Quick answer: you don’t need to spend a lot to get reliable trekking poles. Under $50, look for aluminium (7075 or 6061) shafts, external lever locks rather than twist locks, cork or foam grips, and a collapsed length that fits on your pack. Carbon poles at this price are usually less durable than good aluminium ones.
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Why use trekking poles?
- They take load off your knees on descents, which many hikers notice most on long downhill sections.
- They add balance on river crossings, scree, snow and mud.
- They help set a steady rhythm on climbs by bringing your arms into play.
- Many ultralight tents use trekking poles instead of tent poles.
What to look for
| Feature | What to choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Shaft material | Aluminium at this price | Bends instead of snapping; tougher than cheap carbon |
| Locks | External lever (flick) locks | Easier to adjust and less likely to slip than twist locks |
| Grip | Cork or EVA foam | Cork moulds to your hand and handles sweat; foam is light and soft |
| Grip extension | Foam below the grip | Lets you choke down on short climbs without adjusting |
| Tips | Carbide tips plus rubber covers | Grip on rock; covers protect pavement and gear |
| Baskets | Small trekking baskets; snow baskets for winter | Stop the pole sinking in mud or snow |
| Weight | Around 450–550 g per pair | Light enough for all-day use |
How to size trekking poles
On flat ground, hold the pole with the tip next to your foot: your elbow should be bent at about 90 degrees. Shorten poles by 5–10 cm for climbs and lengthen them for descents. Adjustable poles cover most heights; fixed-length folding poles must be bought in the right size.
Our picks
| 1 | Top PickCascade Mountain Tech Aluminum Trekking PolesBest overall budget pick | |
| 2 | TrailBuddy Trekking PolesLightweight day hikes | |
| 3 | Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking PolesLowest weight on a budget | |
| 4 | Montem Ultra Strong Trekking PolesHeavier hikers and rough terrain | |
| 5 | Black Diamond Trail Trekking PolesWorth stretching the budget |
Notes on our picks
- Cascade Mountain Tech Aluminum Trekking Poles: Long-time Amazon favourite with lever locks, cork grips and accessories included. Great value.
- TrailBuddy Trekking Poles: Light aircraft-grade aluminium poles with lever locks and EVA foam grips.
- Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles: Light carbon shafts with cork grips; treat them carefully in rocky terrain.
- Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles: Sturdy aluminium build with flip locks; a good choice if durability matters most.
- Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles: A proven pole from a leading brand; often on sale near the $50–70 mark.
Using poles well
- Put your hands up through the straps from below, then grip so the strap supports your wrist.
- Plant poles slightly ahead on climbs and slightly in front on descents.
- On narrow or exposed sections, stow poles so your hands are free.
- Dry poles fully and extend them to dry the inside after wet hikes.
Frequently asked questions
Are cheap trekking poles worth it?
Yes. Many budget aluminium poles are reliable. Avoid poles with flimsy twist locks or vague weight claims.
Aluminium or carbon trekking poles?
Aluminium is tougher and cheaper. Carbon is lighter but can snap under sideways force.
Should I use one pole or two?
Two give better balance and knee relief; one works for easy trails or if you want a hand free.
Keep reading
Hi, I am Emam Hasan — founder and editor of BrokeMountain. I oversee this blog’s hiking, camping and outdoor gear guides, making sure every article is well-researched, accurate and genuinely helpful for your time on the trail. Enjoy it!
