Best Trekking Poles – Our Top 10 Picks for 2025

Ready to hit the trails but not sure which trekking poles will have your back (and your knees)? We’ve done the hard work for you — testing, comparing, and shortlisting the very best models on the market right now.

Whether you’re planning a multi-day hike, a quick weekend trek, or you just want to save your joints on steep descents, the right trekking poles can make all the difference. They give you extra stability, help distribute weight, and keep your momentum even when the trail gets rough.

In our list, you’ll find ultralight carbon poles, rugged all-season performers, and budget-friendly options that still pack serious quality. Each one has been carefully reviewed for comfort, durability, weight, and adjustability — so you can spend less time researching and more time exploring.

Choosing the best trekking poles isn’t just about picking the lightest or the most expensive set you can find. It’s about finding the perfect balance between comfort, durability, and performance — so you can hike longer, safer, and with less strain.

First, think about weight. Lighter poles are easier to carry, especially on multi-day treks, but as we’ve covered in our Trekking Poles Height guide, stability and correct length matter just as much as the number on the scale. Ultralight carbon options are great for speed and distance, while aluminum models often win in pure durability.

When you’re comparing models, keep these key points in mind:

• Weight & material – carbon for lightness, aluminum for durability
• Grip type – cork, foam, or rubber based on comfort and climate
• Adjustability – telescoping, folding, or hybrid designs
• Locking mechanism – flick lock, twist lock, or DynaLock-style systems
• Packability – how small it folds for travel and storage
• Durability – resistance to bending, breaking, and wear over time

Grip material is another big factor. Cork grips mold to your hands over time and wick away sweat. Foam grips are soft and lightweight, while rubber offers better insulation in cold conditions. In our How to Choose Trekking Poles article, we shared that the right grip can make the difference between a comfortable hike and sore, tired hands.

Finally, look at adjustability and locking mechanisms. Telescoping poles adjust to your height and terrain, folding poles pack down small for travel, and hybrid designs give you a bit of both. Make sure the locks are reliable and easy to use — even with gloves on.

If you’re unsure which features matter most for your hikes, check out our in-depth guide on how to choose trekking poles. It breaks down height adjustments, materials, and comfort features so you can make a confident choice.

By focusing on these features, you’ll find trekking poles that not only suit your hiking style but also stand the test of time and terrain.

1. Black Diamond Pursuit

If we had to crown one pair as the best trekking poles for 2025, the Black Diamond Pursuit would take the top spot. These poles hit the rare sweet spot of durability, comfort, and all-season versatility — making them just as at home on summer hiking trails as they are on snowy ski runs.

We’ve tested them in everything from rocky off-trail scrambles to early-season mogul skiing, and they handled it all without a bend, break, or even a scratch worth mentioning. The aluminum shafts are impressively tough, shrugging off impacts that would leave marks on lesser poles.

At 1 lb 0.4 oz per pair, the Pursuit is surprisingly light for aluminum, rivaling some carbon models in feel. A big part of their appeal is the natural cork grip — it molds to your hand over time, wicks away sweat, and absorbs shock better than foam. Add to that the padded wrist straps (a rare feature in our top picks) and you’ve got exceptional comfort for long days on the trail.

The telescoping design is smooth and precise, with clear length markings and easy-to-use flick locks that work even with gloves on. They collapse down to 24 inches, making them easy to stow, and come with both summer and winter baskets for year-round use.

Key Specs:

• Weight (pair): 1 lb 0.4 oz
• Material: Aluminum + cork grip
• Collapsed length: 24 in
• Approx. price: 170 USD

Pros:

• Cork grips wick sweat and absorb shock
• Padded wrist straps for extra comfort
• Excellent durability — barely scratches even after impact tests
• Interchangeable summer and winter baskets
• Smooth telescoping adjustment with precise markings

Cons:

• Not the cheapest option in the lineup
• Slightly bulkier when packed than folding poles

Our take: If you want one pole for every adventure, the Black Diamond Pursuit delivers. It’s tough enough for winter sports, light enough for long hikes, and comfortable enough to keep you going mile after mile.

2. Durston Iceline

If you’re the kind of hiker who counts every ounce in your pack, the Durston Iceline trekking poles will make you smile. These poles are one of the lightest we’ve ever tested — yet they still manage to pack in enough strength for demanding backcountry routes.

