Hiking poles

Providing security, trekking poles also help you move faster and perform better. Discover our selection of walking, trekking and trail poles from leading brands, designed to support you on every path.

Choosing the right trekking pole for your environment and activity

Carefully selected according to your level and walking habits, a trekking pole quickly becomes an essential part of your kit. Whether it's a day hike on marked trails, a multi-day trek with a heavy pack, or technical sections in the hills, each activity calls for a pole designed for its specific demands. A versatile model is ideal for occasional hikers, while regular users on steep terrain will prefer more specialised poles, adapted for slopes and crossings. Fans of trail running or nordic walking will find dedicated, lighter ranges built for speed.

The benefits of trekking poles

Once seen as the preserve of seasoned walkers, poles have become an essential accessory for hikers of all levels. Their advantages are both biomechanical and safety-related:

• They help you overcome obstacles.
• They reduce strain on joints, especially the knees.
• They keep you stable and balanced, whatever the terrain.
• They boost speed and performance.
• Above all, they are a safety accessory that can save your life by testing the strength of a wooden bridge or the depth of snow.
• On rough ground, they improve uphill propulsion and absorb impacts on descents, especially when anti-shock technology is built into the handle.

How to choose your trekking poles

Before choosing a specific model, consider your actual use: how often do you go, on what terrain, and with what load? Your answers will guide your criteria. For intensive use on long treks or demanding mountain routes, opt for a robust build with thick sections, a reliable locking system such as Black Diamond's patented FlickLock, and tungsten tips for grip on the hardest surfaces. Hikers focused on weight will prefer high-modulus carbon, while 7075 aluminium alloy remains a safe bet for those seeking a balance between strength and budget.

The different types of trekking poles

Trekking poles are first chosen by their length and adjustment system, then by weight, which varies with the material. Next comes the number of sections and the ability to fold and stow them quickly in your backpack. The quality of accessories is also key: ergonomic cork, foam or EVA grips, comfortable straps, and tungsten tips that make all the difference on wet rock and icy patches.

Carbon vs aluminium poles

Carbon stands out for its remarkable lightness and ability to absorb vibrations, making it a valuable ally on long distances and fast outings where every gram counts. Aluminium, meanwhile, is favoured by those who value durability: it absorbs shocks, bends rather than breaks, and is better suited to technical terrain where poles are heavily used. Each material has its ideal use.

Folding and telescopic poles

There are two main types on the market. Telescopic models, with 2 or 3 sliding sections, offer continuously adjustable length and adapt in seconds to changes in slope. Folding poles break down into 3 or 4 sections like a tent pole, offering minimal bulk-ideal for hikers who attach their poles to their pack during pole-free sections. For everyday versatility, telescopic poles remain the most comfortable companion.

Popular trekking pole brands

Our selection brings together brands renowned for their expertise and commitment to the mountain world. Guidetti, a French manufacturer rooted in the Alps, has cultivated artisanal know-how for decades, appealing to hikers who value locally made products, with carefully finished and proven poles. In a different style, Black Diamond represents the North American school of technical poles: the Colorado brand has become a benchmark thanks to its FlickLock system, now widely imitated, and its Trail, Pursuit and Trail Vista Shock ranges covering everything from family walks to high mountain adventures. TSL Outdoor offers a premium French alternative with poles like the Tour C5 Cross, designed for trekking and light mountaineering, known for their ergonomic design. Finally, no discussion of walking poles would be complete without mentioning Leki, the German brand whose expertise shines on trails and slopes alike, with patented innovations such as the Vario quick-lock system.

Tips for maintaining your trekking poles

Cleaning and storage

Well-maintained poles last for years, provided you follow a few simple steps after each outing. Rinse the sections with clean water to remove mud, dust and salt residues, which are especially harsh on locking systems. Dismantle the sections before letting them air dry completely: residual moisture is the main cause of internal sticking. Store your poles away from heat, slightly extended, to avoid stressing the locking mechanisms over time.

Repairs and spare parts

Leading brands generally offer a wide range of accessories and spare parts, allowing you to repair rather than replace: tungsten tips, summer and snow baskets, straps, complete locking systems. Replacing a worn tip or cracked basket significantly extends the life of your poles, supporting a sustainable approach that benefits both your budget and the mountains.

FAQ about trekking poles

What length should my trekking poles be?

The general rule is that your forearm should form a 90° angle when holding the pole vertically with the tip on the ground. For a numerical guide, multiply your height in centimetres by 0.68. This gives the reference length for flat ground, which you can then adjust for the terrain:

• Uphill: shorten by 5 to 10 cm for better propulsion
• Downhill: lengthen by the same amount to better absorb knee impacts
• On slopes: adjust each pole independently to match the incline

How do I adjust the height of my poles?

On a telescopic pole, loosen the locking system-whether it's a twist or FlickLock clip-then set the desired length using the printed graduations on the section. Tighten firmly, but don't force it. A “STOP” mark is always shown on the lower section: never go past it, as this could weaken the pole. Accurate adjustment is the best way to prevent shoulder tendonitis and lower back pain on long outings.

What accessories are compatible with trekking poles?

Modern poles are highly modular, accepting a wide range of interchangeable accessories for different seasons and terrains:

• Summer baskets for dry, rocky trails
• Snow baskets, wider, for winter outings and snowshoeing
• Rubber tips for tarmac and rocky slabs
• Replacement straps and tungsten tips to extend lifespan

Most of these items are compatible across brands, but always check the diameter and thread before buying. For more advice and to refine your choice, see our selection of the best trekking poles for your outings on the Snowleader blog. Our team is also available via live chat and our detailed FAQ for personalised advice.