I learned about trekking poles the hard way. About halfway through a section of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, I hit a stretch of exposed rock near Linville Gorge that had me slipping and scrambling. My knees were screaming by the time I made camp. The next morning, I borrowed poles from another hiker and the difference was immediate. On rocky terrain, poles aren't a luxury. They're the difference between finishing strong and limping out.
What matters most is durability and weight. You want aircraft-grade aluminum that can take a beating without adding pounds to your pack. Cork grips absorb sweat better than foam and won't slip when you're working hard. Adjustable locks let you shorten poles for uphill climbs and lengthen them for descents. The best poles collapse small enough to strap to your pack when you don't need them.
1. Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles
These are solid entry-level poles that won't break the bank. The 6061 aluminum feels sturdy enough for technical terrain, and I like that they extend to 54 inches. That matters if you're tall or dealing with steep descents where you need extra reach.
The cork grip works well for multi-day trips. It molds to your hand over time and stays dry even when you're sweating. The EVA foam extension below the grip is useful when you're traversing slopes and need to choke up without adjusting the whole pole.
Pros:
- Light enough at 0.63 pounds per pole to forget you're carrying them
- Cork absorbs moisture without getting slippery
- Good adjustment range for different users and terrain
- Bright orange makes them easy to spot if you set them down
Cons:
- Won't hold up to serious mountaineering or ice climbing
- Cork needs occasional cleaning to prevent degradation
2. Trailbuddy Trekking Poles
TrailBuddy uses 7075 aluminum, which is stronger than the 6061 you see on cheaper poles. The collapsible design is the real selling point here. They fold down to about 15 inches, which fits inside most backpacks. That's huge if you're doing mixed terrain where you want poles in your pack until you need them.
At 1.2 pounds for the pair, these are light but not flimsy. The cork grips have held up well on every hike I've used them for. The Red Beetle color stands out on the trail, which helps when you lean them against a tree and walk away.
Pros:
- 7075 aluminum is tougher than standard poles
- Collapses small for easy packing
- Cork handles moisture without getting tacky
- Noticeable color prevents losing them
Cons:
- Folding mechanism needs occasional tightening
- Not ideal for constant heavy use in extreme conditions
3. Trekology Trek-z Collapsible Hiking & Trekking Poles
These are marketed for seniors, but don't let that fool you. At 0.73 pounds per pole, they're among the lightest options out there. The collapsible design is quick to set up, which matters when you're dealing with changing terrain and don't want to waste time adjusting.
The adjustable height works well across different body sizes. I've lent these to shorter hikers who had no trouble dialing in the right length. They're not bombproof, but for most day hikes and backpacking trips, they do the job without complaint.
Pros:
- Extremely light without feeling fragile
- Fast deployment when you need them
- Adjusts easily for different users
- Good value for occasional hikers
Cons:
- Locking joints can loosen over time
- Not built for rough scrambling or technical climbing
4. Trekology Trek-z Cork Grip Trekking Poles
The cork grip version of the Trek-Z is worth the upgrade if you're doing longer trips. Cork feels better than foam after a full day on the trail. It absorbs hand sweat and prevents blisters better than any synthetic material I've tried.
The folding design packs down tight, which I appreciate when I'm trying to minimize pack volume. These work equally well for men and women, which is rare. Most poles either run too short or too long for smaller hikers. The adjustment range here covers most body types.
Pros:
- Cork grips reduce hand fatigue on long hikes
- Aircraft-grade aluminum balances weight and strength
- Compact fold makes them packable
- Adjusts to fit different heights comfortably
Cons:
- Takes practice to fold and unfold smoothly
- Gray color can be hard to spot in dim light
5. 2pcs Aerospace 7075 Aluminum Collapsible Trekking Poles
The 7075 aluminum makes these noticeably tougher than entry-level poles. I've banged them against rocks and tree roots without dents. The shock-absorbing system actually works, which you feel in your wrists on downhill sections. It's not a gimmick.
The combination cork and EVA grips give you options. Use the cork for normal hiking and grip lower on the EVA when you're traversing or need a different hand position. The flick lock is fast and secure. I haven't had one slip on me yet.
Pros:
- Aerospace aluminum holds up to rough use
- Shock absorption reduces wrist and elbow strain
- Dual grip materials for versatility
- Locks stay tight through hard hiking
Cons:
- Orange and black color may not suit everyone
- Lock mechanism needs occasional cleaning
6. Black Diamond Trail Cork Trekking Poles
Black Diamond knows climbing gear, and it shows in these poles. The build quality is a step above budget options. The aluminum feels solid, and the collapsible design folds tight without rattling. Cork grips are properly shaped and don't require a break-in period.
At just over 1.27 pounds for the pair, they're light enough for long-distance hiking. The granite color is understated, which I prefer. These are good all-around poles that work for everything from day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips.
Pros:
- Lightweight without sacrificing durability
- Cork grips wick moisture efficiently
- Collapses small for easy storage
- Neutral color works for any situation
Cons:
- Not designed for extreme mountaineering
- Cork can wear down after heavy use
7. Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles
The Trail Back model is similar to the Cork version but with a different grip material and color. The dark crimson stands out on the trail. The aluminum construction is the same reliable build you get from Black Diamond. These pack down well when you need them stowed.
The adjustable length covers most heights comfortably. I've used these on rocky sections and found them stable and responsive. They're not the lightest poles available, but the trade-off is durability that lasts through seasons of hard use. While you're at it, take a look at our waterproof hiking boots. While you're at it, take a look at our lightweight backpack.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Durable aluminum stands up to rocky trails
- Adjustable for different terrains and users
- Crimson color is easy to see
Cons:
- Slightly bulkier when collapsed than ultralight models
- Heavier than carbon fiber alternatives
How to Pick the Right One
- For mixed terrain where you'll pack poles away: TrailBuddy or Trekology Trek-Z collapsible models
- For long-distance backpacking: Black Diamond Trail Cork or Trekology Cork Grip for comfort
- For budget-conscious hikers: Cascade Mountain Tech offers solid performance without premium pricing
- For rough, rocky trails: 7075 aluminum models like TrailBuddy or the Aerospace poles
- For tall hikers or steep descents: Cascade Mountain Tech extends to 54 inches
Bottom Line
Cork grips and adjustable aluminum shafts are the baseline. After that, it comes down to weight, packability, and durability. Pick poles that fit your height, fold small if you need them to, and feel solid when you plant them on rock. For related gear, check out our collapsible poles for travel.
