Guide: How to Choose Your Hiking Poles?

1. Construction

First and foremost, it's important to consider how the trekking pole is constructed. There are three types of poles: one-piece poles, 2-section poles, and 3-section poles.

One piece Poles

As shown in the image, one-piece poles are made of a single shaft (one tube) and have no locking system. In other words, they are neither adjustable nor foldable.

In general, one-piece poles, also known as fixed poles, are lighter, more durable, and less expensive. However, their inability to fold makes them impractical for activities like hiking. They are bulky and cannot be stored easily. For this reason, they are uncommon for trekking but are more often used for Nordic walking, skiing, or casual walks.

Summary:

• Advantages of one-piece poles:
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
• Disadvantages of one-piece poles:
  • Bulky (not foldable or adjustable)

Section Poles

Unlike one-piece poles, 2-section poles are made of two distinct tubes. The main advantage of this construction is the ability to reduce their size. You can adjust the pole length to match your height and fold them for easier storage.

However, these advantages come at the cost of two factors: 2-section poles are less durable and heavier than one-piece poles. The added weight primarily comes from the locking system or the sleeve connecting the sections. Despite this, 2-section poles are more suitable for hiking than one-piece poles.

Summary:

• Advantages of 2-section poles:
  • Compact
  • Adjustable length
• Disadvantages:
  • Heavier and less durable than one-piece poles

3 section poles

3-section poles are constructed in three parts and feature one or two locking systems that allow you to adjust the pole's length according to your height and fold it. The key advantage of this design is that they are highly compact. However, they are slightly less durable than 2-section poles.

For hiking, it’s recommended to opt for 2-section or 3-section poles. Depending on the terrain and situation, you may or may not need your trekking poles. Therefore, it’s important that they are compact for easier storage. Even though they are less durable than one-piece poles, they are still very sturdy. With proper care, they will accompany you on the trails of the most beautiful long-distance hikes for many years.

2. Storage system 

As we’ve seen, one-piece poles do not fold and therefore lack a storage system. This is not the case with multi-section poles, whose primary advantage is their ability to be easily stored in a backpack. For these poles, there are two types of storage systems.

Folding Poles

First, there are folding poles, which mostly apply to 3-section poles. These are often referred to as Z-fold poles (see photo).

These poles have two major advantages.

1. Compactness: When folded, they are the most compact on the market. This is particularly convenient when they’re not in use, as they take up minimal space in your backpack.
2. Ease of Deployment: Their deployment is extremely simple. With a single arm movement, they unfold. This is the case with Komperdell poles equipped with the FXP mechanism, as shown in the video below. There’s no need to adjust them between uses, saving valuable time. This makes these poles an excellent choice for hiking, fast walking, or trail running

Note: Most folding poles have an adjustable length, but not all of them do. Be sure to check carefully before purchasing.

Mécanisme FXP de Komperdell

Telescopic Poles

Secondly, there are telescopic poles. Most telescopic poles consist of three sections, though some models with two sections exist, but they are rarely used for hiking.

The sections slide into each other for storage, saving space. Two main locking systems are used to secure the sections.

1. Twist Lock
   The twist lock system, though less common today, involves simply twisting the sections together to secure them. While effective, this system is slightly less durable over time. The locking mechanism may become misaligned with prolonged use. However, twist locks generally offer better value for money compared to the second option.

2. Clip Lock
   The clip lock system uses a lever that opens to slide the sections to the desired length. This system is quick, precise, and long-lasting. It’s easy to operate, even in winter with gloves or mittens. However, clip locks are slightly heavier than twist locks. Rest assured, the difference is only a few grams.

Clip locks, commonly found on telescopic poles, can also be used on folding poles. Folding poles often feature a clip on the upper section to adjust their length.

Adjusting the Length

With clip locks, adjusting the length is quick and easy. For example:

• When ascending, it’s recommended to slightly shorten the poles from their usual length to reduce strain on your shoulders.
• Conversely, when descending, lengthen the poles to extend your reach and better anticipate the next step.

Note: You can also lend your poles to your adventure companion if they need them, unlike fixed poles, which come in a single size.

3. Materials

Each part of a trekking pole is made from a different material. Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of each.

The Shafts

The shaft forms the central structure of the pole, its main body. Some models are made of carbon, while others use aluminum. But which should you choose: aluminum or carbon?

• Aluminum Poles
  Aluminum poles are often made from 7075 aluminum (the lightest aluminum alloy). This material is more durable than carbon, especially in cold conditions or when subjected to impacts. They are highly resistant to breaking and are also more affordable than carbon poles.

• Carbon Poles
  Carbon poles are made entirely of carbon fiber or a composite of carbon fiber and fiberglass. In both cases, carbon poles are lighter than aluminum ones and absorb vibrations more effectively. These poles are becoming increasingly popular for hiking. However, they are less durable and more expensive than aluminum poles.

• Hybrid Poles
  Hybrid poles combine materials, such as two carbon sections and one aluminum section. For example, the lower section might be aluminum for added durability, while the upper sections are carbon for reduced weight. These models are relatively rare but aim to balance the strengths of both materials.

The Handles

Handles are made from three main materials, each with distinct properties:

• Cork Handles
  Cork is a natural material that feels pleasant against the skin. It is insulating, reducing sweat in hot weather, and its flexibility allows it to mold to the shape of your hands. It’s considered the most premium material. However, cork has some drawbacks: it is less durable, particularly when exposed to sweat acidity, and is more expensive than other materials.

• Rubber Handles
  Rubber handles are soft, durable, and provide excellent insulation against the cold. They are also the most affordable option. However, in hot weather, they can feel less comfortable as they do not absorb sweat.

• Foam Handles
  Foam handles offer the best value for money. They effectively absorb sweat and have a comfortable texture, especially for long distances. Like cork, foam is less durable than rubber.

Handle Shapes

Handles come in two main shapes: those with finger grooves and smooth handles.

• Handles with Finger Grooves: These provide better grip and are generally more comfortable. They are also the most commonly used.
• Smooth Handles: These are simpler in design and preferred by some hikers for their versatility.

Note: Many trekking pole models feature an extended handle. This allows for easier handling on steep terrain without needing to store them in your backpack

5. Summary

As you’ve seen throughout this buying guide, trekking poles all serve the same basic purpose. What influences their price are factors like weight, compactness, and durability.

So, which poles should you choose for hiking?

• Construction:
  We recommend opting for 3-section poles. While they may be slightly heavier than one-piece or 2-section poles, the difference is just a few grams. Overall, 3-section poles are far more versatile thanks to their compactness, making them easier to store in your backpack.

• Storage System:
  Folding poles compete with telescopic poles, and both are widely used in trekking. Recently, Z-fold poles have become increasingly popular. They are more compact, deploy very quickly, and don’t require length adjustments to match your height every time you use them—a significant time and space saver!

• Aluminum or Carbon:
  If you’re looking for durable poles, aluminum is the better choice. It’s also more affordable. However, if you prefer ultra-lightweight gear, carbon poles will help you save precious grams while also absorbing vibrations more effectively. The choice is yours—there’s no definitive “best” option!

• Accessories:
  Accessories are designed to enhance your comfort.

  • Anti-shock systems add weight and are generally unnecessary unless you have sensitive joints.
  • For baskets, wide ones are recommended for winter, while smaller ones are better for summer.
  • Tip protectors are essential, at least to prevent injury or damage to your gear when storing your poles.
  • For straps, choose padded ones for long-distance hikes (like the GR20 or Stevenson Trail). The added comfort is worth the slight increase in weight.

You’re now ready to gear up with trekking poles.