Their unique hybrid design blends the quick deployment of folding poles with the adjustability of telescoping models. The result? Setup is incredibly fast — perfect when you’re in the middle of a windy ridgeline or need to adjust on the go. We took them into the Chiricahua Mountains of Arizona, where they breezed through snowy ascents and helped us push through thick brush on the way down.

At just 9.5 oz per pair (without straps), these are true ultralight performers. The carbon fiber shafts keep the weight low while offering better durability than we expected — surviving drop tests, javelin throws, and heavy leaning without cracks or serious damage. That said, carbon fiber will always be more vulnerable to snapping under extreme stress compared to aluminum.

Comfort is where you see the trade-off. The foam grips are fine for most hikes, but they don’t absorb shock or sweat as well as cork. The thin, net-pattern wrist straps are functional but lack the plush feel of padded designs. This stripped-down approach is intentional — everything here is about saving weight.

Key Specs:

• Weight (pair): 9.5 oz (without straps)
• Material: Carbon fiber shaft, foam grip
• Collapsed length: 19.5 in
• Approx. price: 170 USD

Pros:

• Ultralight — ideal for weight-conscious backpackers
• Innovative hybrid folding/telescoping design
• Surprisingly durable for carbon fiber
• Extremely quick and easy setup

Cons:

• Minimal comfort features
• Wrist straps less comfortable than padded options

Our take: For ultralight backpackers and gear junkies, the Durston Iceline is a standout. It’s not the most versatile or cushy pole on the market, but if weight is your top priority, it’s hard to beat.

3. Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ

If you want a trekking pole that’s light, compact, and lightning-fast to set up, the Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ is a serious contender. These poles fold down smaller than any other in our lineup — just 14.25 inches — making them perfect for ultralight backpackers, trail runners, or anyone with limited pack space.

We put them through their paces on a four-day, 50-mile loop in Arizona’s Superstition Mountains, where they faced rocky washes, overgrown trails, and miles of varied terrain. They impressed us with a level of durability that’s rare for carbon fiber poles, especially ones this thin. Compared to earlier versions, the new FLZ model feels more rigid, bends less under pressure, and survives off-trail abuse without cracking — though scratches are inevitable.

At 12 oz per pair, they’re among the lightest trekking poles available, and you can feel the difference whether they’re in your hands or strapped to your pack. The foam grips are comfortable enough for long days, though they have a slightly smaller diameter than most, which might feel less substantial for larger hands.

Setup is also a standout feature — with a bit of practice, you can have them ready in under ten seconds. The integrated strap adjuster, rubber tip covers, and two sets of baskets show that even an ultralight pole can have thoughtful touches. The trade-off? The price is steep, and with more moving parts than a telescoping pole, there’s a slightly higher chance of breakage in a bad fall.

Key Specs:

• Weight (pair): 12 oz
• Material: Carbon fiber shaft, foam grip
• Collapsed length: 14.25 in
• Approx. price: 220 USD

Pros:

• Packs down smaller than any other pole we tested
• Featherlight — great for running or long treks
• Quick folding setup
• Comes with two basket sets and tip covers

Cons:

• High price point
• Small grip diameter may not suit everyone

Our take: If compact size and minimal weight top your wish list, the Distance Carbon FLZ delivers. Just remember that it’s still carbon fiber — treat it with care, and it will reward you with years of ultralight adventures.

4. LEKI Black Series FX Carbon

If you’re after a folding carbon trekking pole that performs consistently well across the board, the LEKI Black Series FX Carbon deserves a close look. These poles score solid marks in durability, comfort, ease of use, and packability — even if they don’t have that one “wow” factor.

One of their standout qualities is durability. For a folding carbon fiber pole, they’re impressively tough, outperforming every other folding model we tested in stress tests. After being dropped on boulders and pushed to their bending limits, they showed only cosmetic scratches — no structural damage. They’re sturdy enough for regular hiking and travel without making you feel like you have to baby them.

At 1 lb per pair, they’re a bit heavier than other carbon poles, thanks in part to the cork grips and extended grip section. The extra ounces are justified, though — the long grip extension offers more hand positions for varying terrain, and the cork handles absorb sweat while providing a natural, comfortable feel. The wrist straps are basic and unpadded, but at least they don’t cause rubbing during long days.

