Walking Poles Buying Guide

Walking poles are lightweight support poles used to improve balance, reduce strain on the legs, and make walking feel easier on uneven or hilly terrain. They are not just for steep mountains. They help spread effort more evenly, improve stability on rough ground, and make long walks feel less taxing on the knees and legs.

On descents, they take some of the strain off your joints, and on climbs, they help you drive forward more efficiently. For anyone carrying a pack, covering mixed terrain, or simply wanting more confidence on the move, hiking poles can make a bigger difference than many people expect. They are one of those bits of kit that seem optional...until you use them properly!

What to look for in a pole:

• Weight: As light as possible, ideally under 500g.
• Aluminium or carbon fibre? Aluminium is stronger and more durable; carbon fibre is lighter.
• Z-shaped or telescopic? Z-shaped poles fold down smaller, making them better for backpacks and hand-luggage-only travel. Either way, look for adjustability if you want more versatility.
• Twist-lock or speedlock? You should be able to adjust or fold away your poles with minimum fuss. Try different mechanisms to find the one that feels easiest to use.
• Hand grip: Foam, rubber, or cork? Make sure the handle feels comfortable, fits your hand well, and stays secure in sweaty or gloved palms.
• Wrist straps? Look for adjustable, supportive straps that take pressure off your hands and transfer it to your wrists.
• Shock absorption: Worth considering if you suffer from knee or hand pain, or if you do a lot of descents

Walking poles redistribute 15-20% of body weight from your legs to your upper body, reducing knee impact during descents. A 2023 University of Colorado study found hikers using poles experienced 33% less muscle soreness post-trek compared to non-users.

Shaft material affects weight, feel, and durability. Aluminium poles are usually stronger, more affordable, and a little more forgiving if they are knocked or bent. Carbon poles are lighter and better at reducing vibration, which can be useful on long days or if you want to save weight in your pack.

A lot of buyers assume lighter is always better, but that is not always true. Carbon is excellent when low weight matters, but aluminium often makes more sense for durability and value. If you use poles often and in rough terrain, strength may matter more than shaving off a few grams.

The easiest rule is still the classic one: when you hold the grip and place the tip on the ground, your elbow should be around 90 degrees. That gives you a good starting point for flat ground and general walking.

From there, you can shorten the poles for climbs and lengthen them for descents. That adjustability is one of the biggest reasons to choose telescopic poles over fixed-length models, especially if you walk varied terrain.

The grip is where comfort really starts. Cork grips are popular because they mould to the hand over time and manage moisture well, especially on longer walks. EVA foam grips are lighter and comfortable, while rubber grips are durable and offer a secure hold.

Wrist straps matter too. They help transfer some of the load from your hand to your wrist, which can reduce fatigue over time. A well-shaped, padded strap is much more comfortable than a thin one, especially when you are using poles for long stretches or wearing gloves.

How the pole locks may seem like a small detail, but it has a big impact on ease of use. Flip-lock systems are usually the most practical choice if you want fast, hassle-free adjustment on the hill. Twist-lock systems offer a cleaner look and can still work well, but they tend to need a little more care.

• Flip-lock systems: easy to adjust, quick to use, and simple to operate with cold hands or gloves.
• Twist-lock systems: sleeker in appearance, but can be slower to adjust and may loosen if not maintained properly.

The tip is what connects the pole to the ground, so it needs to suit the terrain. Carbide tips are excellent on rocky paths because they grip better and last longer than standard steel. Rubber tip protectors are useful for roads and pavements because they reduce noise and wear. In soft ground or snow, larger baskets help stop the pole from sinking too deeply.

This is where terrain really matters. A pole that works brilliantly on a mountain path may feel wrong on hard pavement or loose snow. The best kits are the ones that match the places you actually walk.

Learn more about Walking Poles with a in-store demonstration from our expert Natalya from Cotswold Outdoor Horsham:

Poles work best when you adjust them to match the slope. On climbs, shorten them slightly so you can push down more naturally without raising your shoulders or overreaching. This gives you better leverage and lets you drive forward with a smoother, more efficient motion.

On descents, lengthen the poles a little so they help absorb some of the impact and give you extra stability. This can reduce pressure on your knees and make steep downhill sections feel more controlled. The key is to avoid keeping the same length for every situation, because a small change can make a big difference in comfort.

The pole should feel like an extension of your movement, not something you are gripping too tightly. Once you get used to adjusting them on the move, you will find they help you keep a better rhythm and a more confident stance on both climbs and descents.

• Clean after use → Especially after muddy or sandy walks. Wipe down shafts and remove grit from locking mechanisms.
• Dry thoroughly → Prevents corrosion and keeps grips fresh.
• Check for wear → Replace tips when worn, inspect baskets and locks regularly.
• Store correctly → Collapse poles, loosen locks, and store in a dry place.

The best hiking pole is the one that suits your terrain, your pace, and how much support you actually want. Once you understand the differences in material, locking system, grip, and length, the choice becomes much simpler; and your walks often feel more stable, efficient, and comfortable.