Unearth The Voyage
Embarking on a hiking adventure in 2025? Equip yourself with the best trekking poles that promise durability, comfort, and innovation. Here’s a curated list of trekking poles tailored for every hiking enthusiast, ranging from ultralight models to rugged all-terrain champions. Discover which poles suit your trail needs and enhance your hiking experience.
1. Black Diamond Trail Cork — Best All-Around for Most Hikers
The Black Diamond Trail Cork stands as a beacon of reliability for hikers of all levels. With its robust four-season design, it promises consistent performance on any trail. The cork grips enhance comfort, making long hikes a breeze. This pole’s most remarkable feature is its eco-conscious construction, incorporating 30% pre-consumer recycled aluminum. Whether tackling day hikes or embarking on extended backpacking trips, the Trail Cork offers a balance of durability and comfort. Hikers who prioritize dependable equipment will find this pole an indispensable companion.
2. LEKI Makalu Cork Lite — Fast Adjustments, Classic Feel
Experience the swift adaptability of the LEKI Makalu Cork Lite. Designed for the on-the-go enthusiast, its Speed Lock levers allow easy, infinite length adjustments. This pole is crafted from HTS 6.5 aluminum, ensuring resilience on various terrains. Weighing approximately 254 grams per pole, it is both lightweight and sturdy. The real cork grips offer a classic touch, enhancing grip during extended hikes. Perfect for those who enjoy on-trail trekking and appreciate gear that adapts to changing elevations and conditions with ease.
3. MSR DynaLock Ascent — Backcountry-Ready Foldable Poles
The MSR DynaLock Ascent is engineered for adventurers seeking a balance between durability and weight. Its stout DynaLock clamp is adjustable even in the field, ensuring a tailored fit for every trek. Weighing in at about 15.7 ounces per pair, these poles are crafted for demanding terrains. The folding design adds to their versatility, making them easy to pack when not in use. Suitable for mixed seasons and snowshoeing adventures, these poles are essential for those venturing into more rugged landscapes.
4. REI Co-op Flash Carbon (and Flash Carbon Compact) — Lightweight Value
The REI Co-op Flash Carbon series offers an enticing blend of lightweight design and affordability. Ideal for hikers conscious of packing weight, these poles feature carbon upper and lower sections that ensure strength without added bulk. The Compact version is perfect for smaller hikers or those desiring tighter packing. With a weight of just 12.9 ounces per pair, these poles make an excellent choice for those seeking mainstream pricing with the benefits of carbon performance. They are a practical option for hikers who value both quality and budget-friendly gear.
5. Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z — Fast & Light Favorite
For trail runners and ultralight enthusiasts, the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z is a top pick. As BD’s lightest Z-Pole, its three-section folding design is both innovative and practical. Despite its featherweight 10–10.4 ounces per pair, it doesn’t compromise on strength. While the design is non-adjustable, its quick deployment feature is unmatched, making it ideal for fast-paced trails. This pole is particularly favored by those aiming for speed records or enjoying light pack adventures. A true testament to efficient design in ultralight hiking gear.
6. Gossamer Gear LT5 — Ultralight Telescoping
Gossamer Gear’s LT5 embodies the pinnacle of ultralight trekking technology. This three-piece telescoping pole is celebrated among ultralight backpackers for its remarkable weight savings. While some users note potential durability trade-offs, the LT5 is ideal for those who prize minimalism and efficiency above all else. Its simple, effective design allows for easy adjustment, making it a versatile choice for various hiking scenarios. Perfectly suited for experienced hikers who prioritize grams saved, this pole underscores the art of traveling light.
7. LEKI Cressida FX Carbon (Women’s-Specific) — Compact, Feature-Rich
The LEKI Cressida FX Carbon is tailored for women hikers, offering a compact and lightweight solution tailored to smaller hands. With its folding carbon design, it promises both portability and strength. The Aergon Air grips, specifically designed for female hikers, enhance comfort during long treks. Its cork grip tops add a touch of luxury, ensuring a pleasant hiking experience. Reviews emphasize the pole’s adjustability and refined ergonomics, making it a favorite among those seeking a premium, women-specific trekking pole.
8. Black Diamond Pursuit FLZ — Packable Cork-Grip All-Rounder
The Black Diamond Pursuit FLZ is a versatile trekking pole that combines the convenience of a folding design with the comfort of cork grips. Its soft-touch FlickLock+ mechanism ensures easy length adjustments, catering to various hiking terrains. Constructed with UL-validated 30% recycled aluminum, this pole is both eco-friendly and functional. A built-in 1.5 mm hex bit adds to its practical appeal, allowing for minor in-field maintenance. Tailored for hikers who seek compactness without sacrificing comfort, this pole is a reliable companion on diverse trails.
9. Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber — Best Budget Carbon
Cascade Mountain Tech presents a budget-friendly option with its Carbon Fiber trekking poles. Despite their lower price point, these poles feature carbon shafts coupled with quick-lock adjusters, offering impressive performance and durability. Optional cork grips provide added comfort, enhancing the hiking experience. This pole is particularly appealing to new hikers or budget-conscious individuals who want the benefits of carbon without the premium price tag. Its strong value proposition makes it a standout choice for those entering the world of hiking gear.
10. Editor’s Tie: REI Co-op Flash Folding (Carbon) or LEKI Makalu Lite
Decisions, decisions! For those torn between foldable convenience and classic telescoping, the Editor’s Tie offers two outstanding choices. The REI Co-op Flash Folding Carbon provides the compactness of a tri-fold with carbon performance, making it a great travel companion. Meanwhile, the LEKI Makalu Lite delivers proven aluminum durability for those tackling rougher terrains. These poles cater to hikers with specific preferences, whether it’s packability or robust construction. Each option stands out in its own right, offering unique benefits tailored to different hiking needs.