Collapsed, they measure 16 inches, making them pack-friendly, though not the smallest folding poles available. They do take a bit of practice to set up smoothly, but once you get the hang of it, they’re quick and intuitive.

Key Specs:

• Weight (pair): 1 lb
• Material: Carbon fiber shaft, cork grip
• Collapsed length: 16 in
• Approx. price: 270 USD

Pros:

• Excellent durability for folding carbon poles
• Comfortable cork grips
• Useful extended grip section
• Packs down to a travel-friendly size

Cons:

• High price
• Slightly heavy for carbon fiber
• Requires some practice to set up quickly

Our take: The LEKI Black Series FX Carbon is like the reliable all-rounder in your gear closet — nothing flashy, but it does everything well. If you want folding poles that can handle real use without sacrificing comfort, these are a safe bet.

5. Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork

If you want carbon fiber trekking poles that can take a beating, the Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork is one of the most durable options you can buy. In testing, they held up against drops, stress tests, and rocky off-trail use — even catching our testers when they tripped — without snapping or bending noticeably. They do pick up cosmetic scratches, but structurally, they rival some of the toughest aluminum models we’ve tried.

At 1 lb 1.1 oz per pair, they’re not ultralight by carbon standards, and they even outweigh one of the aluminum poles in our lineup. That extra weight comes from features like cork grips, wide wrist straps, and a grip extension, all of which add comfort and versatility. The cork handles mold nicely to your hand, wick away sweat, and stay comfortable on long days. Just keep in mind that cork can attract wildlife (mice, goats, and other curious critters), so keep them inside your tent at night.

These poles come with summer baskets and replaceable carbide tips, though we wish they included extra baskets and flip-lock tensioners out of the box. The collapsed length is 24 inches, so they’re not the most compact option — better suited for day hikes or backpacking trips where you keep them in hand most of the day.

Key Specs:

• Weight (pair): 1 lb 1.1 oz
• Material: Carbon fiber shaft, cork grip
• Collapsed length: 24 in
• Approx. price: 230 USD

Pros:

• Exceptional durability for carbon fiber
• Comfortable cork grips and wide straps
• Grip extension for varied terrain
• Solid build for hiking and skiing

Cons:

• Heavier than most carbon poles
• Prone to cosmetic scratches
• Not very compact when collapsed

Our take: If your priority is a carbon fiber pole that won’t quit when the trail gets rough, the Alpine Carbon Cork delivers. It’s a little heavier and bulkier, but the comfort, grip options, and sheer toughness make it one of our go-to choices for serious hiking and backpacking.

6. MSR DynaLock Explore Backcountry Poles

When you’re climbing a 14er before sunrise, you want trekking poles that adjust quickly, handle steep ascents, and give you confidence on the way down. The MSR DynaLock Explore Backcountry Poles deliver on all counts. Built from full aluminum construction with high-strength 7075 aluminum lower sections, they’re tough enough for rocky descents yet light enough to carry all day.

The standout feature here is MSR’s DynaLock mechanism. With a quick flip, you can shorten the poles for uphill leverage or lengthen them for downhill stability. The lock is easy to fine-tune with a small tension wheel — no tools needed — and offers 40 cm of length adjustment. The EVA foam grips are comfortable, with an extended lower section for multiple hand placements, making them versatile for mixed terrain.

They collapse down to 24.5 in (62.2 cm), so they’ll fit inside deeper packs or attach externally. At 19 oz (0.55 kg) per pair, they’re not ultralight, but they strike a solid balance between weight and ruggedness. Plus, summer and winter baskets come included, making them a true year-round option.

Key Specs:

• Brand: MSR
• Material: 7075 aluminum
• Grip: EVA foam with extended lower grip
• Weight (pair): 19 oz (0.55 kg)
• Length range: 100-140 cm (39.5-55 in)
• Collapsed length: 62.2 cm (24.5 in)
• Color: Black
• Includes: Summer and winter baskets

Pros:

• Durable aluminum build
• Quick, secure DynaLock system with tool-free adjustment
• Comfortable EVA foam grips with extensions
• Year-round usability with two basket sets included

Cons:

• Heavier than carbon models
• Not the most compact three-section pole

Our take: For hikers who want reliable, no-fuss trekking poles that can handle steep climbs, rugged descents, and year-round conditions, the DynaLock Explore is a top contender.

