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10 Best Folding Trekking Poles 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 Blue Lake

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,348
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
62308 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles offer a wide range of height settings, suitable for various users.
Adjustability
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles offer a wide range of height settings, suitable for various users.
Grip Material
The cork grips are comfortable and prevent moisture build-up, ensuring a secure hold even during long hikes.
Locking Mechanism
The lever locking mechanism is sturdy and reliable, never slipping or failing during use.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a lightweight and durable option for those who enjoy hiking on varied terrains. Made from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, they offer sturdiness comparable to carbon fiber but at a lighter weight. One of the standout features is their adjustability, ranging from a maximum height of 54 inches down to a compact 24.5 inches when folded, making them suitable for both adults and kids. The lever locking mechanism is user-friendly, allowing for one-handed operation which is a significant advantage over the traditional twist locks.

The cork grips are designed to wick away moisture and conform to the shape of your hand, providing a comfortable and secure hold, while the padded straps add extra comfort. These trekking poles also come with threaded tips to keep accessories securely attached, even in challenging conditions like snow or mud. On the downside, they lack built-in shock absorption, which might be a consideration for those who need extra cushioning for their joints.

Weighing 1.21 pounds for the pair, they are slightly heavier than some high-end options but still manageable for most users. If you are looking for reliable, easy-to-use trekking poles for a variety of hiking conditions, the TrailBuddy trekking poles are a strong contender.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,348
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
62308 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles offer a wide range of height settings, suitable for various users.
Adjustability
Lightweight and easy to adjust, these poles offer a wide range of height settings, suitable for various users.
Grip Material
The cork grips are comfortable and prevent moisture build-up, ensuring a secure hold even during long hikes.
Locking Mechanism
The lever locking mechanism is sturdy and reliable, never slipping or failing during use.
#2

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
Adjustability
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
62308 reviews

Adjustability
Highly adjustable to any height, these poles come with different spikes for versatility in various terrains, making them a great buy at a good price.
Locking Mechanism
Lightweight and easy to adjust, the locking mechanisms on these poles are sturdy and reliable, never failing or slipping.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a robust choice for hikers and backpackers looking for durable, lightweight, and easy-to-use trekking poles. Made from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum, these poles are designed to withstand tough conditions and provide longevity. Despite their strength, they are lighter than many average trekking poles, which can reduce fatigue during long hikes.

The poles are highly adjustable, with a maximum length of 54 inches and a compact folded length of 24.5 inches, making them suitable for both adults and children. Adjustments can be made quickly using the lever locks, which are more user-friendly than traditional twist locks. The cork grips provide a comfortable, moisture-wicking handle that conforms to the user's hand, and the padded straps add to the comfort.

Additionally, threaded pole tips ensure that accessories remain securely attached in various terrains, including snow and mud. However, at 24.5 inches when folded, they may not be the most compact option available, which could be a consideration for those prioritizing minimal pack size. While the cork handles are comfortable, some users might prefer the feel of foam or rubber grips, especially in wet conditions. The lack of built-in shock absorption could also be a drawback for hikers who traverse very uneven or rocky paths frequently. These trekking poles are best suited for those who value durability, ease of use, and a comfortable grip in their hiking gear.

Rating
9.8
Adjustability
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
62308 reviews

Adjustability
Highly adjustable to any height, these poles come with different spikes for versatility in various terrains, making them a great buy at a good price.
Locking Mechanism
Lightweight and easy to adjust, the locking mechanisms on these poles are sturdy and reliable, never failing or slipping.
#3

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

Rating
9.7
Weight
Folded Length
Adjustability

Most important from
11649 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and sturdy, they are effective for various terrains, from slippery slopes to cold environments like Iceland.
Folded Length
They fold up quickly and compactly, making them convenient to carry in luggage or a backpack.
Adjustability
These poles are easy to unfold, adjust, and don't slip or collapse even under weight.
Grip Material
Despite being marketed with a cork-texture grip, the actual grip material is EVA foam, which may not meet everyone's expectations.

The TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking & Trekking Poles offer a practical solution for hikers seeking lightweight and portable support. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, these poles are strong yet light, with weights of 294g and 306g for different size ranges. The foldable design allows them to collapse down to a compact 15 inches, making them easy to carry in a backpack or luggage, suitable for seniors and avid travelers alike.

