when you go out backpacking. You can easily and conveniently store the pole into your backpack. This product is made of 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes it lightweight and corrosion resistance.
This pole supports heavier weight. And it’s a versatile pole with wear and slip-resistant tips and baskets. They are replaceable, so you can perform all year long. And these poles are great for backpacking in rough terrains. With ergonomic EVA foam handles, feel the comfort on every step. Plus, it absorbs sweat and is slip-resistance. And with the help from the straps, you won’t be dropping them off!
What We Love
Easy to use innovative folding trekking poles.
Pros:
- Corrosion resistance material
- Lightweight 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum
- EVA foam handles with straps
- All seasons accessories
- Slip-resistant grips
Cons:
- It doesn’t come with extra tips
- There’s no shock absorber feature
ProdCascade Mountain Tech
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Among all the best trekking poles for backpacking, Cascade Mountain Tech is the best choice for good performance. It’s made of 100% carbon fiber, and it offers a variety of tips and baskets. The cork grips absorb sweat and lower the vibration on each step. Plus, there’s a non-slip foam handle extension. So you can grip it easily and it won’t slide around so much. This product comes with tungsten carbide tips and additional tips, including mud basket, snow basket, and rubber tip. Also, you’ll get a travel bag on every purchase.
This product features quick-lock levers, so you can easily adjust the pole length. It’s extendable to 54 inches (137 cm) when in use, so you can fit your height. And it collapsible to 26 inches (66 cm) when not in use. The quick locks feature a nice thumbscrew. This allows you to hand-tighten the screws without screwdrivers. It’s available in blue, green, gray, and white.
What We Love
Lightweight poles with adjustable quick-lock levers.
Pros:
- Made of 100% carbon fiber
- Comfortable cork grips
- Tungsten carbide tips
- Adjustable wrist straps
Cons:
- The synthetic cork grips may peel off easily
- It doesn’t have the anti-shock system
TREKOLOGY Trek-Z
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Trekology Trek-Z is considered the best trekking poles for backpacking made of 100% aerospace-grade aluminum. This type of material is strong and lightweight. So these poles can support the extra weight and prevent knee injury. Perfect for long backpacking trips on various terrains! For extra security, each pole comes with added metal caps. And the tri-fold design makes it foldable to 15 inches (38 cm).
Keep your hands dry with the cork-texture grips which absorb sweat in hot weather! And the extension EVA foam allows strong grip, even in extreme terrain. Hold the poles firmly with the adjustable soft wrist straps. To fit your height, adjust the poles using the metal flip-lock. This product is available in two sizes: 100-125cm and 115-135cm. You’ll get a carry bag on every purchase!
What We Love
The retractable tri-fold design is a great addition.
Pros:
- Absorbent cork grips
- EVA foam shaft
- Metal flip lock
- 100% aerospace-grade aluminum
- Extra carry bag for better storage
Cons:
- The grips are not 100% cork
- Some had a problem with the cable inside while assembling the poles
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
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When backpacking on rough terrain, you may need to put pressure on poles for support and balance. TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are great for this condition. It’s made of lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum. With the twist lock, you can disassemble and collapse them into 21 inches (53 cm) easily. Store them into the carry bag and easily fit them into your backpack.
With cork handles, the poles are more comfortable to hold. Plus, they absorb moisture and keep your hands dry, particularly in hot weather. For more balance and grip when walking, secure your poles with padded wrist straps. The padding also helps protect your skin blisters. This product comes with accessories for different surfaces, such as rocky, sandy, ice, and muddy surfaces. Choose your favorite colors from five available options: Lake Blue, Bumblebee Yellow, Moss Green, Raven Black, and Beetle Red.
What We Love
It’s made of lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum material.
Pros:
- Telescopic design with twist lock
- Cork handles
- Padded wrist straps
- Interesting color options
- Multiple accessories
Cons:
- There’s no shock absorber feature
- The twist lock is relatively difficult to use for some people
Foxelli Aluminum Trekking Poles
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On the top of our list of the best trekking poles for backpacking is Foxelli Aluminum Trekking Poles. They are specially designed for maximum safety and comfort. This product features fast locks for safety on any different surfaces. It’s expandable up to 55 inches (140 cm), so you can adjust the poles easily to fit your height. The poles are packable into 14.6 inches (37 cm). The anti-slip cork grips comfortably fit into your hand. Plus, they absorb moisture that keeps your hands dry and cool. For extra comfort, adjustable padded wrist straps and the extended EVA foam are added. These help you adjust to changes in terrain.
These ultralight poles maintain balance while minimizing the impact on your legs. Made of durable 7075 aluminum, they are great for backpacking in all seasons. Plus, this product comes with four-season accessories and tungsten carbide tips for better traction. It’s available in three colors: blue, black, and green.
What We Love
It’s made of durable 7075 aluminum on top of all of its top-notch features.
Pros:
- Adjustable shaft with fast locks
- Anti-slip cork handles
- Extended EVA foam
- Adjustable padded straps
- Tungsten carbide tips
- Four-season accessories
Cons:
- No shock absorber.