7. Leki Makalu Cork Lite

If you want solid, dependable trekking poles without breaking the bank, the Leki Makalu Cork Lite is a smart pick. These aluminum poles aren’t flashy, but they check all the right boxes for hikers and backpackers who want comfort, durability, and ease of use in one package.

The cork handles do a great job absorbing sweat and staying comfortable over long days, while the flick-lock tension adjusters make quick length changes a breeze — no tools required. During our hikes around Durango, Colorado, we found them easy to deploy and collapse, with no fiddling required.

While they don’t excel in one standout category, they also have no glaring weaknesses. They’re tough enough for rough trails, light enough for everyday hikes, and priced fairly for what they offer. If you’re looking for one pair of poles to handle most situations, these deserve a serious look.

Key Specs:

• Brand: Leki
• Material: Aluminum
• Grip: Cork
• Weight (pair): 1 lb. 2 oz. (510 g)
• Length range: Adjustable, telescoping
• Collapsed length: 26 in (66 cm)
• Color: Varies by retailer
• Adjustments: Flick-lock with tension adjusters
• Includes: Standard trekking baskets

Pros:

• Great value for the price
• Very durable aluminum construction
• Comfortable cork grips
• Easy, tool-free lock adjustment

Cons:

• Longer collapsed length than folding poles
• A bit heavier than carbon models
• Wrist straps could be more padded

Our take: The Makalu Cork Lite is a reliable all-rounder — perfect for hikers who want a no-nonsense, long-lasting pole that works well on a wide range of trails.

8. Trekology Trek-Z 2.0

If you’re new to hiking or simply don’t want to spend a fortune on gear, the Trekology Trek-Z 2.0 is a budget-friendly way to get started. At just over fifty bucks, these aluminum trekking poles pack in a surprising amount of features — including winter baskets, two sets of tip covers, and an impressively compact collapsed size.

They fold down to just 15 inches and even come with a velcro wrap to keep them neatly bundled, which is great for travelers or anyone with a small pack. On the trail, they feel a bit heavier than pricier models, and setup isn’t as quick or intuitive, but considering the cost, that’s an easy trade-off for many hikers.

In our hikes through the San Juan National Forest, they handled rocky trails, unexpected snags, and even a few playful dog tugs without complaint. They’re not the lightest or most durable option out there, but for casual hikes and occasional trips, they’re a solid value pick.

Key Specs:

• Brand: Trekology
• Material: Aluminum
• Grip: Foam
• Weight (pair): 1 lb. 3 oz. (558 g)
• Collapsed length: 15 in (38 cm)
• Extended length: Adjustable
• Includes: Winter baskets and two sets of tip covers
• Color: Varies by seller

Pros:

• Very affordable price
• Includes winter baskets and extra tips
• Collapses to a short, travel-friendly size
• Good value for beginners

Cons:

• Heaviest in our lineup
• Not the easiest to set up
• Lacks cork grips or padded straps

Our take: The Trek-Z 2.0 is perfect for budget-conscious hikers who want an affordable pole with all the basics covered, even if it comes with a bit of extra weight.

9. Black Diamond Trail Back

If you want a trekking pole that’s durable, versatile, and budget-friendly, the Black Diamond Trail Back is an excellent pick. It’s a no-frills model that focuses on getting the job done rather than impressing with high-tech extras. While it’s a little heavier and doesn’t pack down as small as some others, its durability more than makes up for it — we’ve trusted it for everything from summer hikes to downhill skiing in Colorado.

The aluminum build handles impact exceptionally well, even on moguls and rocky trails. Paired with the included winter baskets, these poles are a year-round option for hikers, snowshoers, and casual skiers. They may not be ultralight, but they’re a tough, reliable companion for anyone who prioritizes sturdiness over shaving a few ounces.

Key Specs:

• Brand: Black Diamond
• Material: Aluminum
• Grip: Foam
• Weight (pair): 1 lb. 2.8 oz. (524 g)
• Collapsed length: 24 in (61 cm)
• Extended length: Adjustable
• Includes: Winter baskets
• Color: Varies by seller

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Very durable aluminum construction
• Works well year-round (winter baskets included)
• Versatile for hiking, snowshoeing, and skiing

Cons:

• Heavier than some alternatives
• Long collapsed length
• No cork grips for sweat absorption

Our take: The Trail Back is perfect for hikers on a budget who still want a rugged, all-season pole that can handle a beating without breaking the bank.

