Start with a pole length that gives you about a 90-degree bend in your elbows when the tips are on level ground near your feet. Shorten the poles for sustained climbs and lengthen them for sustained descents; on a traverse, adjust the uphill and downhill poles separately. For routes with changing grades, an adjustable pair is usually the most practical format.
Choose a pole style for your route
A pair or a single staff
A pair of trekking poles offers support on both sides and is a direct fit for routes with changing grades. A single hiking staff may be enough on relatively flat terrain, particularly when carrying little or no load. These are general distinctions from REI Co-op’s trekking-pole selection guide, not a rule that every hiker must use two poles.
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Adjustable, fixed-length or folding
Adjustable poles let you change length for climbs, descents and traverses, and can be shared among users with different preferred settings. Their extra components can add weight. Fixed-length poles have fewer parts and may suit an activity where one length works throughout and minimizing weight is the priority. Folding poles pack down compactly and deploy quickly, but check their packed size as well as whether they offer the on-trail adjustments you need. REI discusses these trade-offs in its selection guide.
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- Stand on level ground in the footwear you expect to hike in.
- Place the pole tips on the ground near your feet and hold the grips.
- Adjust until your elbows bend about 90 degrees. Treat this as a starting point, then fine-tune for comfort while walking.
- If you are buying fixed-length poles, use the manufacturer’s height chart. REI’s chart is a rough starting point; pole designs and sizing guidance vary.
With a three-section adjustable pole, REI suggests setting the lower section for your baseline fit and keeping the upper adjustment around the middle of its range. Use the upper section for terrain changes, while staying within the pole’s marked adjustment limits. See REI’s sizing advice.
#1 Best Overall
- Exceptional Quality and Comfort - Crafted from aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum, each 10-ounce trekking pole is highly durable in all conditions.
- Quick Lock Mechanism - Designed with rugged terrain in mind. Easily adjust your trekking poles from 26”- 54” without breaking your stride.
- Cork Grip with Extended EVA Down Grip - Ergonomic cork grip helps reduce vibration from uneven terrain. Extended EVA down grip provides additional hand placement options for steep climbs and varied trail conditions.
- All-Terrain Accessories - Includes tungsten carbide tips for year-round use, plus rubber snow and mud baskets, boots, and tip covers designed for different trail conditions.
- Portable Design - Lightweight poles collapse for easy storage in a hiking pack or backpack and include a travel bag for transport on day hikes, backpacking trips, or long-distance treks.
Adjust length to the grade
| Terrain | Starting adjustment | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Level or easy mixed trail | Use your baseline, with roughly a 90-degree elbow bend | Fine-tune for a comfortable, natural arm swing. |
| Sustained uphill | Shorten each pole by about 5–10 cm (2–4 inches) from baseline | On steeper climbs, shorten further if useful, but do not let your shoulders ride upward. |
| Sustained downhill | Lengthen each pole by about 5–10 cm (2–4 inches) from baseline | Check that you can reach the lower ground without leaning excessively; longer poles can help keep you more upright and take some initial impact. |
| Side slope or traverse | Shorten the uphill-side pole and lengthen the downhill-side pole as needed | Adjust each pole until your stance feels comfortable and stable. |
The 5–10 cm (2–4 inch) changes are REI’s starting recommendations, not fixed requirements. Body proportions, pole design, slope and comfort affect the setting. Recheck your posture as the terrain changes. REI’s selection guidance and use guidance describe these adjustments.
Compare features that affect comfort and control
Locks
Poles use external lever locks, push-button locks, twist locks or combinations of mechanisms. Choose a system you can operate confidently, and verify the sections are locked securely before hiking. A slipping section can change the pole length when you are leaning on it.
Rank #2
- Natural Cork Grip Handle: Cork grips naturally absorb hand moisture to keep your grip dry on long hikes. Note: cork grips have a slight rotational flex; this is an anti-torque ergonomic feature, not a defect. Paired with lightweight aluminum shafts and EVA foam lower grips for stability on rugged terrain. Trekking poles must be checked in as luggage (not carry-on) per TSA and most airline rules. Set of 2 with carry bag included.
- Engineered and Built To Last: Keeping your Adventurous nature in mind, we knew that No detail could be overlooked! Made with aircraft grade aluminum-crucial for hiking or backpacking in rough terrains and supporting heavier weights. The joints use added metal caps and lock to length when fully extended. Cork grip absorbs sweat out of your hands. Pick up your map and start your adventure!
- Compact Design that is Ready to Go When You Are: Trek-Z hiking poles collapsible design, fold down to a portable 15 inches (38 cm), thanks to its retractable tri-fold system. Fitting into backpack, luggage cases, or duffel bags for compact travel! Walking sticks for women- No more cumbersome walking sticks! Trek-Z walking poles give you the ability to build strength and muscle while you run errands. Let these unique poles go with you to all your outdoor leisure activities and adventures!
- Sizing - We've Got You Covered: Easily adjust the trekking poles from 110 cm to 130 cm (20 cm range) using the durable metal flip lock system for a secure, customized fit. After assembly, pull the metal lock button until it pops out to lock the pole in place. If the pole feels loose, re-seat the button until fully engaged - it is not a defect. Designed to fit men, women, and teens 5'2" to 6'5" (159-195 cm). Includes 1 pair of trekking poles and a carry bag.
