View Full Version : Trekking Poles Recommendations?
TheWhiteWalker
03-16-2016, 00:07
Does anyone recommend a certain brand/type/ or model of trekking poles for a thru hike on the AT?
I figured trekking poles would all be very similar but REI's website has it broken down by Grip Material, Shaft Material, Locking Mechanism, Weight, etc. I just want to make sure there is not a certain material that works much better for a thru hike.
I would feel better purchasing a pair that someone recommends/tested as opposed to me blindly picking out a pair at REI and hoping for the best. Thanks!
I doubt that trekking poles, hiking sticks, etc. have to be thru-hike specific.
I'm a fan of Komperdell hiking poles. I've owned a pair of aluminum 3 section poles with the dreaded twist lock system. Love them.
Last week I received a new pair of Komperdell Expedition Vario Carbon sticks. Totally awesome! A single flip lock. Minimum extension fits me perfect. More than enough height for TarpTent support. 4-5 ounces lighter than my old pair. Love them!
Can't help on the thru-hike thing. None of my hiking sticks, including the bamboo DIY stick I made eons ago, are labeled "Thru-Hike Ready."
Wayne
soumodeler
03-16-2016, 08:32
I used cheaper REI poles for years and they worked fine. Only thing I ever complained about was the rubber grips got nasty sticky and wet as I hiked from sweat. They were also near vertical grips. I tried a pair of Leki CorkLites with the cork grip, soft strap, and forward tilted grip and immediately switched. So much more comfortable. Also, it had the new flip locks vs the old twist locks, making it easier to collapse and extend.
So I would say it is more about what you like than anything else, as any stick (including a mop handle - Jennifer Pharr Davis thru hiked with one) will work.
Rocket Jones
03-16-2016, 08:40
I love my Pacer Poles (http://www.pacerpole.com/). The only improvement I would wish for is flick locks instead of twist locks. Really though, most any pole will do, and like mentioned by Soumodeler, I used a broom handle from the hardware store for years. I just wrapped it with paracord to make a grip.
orthofingers
03-16-2016, 08:42
I've heard many say that Black Diamond is not very helpful with warranty/repair/replacement issues whereas, Lekki will bend over backwards for their customers.
nsherry61
03-16-2016, 11:22
I've heard many say that Black Diamond is not very helpful with warranty/repair/replacement issues whereas, Lekki will bend over backwards for their customers.
My personal experience has been exemplary with both companies!
HooKooDooKu
03-16-2016, 11:29
I would say go for the cheapest that has the features you're looking for.
Sierra Trading Post (http://www.sierratradingpost.com/trekking-poles-and-walking-sticks~d~240/) has a pretty large selection of poles available.
If you're willing to wait a few days for the right coupon to come along, you should be able to find a code at Retailmenot (http://www.retailmenot.com/view/sierratradingpost.com) that would take at least an additional 25% off and free shipping (look for a free or reduced shipping coupon, regular shipping from STP is outrageous).
Auto Draft
03-16-2016, 11:33
I think cork grips are the most important decision. Cork grips worked great for me.
Puddlefish
03-16-2016, 11:33
http://www.amazon.com/Cascade-Mountain-Tech-Carbon-Trekking/dp/B00EJP43FA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458142294&sr=8-1&keywords=cascade+trekking+poles
14.2 oz without the baskets for the pair.
My first pair of trekking poles were Lekis, they lasted about 13 years and I finally retired them last year -- the bottom section of one pole got bent and I was unable to straighten it properly.
I replaced them with a pair of mid-range Black Diamond poles from REI. About $70 or so as I recall. The new ones have flip locks. So far so good.
I vote for Lekis, particularly if you're going to be putting a significant amount of your weight on them... they lock tight. I did not have good service from BD, and I find that the Komperdells don't lock as tightly as Lekis and are prone to slip.
I take it back... I had terrible service from BD.
nsherry61
03-16-2016, 12:19
I personally like the foam grips. The rubber is too hard for my comfort and the cork is heavier and gets old and slimy and stinky and falls apart more readily than the foam.
I like the shorter tips on the Leki (or BD Distance Z-poles for that matter) better than the longer tips on the regular BD poles that get stuck in the mud significantly more.
http://www.amazon.com/Cascade-Mountain-Tech-Carbon-Trekking/dp/B00EJP43FA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458142294&sr=8-1&keywords=cascade+trekking+poles
14.2 oz without the baskets for the pair.
PLUS ONE (+1) on these I have had them for a few years now and LOVE them, Flick lock over twist lock whatever poles you choose.
lonehiker
03-16-2016, 13:22
Features I prefer: collapsible, flip-lock, swappable baskets. I think the shock absorbing ones are total gimmick. Have had equal success with foam and cork handles but probably prefer cork because of the feel. Have used Komperdell and Black Diamond. First pair did not have angled handles and worked fine. Second set had angled handles and worked fine. So that feature is a wash for me.
In 08 I heard of a lot of people that were returning their Leki's for repair/replacement. Guess I would rather buy a product that I never have to know how good their warranty policy is...