10. Gossamer Gear LT5

If weight is your number one priority, the Gossamer Gear LT5 trekking poles are hard to beat. At just 9.8 ounces per pair, they’re the lightest model in our lineup — perfect for thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers who want to save every possible ounce. The trade-off? Less durability compared to aluminum models, and fewer comfort features to keep the weight down.

Made from carbon fiber, the LT5s feel incredibly light in hand and on the trail. They use a twist-lock mechanism instead of flip-locks, which isn’t our favorite for quick adjustments but has held up surprisingly well over years of testing. The EVA foam grips are comfortable enough, but there’s no padding on the wrist straps.

In the field, they’ve performed better than expected, even on off-trail climbs in southern Arizona. Still, we wouldn’t recommend using them to break a fall or for extremely rugged terrain — treat them gently, and they’ll reward you with featherlight performance.

Key Specs:

• Brand: Gossamer Gear
• Material: Carbon Fiber
• Grip: EVA foam
• Weight (pair): 9.8 oz. (278 g)
• Collapsed length: 23.5 in (59.7 cm)
• Extended length: Adjustable
• Locking mechanism: Twist lock
• Color: Varies by seller

Pros:

• Ultralight design
• Comfortable EVA foam grips
• Very durable for the weight
• Replaceable sections

Cons:

• Pricey
• Twist locks are slower to adjust
• Not as durable as aluminum poles

Our take: The LT5s are the ultimate choice for weight-conscious hikers who want the lightest poles possible without sacrificing essential functionality.

For tips on dialing in the perfect pole height for your frame and terrain, see our guide on trekking pole height.

Side-by-Side Comparison – Best Trekking Poles of 2025

Not sure which trekking poles to choose? We’ve rounded up the top options of 2025 so you can quickly compare their weight, materials, packability, and price — plus the key pros and cons of each. Use this table to find the perfect pair for your adventures, whether you’re after ultralight minimalism, all-season durability, or budget-friendly reliability.

Product Name	Weight (pair)	Material	Collapsed Length	Price (approx.)	Pros	Cons
Black Diamond Pursuit	1 lb. 0.6 oz	Aluminum	25 in	$170	Durable, comfy cork grip	Long collapsed length
Leki Black Series FX Carbon	1 lb.	Carbon Fiber	16 in	$270	Strong carbon, compact, cork grip	Expensive, a bit heavy for carbon
Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork	1 lb. 1.1 oz	Carbon Fiber	24 in	$230	Very durable, comfy cork grip	Heavier carbon, longer collapsed length
MSR DynaLock Explore	1 lb. 4 oz	Aluminum	24.5 in	$140	Strong, easy-adjust lock	A bit heavy, longer collapsed size
Leki Makalu Cork Lite	1 lb. 2 oz	Aluminum	26 in	$150	Great value, cork grip	Heavy, long when collapsed
Trekology Trek-Z 2.0	1 lb. 3 oz	Aluminum	15 in	$56	Affordable, compact, extras included	Heavy, tricky setup
Black Diamond Trail Back	1 lb. 2.8 oz	Aluminum	24 in	$100	Durable, versatile, winter baskets	Heavy, long collapsed length
Gossamer Gear LT5	9.8 oz	Carbon Fiber	23.5 in	$195	Ultralight, comfy grip	Pricey, less durable
REI Co-op Flash Carbon	13.6 oz	Carbon Fiber	25 in	$159	Lightweight, cork grip	Not the most compact
Komperdell Carbon C3 Cloud	14 oz	Carbon Fiber	24 in	$239	Lightweight, great vibration dampening	Expensive, less rugged

Choosing the Right Trekking Poles for Your Adventures

Finding the perfect trekking poles isn’t about picking the fanciest or the most expensive pair – it’s about choosing the ones that fit your trails, your budget, and your hiking style. Whether you’re chasing ultralight carbon for fast ascents, sturdy aluminum for rugged terrain, or an affordable all-rounder for weekend hikes, there’s an option here that will suit you.

Take into account your priorities – weight, durability, comfort, and packability – and match them to how and where you hike most. With the right poles in hand, every climb feels steadier, every descent feels safer, and every step brings you closer to your next great adventure.

Now all that’s left is to hit the trail and put them to the test.