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10 Best Ultralight 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

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

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,285
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
11880 reviews

Weight
They fold up quickly and don't take up much room, making them light and easy to use without thinking about their weight.
Adjustability
These trekking poles are easy to unfold, adjust, and don't slip or collapse under weight, providing a secure feeling on slopes or wet trails.
Grip Material
While the grips are EVA foam made to look like cork, the overall quality of the poles is impressive, with a thicker cable running through the sections for added durability.

The TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Collapsible Hiking & Trekking Poles are designed to provide strong support for hikers of all heights and sizes, including seniors, women, and men. These poles are exceptionally lightweight, with the smaller size (100-120cm) weighing only 294g (10.4oz) and the larger size (115-135cm) at 306g (10.8oz). They are constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, making them durable and capable of withstanding rough terrains and heavier weights, which is a significant advantage over carbon fiber alternatives.

The poles feature a cork-texture grip that wicks away sweat and EVA foam shafts for a firm grip in various conditions, ensuring comfort and stability during hikes. The adjustable flip-lock system allows for a 20cm range of adjustment, making these poles versatile for users of varying heights. Additionally, their compact, tri-fold design collapses down to 15 inches (38 cm), making them easy to carry and store.

However, potential drawbacks include being manufactured in China, which might concern those preferring locally made products. Also, while the cork-texture grip is beneficial for sweat absorption, it may not offer the same comfort or longevity as full cork grips. These trekking poles are ideal for anyone looking for a robust, lightweight, and easily portable option for hiking and trekking.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,285
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
11880 reviews

Weight
They fold up quickly and don't take up much room, making them light and easy to use without thinking about their weight.
Adjustability
These trekking poles are easy to unfold, adjust, and don't slip or collapse under weight, providing a secure feeling on slopes or wet trails.
Grip Material
While the grips are EVA foam made to look like cork, the overall quality of the poles is impressive, with a thicker cable running through the sections for added durability.
#2

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

Rating
9.6
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
62555 reviews

Weight
Lightweight design combined with surprising strength supports full body weight without any slipping or collapsing, even on steep and uneven terrain.
Adjustability
Versatile length adjustment from 54 to 24.5 inches fits a wide range of users and terrain types, making them suitable for both adults and children.
Grip Material
Comfortable cork grips and padded straps help maintain a secure hold and prevent wrist pain, even for those with joint issues or arthritis.
Locking Mechanism
The one-handed lever lock system is intuitive, quick to adjust, and remains secure under heavy use, outperforming traditional twist locks.
Tip Material
The included carrying bag and accessory tips add convenience and adaptability for diverse hiking conditions like woods, mud, or snow.

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are a solid choice for anyone looking for ultralight trekking poles that balance durability and ease of use. Made from 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum, they are surprisingly strong—actually tougher than some carbon fiber poles—yet still lightweight, saving around 4 ounces compared to typical poles. This makes them easier to carry on long hikes or backpacking trips. You can adjust each pole quickly from 54 inches down to 24.5 inches, which is convenient for different terrains or even for kids. The lever lock system stands out because you can unlock and adjust the poles with one hand, which is simpler and faster than the twist locks many poles use.

Their cork grips feel comfortable and naturally wick away moisture, helping maintain a secure hold even when your hands sweat. The padded straps add to the secure fit. The tips are threaded to keep accessories firmly attached and perform well in snow or muddy conditions. One trade-off is that while 7075 aluminum is tough, it may be a bit heavier than carbon fiber if absolute minimum weight is your priority, but TrailBuddy still manages a good balance here.

These poles are well suited for hikers who want reliable, durable poles that won’t weigh them down and are easy to adjust on the go.

Rating
9.6
Weight
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
62555 reviews

Weight
Lightweight design combined with surprising strength supports full body weight without any slipping or collapsing, even on steep and uneven terrain.
Adjustability
Versatile length adjustment from 54 to 24.5 inches fits a wide range of users and terrain types, making them suitable for both adults and children.
Grip Material
Comfortable cork grips and padded straps help maintain a secure hold and prevent wrist pain, even for those with joint issues or arthritis.
Locking Mechanism
The one-handed lever lock system is intuitive, quick to adjust, and remains secure under heavy use, outperforming traditional twist locks.
Tip Material
The included carrying bag and accessory tips add convenience and adaptability for diverse hiking conditions like woods, mud, or snow.
#3

TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Cork Grip Trekking Poles – Lightweight Folding Hiking Poles, Adjustable Height, Compact Travel Design, Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Walking Sticks for Men & Women

Rating
9.3
Material
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
6428 reviews

Material
Constructed from durable aluminum, they offer a balance of strength and lightness, making them ideal for rough terrains.
Adjustability
While one user experienced an issue with a pole not holding its extension, the overall performance, especially the grip and tip durability, was highly praised.
Grip Material
Cork handles provide an ergonomic grip, effectively wicking moisture to reduce sweat and prevent blisters.
Tip Material
Versatility is enhanced with interchangeable tips and baskets, suitable for diverse environments, including rocky, icy, and soft grounds.

