Trekking Poles

Q: Are trekking poles worth using?

Yes, trekking poles improve stability, balance, and endurance while reducing knee strain on hikes and descents.

Q: What’s better: aluminum or carbon fiber poles?

Aluminum poles are more durable and affordable, while carbon fiber poles are lighter and better suited for ultralight backpacking.

Q: Do trekking poles help with knee pain?

Yes, they reduce impact on knees by distributing weight evenly and providing stability on descents.

Q: How tall should trekking poles be?

Your elbows should form a 90-degree angle when holding the poles on flat ground; adjustable poles allow quick fine-tuning for any terrain.

Trekking Poles from The Outdoor Warehouse provide balance, stability, and endurance for every hike, climb, and backpacking trip. Whether you’re navigating steep terrain, crossing rivers, or carrying a heavy pack, the right trekking poles reduce joint strain and improve control on every step.

Shop carbon fiber, aluminum, and collapsible trekking poles from top brands — designed for comfort, durability, and adjustability. Ideal for hikers, trail runners, and backpackers looking to enhance stability and reduce fatigue over long distances.

Compare Popular Trekking Poles

Type	Material	Best For	Key Features	Top Brands
Adjustable Trekking Poles	Aluminum / Carbon Fiber	All-terrain hiking & backpacking	Telescoping design, locking mechanisms	Black Diamond, Leki
Folding Trekking Poles	Carbon / Aluminum	Trail running & lightweight travel	Compact 3-section design, quick setup	Black Diamond, Komperdell
Shock-Absorbing Poles	Aluminum	Long treks & joint support	Anti-shock system, ergonomic grips	MSR, Cascade Mountain Tech
Fixed-Length Poles	Carbon Fiber	Ultralight backpacking & stability	Rigid strength, minimal weight	Gossamer Gear, Leki

Pro Tip

Adjust your trekking poles so your elbows form a 90° angle when the tips touch the ground. Use wrist straps to support your hands on ascents, and lengthen the poles slightly for downhill sections to reduce knee pressure.

Choosing the Right Trekking Poles

When selecting trekking poles, consider your terrain and weight needs. Carbon fiber poles are ideal for ultralight backpacking and steep climbs, while aluminum poles provide more durability for rugged or rocky trails. Features like cork grips offer sweat resistance and comfort, while adjustable locks make setup quick and secure.

Don’t forget rubber tips, snow baskets, and replacement pole parts for year-round performance on varying terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are trekking poles worth using?

Yes — trekking poles improve stability, reduce joint strain, and increase endurance on long hikes. They’re especially useful on steep ascents, descents, and uneven trails.

What’s better: aluminum or carbon fiber poles?

Aluminum poles are more durable and affordable, while carbon fiber poles are lighter and better for ultralight backpacking or long-distance hiking.

Do trekking poles help with knee pain?

Yes, trekking poles reduce impact on knees by redistributing weight through your upper body, making descents easier and less fatiguing.

How tall should trekking poles be?

When holding your poles, your arms should form a 90° angle. Most adjustable poles cover this range; shorter hikers benefit from 100–120cm, taller hikers from 120–140cm.