- Lighter Than Your Average Umbrella: Each pole weighs only 11.5 oz (330g), light enough for all-day hiking, backpacking in high mountains, or ski trail use. Built with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy for the strength-to-weight ratio you need on demanding trails. Whether you enjoy fishing, hiking, trekking, or everyday walking, these collapsible poles deliver the support you need.
Grip, shaft and weight
Prioritize a grip that feels comfortable in your hand and a shaft weight you can swing repeatedly. Lower swing weight may matter on long walks, while durability and overall weight also depend on the materials and construction. There is no single best balance for every route or hiker.
Shock absorption
Spring-based shock absorption may be useful if downhill impact is a concern. Standard poles are lighter and less expensive, and still provide balance and support. Shock absorption is an option, not a requirement for everyone.
Rank #3
- Pack-and-Go: Extends to 51.2" (130 cm), collapses to 25.6" (65 cm), and disassembles to 21.46" (54.5 cm). When separated into three sections, they fit diagonally in most 22"+ suitcases. For air travelers, check your luggage’s interior length before ordering to meet airline baggage rules. For outdoor hikers, we recommend secure poles externally using backpack loops or straps
- Lightweight but Strong, Only 9.92 oz (282 g) Each: Each pole weighs about the same as a 250 ml drink can, keeping your pack light while delivering dependable support. Built from high-strength aluminum alloy, it offers excellent impact resistance and fatigue durability. Adjustable from 25.6"(65 cm) to 51.2"(130 cm), it fits men, women, teens, and seniors. Available in five stylish colors, perfect for gifting
- Quick & Smooth Twist-Lock Adjustment: Adjust your pole height in seconds with our refined glove-friendly twist-lock system. No bulky external levers, no snags, no fiddly parts - just a clean, streamlined design that tightens securely with a simple twist, even in cold weather or wearing gloves
- All-Terrain Comfort and Stability: Enjoy a natural and secure hold with the non-slip ergonomic rubber grip. Includes a complete accessory kit: rubber tips, walking caps, mud baskets, and snow baskets, designed for all seasons and trail conditions. The built-in shock-absorbing spring that dampens trail impact, enhancing stability and comfort during use
- Durable for Every Season and Every Trail: Built with rugged aluminum that withstands rough trails, rocky paths, cold weather, and daily use. A dependable companion for walking, hiking, trekking, fitness training, and backpacking trips, year after year
Baskets and tips
- Baskets can help keep poles from sinking in mud or snow; choose them for the conditions you expect.
- Carbide or steel tips can provide traction on rough rock or ice.
- Rubber protectors can keep tips from damaging gear when poles are stowed. Angled rubber tips are intended for hard surfaces.
These accessories are condition-specific. Check what comes with the poles and what is compatible before choosing.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Use the poles without fighting your stride
- Put your hand up through the bottom of the wrist strap, then grip the handle. Properly positioned, the strap supports the wrist and heel of your hand.
- Walk with a natural arm swing and generally plant each pole as the opposite foot steps forward.
- On steep terrain, double-planting may provide added stability. Use a movement that feels controlled rather than forcing a particular rhythm.
- Avoid straining your shoulders by pulling upward or pushing backward on the poles.
REI contributor Syren Nagakyrie, founder and director of Disabled Hikers, emphasizes adapting pole use to the individual: “While it is important to practice proper technique with hiking poles, the most important thing is to use them in the way that feels right for your body, which may mean adapting their use.” This approach recognizes that technique can be adapted rather than treating one gait as right for everyone.
Rank #4
- 【Lighter Versatile Materials】 KINGGEAR collapsible trekking poles shaft is made of durable aviation grade 7075 Aluminum, lighter than typical 6061 Aluminum and stronger than carbon fiber, bearing more weight in rugged terrains.
- 【Secured Quick Adjustment】 KINGGEAR hiking poles are adjustable and retractable with our durable quick flip lock. Extended from 25.5 inches to 54 inches to suit the whole family. The right height of trekking poles helps to burn more calories while minimize critical impacts and injuries.
- 【Ergonomic Anti-Sweat Anti-Slip】 The natural cork grip is sweat wicking and conform to custom to your grip to reduce chafing. The bottom EVA effectively absorb sweat from your palm. The adjustable and breathable wristband further hinder poles slipping away from your hands.
- 【Comfort Traction Balance Accessories】A variety of different Hiking accessories for different trekking terrains are included to increase traction and maintain balance. The compressed Tungsten Carbide tip can be used for rocky and most demanding terrains, 2 snow basket for skiing activities, 2 mud basket for cross trailing events, 2 toughen rubber protective tips and 2 Nordic Walking boot tips.
- 【Trusted Choice of Hikers】Trusted by over 400,000+ obsessive hikers since 1999, you will feel 100% satisfaction from the moment you received our poles. With LIFETIME GUARANTEE and our customer service on Amazon welcome ANY QUESTIONS AT ANYTIME on our trekking poles!
Check and care for your poles
- Before setting out, confirm that adjustment locks are secure.
- After hiking, clear debris from the poles and let straps dry before storage.
- Choose baskets and tips for the trail conditions rather than assuming one setup suits every surface.
Know what trekking poles are—and are not—for
Trekking poles are recreational hiking equipment, not medical canes or substitutes for mobility aids. REI says they are not designed to support full body weight. If you need a device for medical mobility or substantial weight-bearing support, do not rely on trekking poles as a replacement.
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