The TREKOLOGY Trekking Poles are a great choice for ultralight trekking enthusiasts due to their lightweight design, weighing only 11.5 ounces per pole. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, these poles are built to withstand rough terrain and heavier loads better than carbon fiber options, making them durable for long-term use. The collapsible design is particularly handy, allowing the poles to fold down to just 15 inches, which makes them easy to pack and transport.

The poles offer adjustability with a range from 110cm to 130cm, accommodating users between 5’2” and 6’5”. This adjustability is enabled by an innovative metal flip-lock mechanism, which ensures the poles remain secure during hikes. The cork handle is an excellent feature that wicks away sweat, providing comfort and maintaining a good grip.

However, one potential drawback is the aluminum construction, which, while strong, might be slightly heavier than some carbon fiber alternatives. Additionally, since the product targets a broad audience, the one-size-fits-most approach could be less ideal for those not within the specified height range.

The TREKOLOGY poles are well-suited for a variety of users, including seniors and women, due to their lightweight and compact nature. They are also a thoughtful gift for outdoor lovers who appreciate practical and convenient trekking gear. With a high customer rating, these poles are well-regarded in the trekking community, offering both functionality and durability for all your hiking and trekking adventures.

Rating
9.3
Material
Adjustability
Grip Material

Most important from
6428 reviews

Material
Constructed from durable aluminum, they offer a balance of strength and lightness, making them ideal for rough terrains.
Adjustability
While one user experienced an issue with a pole not holding its extension, the overall performance, especially the grip and tip durability, was highly praised.
Grip Material
Cork handles provide an ergonomic grip, effectively wicking moisture to reduce sweat and prevent blisters.
Tip Material
Versatility is enhanced with interchangeable tips and baskets, suitable for diverse environments, including rocky, icy, and soft grounds.

Buying Guide for the Best Ultralight Trekking Poles

Choosing the right ultralight 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 you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main factors to consider and how to navigate them.
WeightWeight is a crucial factor in ultralight trekking poles as it directly affects your energy expenditure and comfort during long hikes. Lighter poles are easier to carry and swing, reducing fatigue. Typically, ultralight poles weigh between 5 to 10 ounces per pole. If you plan on long-distance hiking or thru-hiking, opt for the lightest poles available. For shorter hikes or if you need more durability, slightly heavier poles might be acceptable.
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 heavier. Carbon fiber poles are lighter and absorb shocks better but can be more expensive and less durable in extreme conditions. Choose carbon fiber if weight is your primary concern and you are hiking on well-maintained trails. Opt for aluminum if you need more durability and are hiking in rugged terrain.
AdjustabilityAdjustability refers to the ability to change the length of the poles. Adjustable poles can be extended or shortened to match the terrain or your height, providing better support and comfort. Fixed-length poles are lighter and simpler but lack versatility. If you hike on varied terrain or share poles with others, adjustable poles are a better choice. For ultralight enthusiasts who prioritize weight savings, fixed-length poles might be preferable.
Grip MaterialThe grip material affects comfort and moisture management. 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 well but can wear out faster. Rubber grips are durable and provide a firm hold but can become slippery when wet. Choose cork grips for long hikes in warm weather, foam grips for comfort and moisture absorption, and rubber grips for durability in wet conditions.
Locking MechanismThe locking mechanism secures the adjustable sections of the poles. Common types include lever locks and twist locks. Lever locks are easy to adjust and secure, even with gloves on, but can be slightly heavier. Twist locks are lighter but can be harder to adjust and may slip over time. If you need quick and reliable adjustments, go for lever locks. If you prioritize weight savings and don't mind occasional adjustments, twist locks might be suitable.
Tip MaterialThe tip material affects the pole's grip on different surfaces. Carbide tips are durable and provide excellent traction on rocky terrain. Rubber tips are quieter and better for use on paved surfaces but wear out faster. Some poles come with interchangeable tips for versatility. Choose carbide tips for rugged, off-road hiking and rubber tips for urban or mixed-surface hiking. Interchangeable tips offer the best of both worlds if you hike on varied terrain.

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