Backcountry Beacon

Don’t let the unassuming, dare we say boring nature of trekking poles fool you. These seemingly simple walking sticks boost energy, lessen fatigue and ease joint pain when you’re on the trail. Whether you head out for an afternoon jaunt or a month-long thru-hike, your knees and back will thank you for those trekking poles in your hands.

The average hiker makes a pole plant about 45 times each minute. In a study by German physician Dr. G. Neureuther, it was found that each pole plant relieves approximately 18 pounds of pressure from the lower extremities when traveling on an incline. Northumbria University in the UK recently showed that trekking poles significantly reduce muscle damage and reduce soreness in the days following a hike.

The sum relief of weight over the course of a hike—or a lifetime—is enormous. Further, the upper body remains upright because the forearms hang relaxed with the hands in the trekking pole straps, reducing strain on the lower back and spine. The upright position allows increased air intake, thereby extending stamina.

Grips

Generally, grips are made out of foam, rubber, or cork. Foam usually feels the most plush; rubber insulates well for cold-weather hiking; cork conforms to your hand over time. In the end, however, it comes down to how the pole feels in your hand, which is all personal preference. Before you buy a set of trekking poles, find an opportunity to test out a few different grip styles in your hands. Head to your local outdoor store and walk around the aisles with the poles.

Shaft Construction

Most manufacturers construct their poles out of high-grade aluminum, but some higher-end models contain titanium or carbon fiber. Titanium and carbon fiber reduce weight, but also jack up the price.

Pretty much all poles are collapsible. In general, three-piece poles will collapse down smaller than two-piece poles, which makes them good if you’ll be strapping them to your pack.

Locking Mechanisms

Most manufacturers have their own proprietary locking mechanisms. Read reviews and test them out for yourself.

Shock Absorbers

Higher end trekking poles feature internal shock absorbers that act like the suspension on a mountain bike. Look for models where you can turn the shock absorbers on/off.

Top Reviewed Poles

– Black Diamond Spire Trekking Pole

Fantastic Poles

By: Matt Lutz

The best feature of the Spires is their FlickLock. The lock holds the pole in place and you know it’s closed; no turning and wondering if the lock is holding like other poles. The lock does need minimal maintenance, however. The screw that holds the lock’s latch needs to be checked after and before every trip. It is a standard Phillips screw, and can be turned easily with a penny, knife blade or fingernail. I consider this minimal maintenance just part of taking care of one’s toys, so it is not a detractor.

For their weight, these are the best trekking poles around. The straps are a easily adjustable and large enough to accommodate gloves (but not big mitts) and have a 3D mesh to wick away moisture. Should you break a part, you can get replacement parts from Black Diamond.

I’ve put a 400 or so miles on mine, and they look good-as-new. They hold just as well, too.

Read all Reviews

– MSR Denali III Trekking Poles

If lite is right, then these are it

By: way3806160

I wanted the lightest, collapse-able walking staff.One of these guys is 8oz. , so I have a bonus extra pole too. I don’t like the metal tip.So as I was removing it to modify the pole to accept a crutch tip, which is my prefered tip, the MRS proved to be a really well made thing. If you like standard metal tipsthis one’s really reliable, MSR quality in being put together. If you are a equipment modifer, like I am, this MRS is a great starting point.A bargain too, professionally delivered and fast.

Read all Reviews

– Leki Carbonlite Aergon Antishock Trekking Poles

Awesome Poles

By: ErkMD

Simply put these are amamzing poles and worth the money. To elebroate a little bit, these are exceptionally light compared to ohter poles and it definitely makes a big difference on extended hikes. Additally if that back load is overlwhelming the poles can help bail you out by putting some weight like 3rd and 4th leg. Bottom line – light, strong, durable, perfect for trekking poles.

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Tags: hiking, trekking poles