The poles feature a cork-texture grip, which helps to wick away sweat and offers a comfortable hold, especially in muddy or extreme terrains. The EVA foam shafts provide additional gripping strength for varied environments. The adjustable flip-lock system and metal stopper ensure a secure and customizable fit for users of different heights, with adjustment ranges of 100-120cm and 115-135cm. This makes the poles versatile for men, women, and teenagers.

The Trek-Z poles are a solid choice for those who prioritize durability and compactness in their trekking gear.

Rating
9.7
Weight
Folded Length
Adjustability

Most important from
11649 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and sturdy, they are effective for various terrains, from slippery slopes to cold environments like Iceland.
Folded Length
They fold up quickly and compactly, making them convenient to carry in luggage or a backpack.
Adjustability
These poles are easy to unfold, adjust, and don't slip or collapse even under weight.
Grip Material
Despite being marketed with a cork-texture grip, the actual grip material is EVA foam, which may not meet everyone's expectations.

Buying Guide for the Best Folding Trekking Poles

Choosing the right folding trekking poles can significantly enhance your hiking experience by providing stability, reducing strain on your joints, and improving your balance on uneven terrain. When selecting trekking poles, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure they meet your needs and preferences. Here are the main factors to consider and how to navigate them.
MaterialThe material of the trekking poles affects their weight, durability, and cost. Common materials include aluminum and carbon fiber. Aluminum poles are generally more durable and less expensive, but they are heavier. Carbon fiber poles are lighter and absorb vibrations better, making them more comfortable for long hikes, but they can be more expensive and less durable. If you prioritize durability and cost, aluminum might be the best choice. If you prefer lightweight gear and are willing to invest more, carbon fiber could be the way to go.
WeightThe weight of the trekking poles can impact your overall hiking experience. Lighter poles are easier to carry and can reduce fatigue, especially on long hikes. However, lighter poles may also be less durable. Heavier poles, while more robust, can add to the strain on your arms over time. Consider how long and strenuous your hikes typically are. For shorter, less demanding hikes, weight may be less of a concern. For longer, more challenging treks, lighter poles can make a significant difference.
Folded LengthThe folded length of trekking poles determines how compact they are when not in use. This is important for portability and storage. Shorter folded lengths are easier to pack and carry, especially if you need to stow them in a backpack or suitcase. If you travel frequently or need to store your poles in a small space, look for poles with a shorter folded length. If portability is less of a concern, you may have more flexibility in your choice.
AdjustabilityAdjustable trekking poles allow you to change their length to suit different terrains and personal preferences. This can be particularly useful when going uphill or downhill, as you can shorten or lengthen the poles accordingly. Fixed-length poles are lighter and simpler but lack this versatility. If you hike on varied terrain, adjustable poles can provide more comfort and stability. If you mostly hike on flat terrain, fixed-length poles might be sufficient.
Grip MaterialThe grip material affects comfort and sweat absorption. Common materials include cork, foam, and rubber. Cork grips conform to your hand over time and are good at wicking away moisture, making them comfortable for long hikes. Foam grips are soft and absorb sweat well but may wear out faster. Rubber grips are durable and provide a firm hold but can become slippery when wet. Consider how much you sweat and the typical weather conditions of your hikes. Choose a grip material that will provide comfort and control in those conditions.
Locking MechanismThe locking mechanism secures the poles at your desired length. Common types include lever locks, twist locks, and push-button locks. Lever locks are easy to adjust and very secure, making them a popular choice. Twist locks are lighter but can be less reliable over time. Push-button locks are simple and quick to use but may not offer as much adjustability. If you need to adjust your poles frequently, lever locks might be the best option. If you prefer simplicity and speed, push-button locks could be more suitable.
Shock AbsorptionSome trekking poles come with built-in shock absorption to reduce impact on your joints. This feature can be particularly beneficial on rocky or hard surfaces. However, shock-absorbing poles can be slightly heavier and more expensive. If you have joint issues or plan to hike on very rough terrain, shock absorption can provide extra comfort. If you prefer lighter poles and hike on softer ground, you might not need this feature.

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