Only advice I would give is that if you go with trekking poles at least be cognizant of how to use the wrist straps properly.
soumodeler
03-16-2016, 13:26
Only advice I would give is that if you go with trekking poles at least be cognizant of how to use the wrist straps properly.
This is the best advice on this tread. I see so many people not using the straps correctly (or at all) and then saying that trekking poles don't really do anything for them.
DuneElliot
03-16-2016, 13:39
PLUS ONE (+1) on these I have had them for a few years now and LOVE them, Flick lock over twist lock whatever poles you choose.
I also have these. For the price you can't beat them.
Pacer Poles are the most comfortable to use and most efficient at transferring arm motion to forward motion. If you don't go with them, then I agree with the others, it doesn't make much difference.
Been using Pacer Poles for 11 or 12 years now (maybe more) and will never buy anything but. Only problems were worn out tips and a bent pole section after I stepped on it. Both times the manufacturer sent the replacement parts very quickly and at very low cost, even including a gift of 6 sets of rubber tips at no extra charge.
Also, no need to learn how to use wrist straps with Pacer Poles - they are not necessary. The only purpose for the wrist tether is for your convenience.
soumodeler
03-16-2016, 14:21
Also, no need to learn how to use wrist straps - they are not necessary. The only purpose for the wrist tether is for your convenience.
The wrist straps are there for more than just convenience. They allow a better transfer of force than using your grip alone and greatly reduces fatigue from gripping the pole. What is going to get tired first: your hand or a piece of cloth?
The wrist straps are there for more than just convenience. They allow a better transfer of force than using your grip alone and greatly reduces fatigue from gripping the pole. What is going to get tired first: your hand or a piece of cloth?
Not on PacerPoles. You should check them out - they have a very unique grip that is MUCH easier and more comfortable to use, and which makes wrist straps unnecessary.
I have used everything from a sapling picked up in the woods to Komperdelle poles (REI) to LEKI and now PacerPoles. PacerPoles win.
Great White Buffalo
03-16-2016, 14:40
Pace Maker Stix makes some pretty good poles that aren't nearly as expensive as BD or Leki. I've been using a pair for a few years now and they are still holding up. Haven't done anything near as long as a thru hike, and i made my own for my flip flop this year. Their most expensive model only runs for $55 and weigh only 6.5 ounces each (according to their website). They are also on Amazon, and i haven't read a bad review on them yet.
soumodeler
03-16-2016, 14:41
Not on PacerPoles. You should check them out - they have a very unique grip that is MUCH easier and more comfortable to use, and which makes wrist straps unnecessary.
I have used everything from a sapling picked up in the woods to Komperdelle poles (REI) to LEKI and now PacerPoles. PacerPoles win.
I read that to mean straps on non PacerPoles. I agree with the straps not needed on PacerPoles.
I read that to mean straps on non PacerPoles. I agree with the straps not needed on PacerPoles.
No problem. I re-read my post and saw how you could misunderstand my intent. I corrected it to be more clear.
Black Diamond had last years model of Alpine Carbon Corks on sale for over 30% off. Haven't used them yet but pretty highly recommended on every site I looked at.
I started out with a different pair but got my Leki poles in Fontana. They are working great!
Hope this helps!
Another Kevin
04-01-2016, 17:40
My personal preference:
Grip material: Cork. Foam grips chafe my sweaty hands.
Shaft material: Aluminium. I just don't quite trust the carbon fiber ones. But that's pretty irrational. I might eventually be lured to the dark side. by the lighter weight.
Locking mechanism: Flick-locks/lever-locks. I've dealt with twist locks on too many other things (camera tripods, and so on). They don't release when I want them do, and do release when I don't want them to.
Weight: I just specified poles that are too heavy, since I chose the heavier option in the previous three categories. So be it.
REI's house brand is made by Komperdell, and I've found that it's done OK for me.
Mags tells me that you can actually get a halfway decent pair of carbon fiber poles at Costco for about $30.
Hikingjim
04-01-2016, 18:25
I've had some problems with the black diamond flicklocks on my poles. Had to return one set
I would think ones that don't fold would be much less likely to give you trouble over time... but collapsing is beneficial for many things
mortonjl
04-02-2016, 05:43
Don't spend too much $$$ on them for a thru hike, they're gonna break
AngryGerman
04-12-2016, 14:07
Komperdell Carbon Poles are what I opt for. I've used most other brands as well but opt for the Komperdell's.
sheperd80
04-12-2016, 14:17
Ive used everything from cheap walmart poles to black diamonds. Im rly loving my BD trail ergo corks. Cork is a must in my opinion as is flick-lock vs twist. Other than that, a stick is a stick. I opted for aluminum because i also use them for my shelter do i reasoned that the extra weight was worth having slightly stronger poles for that job.
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Odd Man Out
04-12-2016, 20:37
...Mags tells me that you can actually get a halfway decent pair of carbon fiber poles at Costco for about $30.
