Trekking poles or hiking poles are an extremely useful accessory to have, especially for longer hikes or trails that involve rough or uneven terrain. They can help you to maintain your balance and they also help to take some of the weight and pressure off of your joints (this is ideal if you have knee problems).
Even though they are usual, you may not want to spend the money on some of the more expensive models. Maybe you just want to try out some budget trekking poles for a while to make sure you like them before investing in a more expensive set, or maybe you just want to get a set that’s reasonably-priced to avoid unnecessary expense. Whatever the case may be, we’ve reviewed and ranked the best options.
Table of Contents
Best Budget Trekking Poles
1. Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
This Foxelli pole is designed to provide aid to individuals in need of support while hiking. They’re perfect for backing trips, camping adventures, and long hikes. The aluminum material used in making the pole qualifies it to be useful in supporting large weights and walking on rocky terrains.
The pole has a moisture-wicking ergonomic cork handle that improves the grip of the user, which makes it an ideal pole to have when hiking in rough terrain. The trekking poles are not just effective in helping you achieve balance, but they do this without neglecting your comfort.
Key features
- The hiking sticks are collapsible and extendable
- The dimensions of the product are 2 x 2 x 25 inches
- It has an extended length of 55 inches
- The material is made of 100% carbon fiber
- Each pole weighs 7.6 oz.
- It has flipping locks
- It features carbide tips
- It has cork grips
Check the current price of the Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
2. Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles
The Cascade Mountain Tech is a great pole for anyone who wants quality trekking poles at a great price. The manufacturers made this pole from 3k carbon fiber, which makes them super durable and exceptionally lightweight. Also, the poles are equipped with tungsten carbide tips that help to aid mobility in special terrain and ice. It also features baskets for moving in a snowy environment and rubber caps for general hiking. You can easily alter the pole size between 26 and 54 inches. Thus, the pole fits well for people of different weights and heights.
Key features
- It has an extended length of 54 inches
- It is made of carbon fiber
- The dimensions of the product are 26 x 0.5 x 0.5 inches
- It weighs 1.53 pounds
- It features an easy to use quick lock
- It has a comfortable cork grip
Check the current price of the Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles
3. TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
The TrailBuddy Trekking poles should be your best choice if you want a pole that can withstand most terrains and can be adjusted without sacrificing its durability. Outdoor enthusiasts will definitely love using these poles as they are well tailored for any encounter that they may experience while hiking. The cork handles are incredibly comfortable for both cold and hot temperatures. It also comes in an array of colors for users to select from.
Key features
- The package has dimensions of 25.3 x 4.5 x 2.8 inches
- The item weighs 1.6 pounds
- It has padded straps to prevent chafing on hands
- The shaft is made from aluminum
- It has an extended length of 54 inches
Check the current price of the TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
4. Foxelli Aluminum Trekking Poles
Searching for a pole that’s fit for everyone in the family? The Foxelli Aluminum pole is a good option for you. It reduces the impact of hiking and trekking on the joints and also helps to alleviate any weight you’re carrying. It also helps to burn calories while you’re hiking or walking
It has quick-lock technology that allows users to easily and quickly adjust the poles according to height so as to guarantee maximum comfort. The pole is retractable from 24” to 55”—this makes it one of the most compact and versatile in its class,
Key features
- The hiking poles are made from Ultralight Aluminum 7075 material
- It weighs 9.4 oz
- It features Quick Lock Technology to make it easy to adjust
- It has anti-slip natural cork grips
- The tip is made of tungsten carbide
- The internal diameter is 5/18 inches
Check the current price of the Foxelli Aluminum Trekking Poles
5. Hiker Hunger 100% Carbon Fiber Trekking Pole
This pole is one that’s built with 100% carbon fiber and it’s designed to last. The pole is definitely one of the strongest and lightest poles that are currently sold in the market right now.
The hiking poles are not just strong, but they are also durable to guarantee you a maximum user experience. These poles are adjustable, so they are good for adults and children of all sizes. The poles can be extended up to 54 inches. The flip lock is tightened with metal screws that won’t fall during use.
Key features
- It is made with Carbon fiber
- It has an extended length of 54 inches
- It has a tungsten carbide tip
- The poles are extendable from 24 inches to 54 inches
- The trekking pole weighs 1.5 pounds
- The dimensions of the product are 5.98 x 2.01 x 25.51 inches
- It has cork handles
Check the current price of the Hiker Hunger 100% Carbon Fiber Trekking Pole
6. Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles
Looking for a durable trekking pole for a great price? If that fits into what you want, then this might be a good choice for you. This pair of adjustable trekking poles were made from 3K fiber, and that makes it very durable and lightweight for kids to carry. Also, each pair of poles features a tungsten carbide tip that makes it suitable for use on ice and other difficult terrains. It also has rubber caps for hiking, basket, and mud for moving in snow. You can easily adjust the pole’s size between 26 and 54 inches. Thus, they are a perfect fit for you whether you’re tall, short, or of an average height. They are useful for hiking uphill, on flat terrain, and downhill.
