Walking Pole Buying Guide

Walking Pole Buying Guide

Why choose walking poles

The anatomy of a walking pole

Shaft materials

Handle options

Locking mechanisms

Baskets & tips

Walking pole categories

Using walking poles

Walking pole picks

More guides

Why choose walking poles

Walking poles are more than just accessories; they can transform your hiking experience. By improving balance, reducing impact on joints, and increasing efficiency on both ascents and descents. The right pair of poles can help you go further with less fatigue. Here's what to look for when you are choosing a pair of walking poles.

Walking pole design and adjustability

Walking poles come in different designs, which affect how they pack, adjust, and perform. Choose based on how much adjustability you need and how important pack size is for your trips.

Image of Telescopic

Telescopic

Adjustable length using sliding sections. Versatile and easy to fine-tune for different terrain. Usually packs down to a medium size.

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Folding

Collapse into shorter sections using an internal cord. Very compact when packed, ideal for travel or fastpacking. Less adjustable than telescopic poles.

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Fixed length

Single, non-adjustable length. Lightweight and simple with fewer moving parts. Best if you know your exact sizing and don’t need to adjust on the go.

The anatomy of a walking pole

Wrist strap

Promo image for The anatomy of a walking pole

Shaft materials

Walking poles are typically made from either aluminium or carbon fibre. Each material offers different benefits depending on how and where you use your walking poles.

Aluminium Image

Aluminium

Strong and highly durable, making it ideal for rough terrain and regular use. More resistant to knocks and bending under pressure. Tends to flex rather than snap, which can be useful under heavy load. Slightly heavier than carbon fibre.

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Carbon

Very lightweight, reducing fatigue on longer walks or hikes. Stiffer than aluminium, which can improve efficiency and energy transfer. Absorbs vibrations well, helping reduce strain on hands and wrists. Less durable under impact and more likely to crack or snap if damaged.

Handle options

Image of Cork

Cork

Best for warm weather, wicks sweat, moulds to hand shape.

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Rubber

Insulates in cold but can cause blisters in heat.

Image of Foam

Foam

Comfortable, sweat-absorbing, and very light.

Locking mechanisms

Most walking poles come with one of two mechanisms:

Clamp Image

Clamp

Quick adjustments, easy with gloves.

Twist to lock Image

Twist to lock

Reliable but harder to adjust with gloves.

Baskets & tips

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Walking pole categories

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Multi-purpose

Tough aluminium poles for varied terrain.

Image of Shock absorbing

Shock absorbing

Built-in suspension to protect joints, ideal for descents or injuries.

Image of Alpine/lightweight

Alpine/lightweight

Carbon poles for endurance and challenging terrain.

Image of Compact/foldable

Compact/foldable

Packs down small for travel or stowing in a rucksack.

Using walking poles

How to use walking poles

Adjusting length: On flat ground: Elbow at a 90-degree angle.

  • Uphill: Shorten poles by 5–10 cm.

  • Downhill: Lengthen poles by 5–10 cm.



Wrist strap position: Hand up through the strap, handle resting in your grip.

Technique:

  • Flat ground: Poles angled slightly backwards, pushing you forward.

  • Uphill: Poles closer to the body for better leverage.

  • Downhill: Place poles slightly ahead to improve stability.

Walking pole picks

Final thoughts

The right walking poles can make hiking safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable. Consider your terrain, comfort preferences, and materials when choosing. For the best fit and feel, visit us in-store to try different models and get expert advice.

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