Key features
- The dimensions of the product are 26 x 0.5 x 0.5 inches
- The product weighs 1.53 pounds
- It is made from 3k carbon fiber
- It is extendable
- It has rubber caps for general hiking
- It features a tungsten carbide tip that makes it suitable for all terrains
- It features an upgraded basket and mud for smooth movement on mud and basket.
Check the current price of the Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles
7. ayamaya Trekking Poles for Hiking
This is a very ergonomic pole that will help you maintain your balance in all terrains. The poles are made from 100% carbon fiber, and that makes them ultra-light enough to carry in tough terrains. It has sturdy locks that help to keep the users balanced when walking through a slippery surface.
Key features
- It is made with 100% carbon fiber
- It can be extended from 25 inches to 53 inches.
- It features strong tungsten tips
- It has a quick lock system
- It weighs 7.4 oz
Check the current price of the ayamaya Trekking Poles for Hiking
8. Paria Outdoor Products Tri-Fold Carbon Cork Trekking Poles/Sticks
This is a compact pole that is portable enough to carry anywhere you desire. The designs on the pole are very unique, and users can fold them to only 15 inches in length, which is less than most poles will allow. You can easily fit them into your day pack and your carry-on luggage. Each pole weighs a mere 9 oz, which can help to reduce fatigue.
The manufacturers created the shaft with carbon fiber that’s reinforced with 7000-series aluminum at its connector point to guarantee its longevity. This pole won’t let you down as its cork handle effectively absorbs sweat so that users can stay comfortable throughout the day. The flick-lock mechanism allows you to change the length in just a few seconds.
Key features
- Each pair weighs 18 oz.
- The dimensions of the package are 14.2 x 4.9 x 1.9 inches
- It has real cork handles
- It has a carbide tungsten tip that’s replaceable
Check the current price of the Paria Outdoor Products Tri-Fold Carbon Cork Trekking Poles/Sticks
9. York Nordic Shorter Length Travel Walking Poles
York Nordic Walking Poles are excellently built Nordic poles that aid stability while hiking, traveling, or engaging in classic Nordic walking. This pair of poles can easily be collapsed to fit in a carry-on bag. It has detachable snow baskets and feet that can be replaced when you deem fit.
Key features
- It has an extended length of 43 inches
- It has high-quality aircraft 7075 aluminum with a tip made of tungsten.
- It features detachable rubber feat
- It has snow baskets
- It is made of 100% carbon fiber
- The item weighs 8 ounces
Check the current price of the York Nordic Shorter Length Travel Walking Poles
Aluminum Poles vs. Carbon Fiber Poles
Aluminum poles are a good option for individuals that are on a budget but still want poles that are reliable. However, if money is not a problem and you prefer poles that are ultra-light, you should consider buying a pair of carbon fiber poles. Although carbon fiber is generally more resistant than poles made of aluminum, they’re lighter and are way more comfortable than poles made of aluminum. But this might also differ since the exact capacity of a pole depends on the manufacturer.
Grips: Cork vs Foam vs. Rubber
These are the three most popular trekking pole grips that are available, as such, the pole grips you buy will likely have one of these. Of the three, cork grips the most comfortable. It is also waterproof and it provides a small degree of cushion. However, a major downside with them is that they’ll eventually crack/chip.
Foam grips on the other are last long, but they’re not as comfortable to hold for a prolonged period because they absorb plenty of moisture. Rubber grips on the other hand are very uncomfortable and they cause blisters, however, they come cheap.
Choosing the Right Poles
Trekking poles can be a highly beneficial addition to your hiking kit. If you’d like to give one a try, there are the factors to consider.
Pole Design
You’ll have to make a choice between telescoping or collapsible poles.
In telescoping, a section of the pole slides out of another section and it locks itself into place. In folding poles, on the other hand, the section slides out of its shaft and folds.
In general, folding poles are usually more compact, and they can be shortened to as much as 10 inches more than their telescoping counterpart.
Durability
As for durability, folding poles are considered to be less durable than telescoping poles.
Materials
The shaft of trekking poles is made from carbon fiber, aluminum, or a combination of the two. Generally, poles with aluminum shafts are heavier but more durable than carbon, and carbon shaft is lighter and could possibly shatter unexpectedly.
Price
It is more expensive to purchase a lightweight carbon pole than an aluminum pole. Price can also increase if padded wrist straps, interchangeable baskets, and tips are added.