I think these are the ones. Skurka's review is very favorable. Not just good for the price, but good for any price. That blog post is a few years old now so the price may have gone up. Also available from places other than Costco, in case you don't want to join that cult ;-)
http://andrewskurka.com/2015/cascade-mountain-tech-quick-lock-trekking-poles-review/
http://www.cascademountaintech.com/Quick-Lock-Trekking-Poles-p/1010.htm
sheepdog
04-12-2016, 21:25
bamboo snow shoe poles from Good will. $2....nearly indestructible and very light. I also like the natural material. They don't fold down but that has rarely been a problem.
Bigfoot86
04-17-2016, 21:25
Gossamer gear lt4s are by far the lightest i have ever touched and they seam to last for a decently long times
Secondmouse
04-18-2016, 14:06
My personal preference:
Grip material: Cork. Foam grips chafe my sweaty hands.
Shaft material: Aluminium. I just don't quite trust the carbon fiber ones. But that's pretty irrational. I might eventually be lured to the dark side. by the lighter weight.
Locking mechanism: Flick-locks/lever-locks. I've dealt with twist locks on too many other things (camera tripods, and so on). They don't release when I want them do, and do release when I don't want them to.
Weight: I just specified poles that are too heavy, since I chose the heavier option in the previous three categories. So be it.
REI's house brand is made by Komperdell, and I've found that it's done OK for me.
Mags tells me that you can actually get a halfway decent pair of carbon fiber poles at Costco for about $30.
Mags has been saying that but it hasn't been true for a couple years. the poles he was talking about are the Cascade Mountain linked to above -- http://www.amazon.com/Cascade-Mountain-Tech-Carbon-Trekking/dp/B00EJP43FA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458142294&sr=8-1&keywords=cascade+trekking+poles
(http://www.amazon.com/Cascade-Mountain-Tech-Carbon-Trekking/dp/B00EJP43FA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458142294&sr=8-1&keywords=cascade+trekking+poles)
fwiw, there is a slew of $25-35/pair poles on Amazon right now. they look to be made by the same parent corporation as the various components (grips, tips, flip locks) appear identical.
I got a no-name pair of these carbon poles last year that weigh less than 1lb and are holding up well. they do occasionally rattle a bit but for the price/weight, I can live with it...
My head is dizzy reading all these YouTube like comments.
For the AT and since you're asking probably as a new trekking pole user you might consider something less expensive, at least until you get a better feel for what you might want in a perhaps higher priced set, collapsible(foldable), flicklock or equivalent, non twist lock, perhaps having some length of adjustment. Cork handles are the best especially for a humid AT thru but it will not likely be a deal breaker if you go with a solid feeling thick foam. Seek a lower section at least made of high grade aluminum. If trekking pole wt is a great concern consider stiff carbon fiber for the upper collapsible lengths. FWIW, not all trekking poles use the same grade of materials.
Leki has great customer service. Had an old alpine pr given to me they totally refurbished for free at Trail Days in Damascus on an AT thru. Black Diamond has always been good to me with my BD foldable Ultra Distance Carbon Z Poles and a set of Distance FLZ carbon poles. If one expects free replacement on broken UL carbon poles as a matter of habit when it doesn't involve a defect but abuse that can be problematic and I would say unreasonably shady. Komperdell Carbon Fiber Vario 4 in the 145 cm length are GREAT poles that I've borrowed but don't own. They strike a great balance of attributes for the gear wt conscious hiker They are stratospherically priced but have a 3 yr warranty. They are super light, strong, have a lower protective metal sleeve(where trekking poles can usually be damaged), and adjustable(I like that for various use in shelter set ups and when steeply ascending/descending). With my REI rebate check I bought a full priced ($150) pr of the 135 cm REI Carbon Expedition Vario poles made in Austria by Komperdell that Andrew Skurka referred to in his comparison trekking pole piece. IMHO, they strike a great similarity in features as the above Komperdell Carbon Fiber Vario 4 branded poles discussed. They are too short for me. They have never seen a trail. I used them to erect a shelter in the back yard twice. They are now reduced at REI in price to $110. If you want mine I'll ship them to you for $70 CONUS me paying shipping. PM me if you or anyone else is interested.
I don't even use trekking poles most of the time but give them a try now and then. I'm not for or against them. I recognize utility in trekking pole use. This is going to open up debate but IMHO trekking poles aren't a necessity for backpacking for as many as use them as the marketing makes them out to be.
Tipi Walter
04-18-2016, 20:41
I've heard many say that Black Diamond is not very helpful with warranty/repair/replacement issues whereas, Lekki will bend over backwards for their customers.
This might be true as I emailed Black Diamond about my ruined pole cork 5 years ago and I'm still waiting for a reply.
I think cork grips are the most important decision. Cork grips worked great for me.
Cork grips are comfy and excellent in the winter at 0F; problem is, they crack, split and fall apart after continuous use and cannot be replaced as far as I know (see above email comment). I bought 2 sets of BK Diamond alpine cork poles (4 altogether) and I'm now on my third pole due to cork disintegration (I only use one pole when hiking).
I personally like the foam grips. The rubber is too hard for my comfort and the cork is heavier and gets old and slimy and stinky and falls apart more readily than the foam.
I like the shorter tips on the Leki (or BD Distance Z-poles for that matter) better than the longer tips on the regular BD poles that get stuck in the mud significantly more.
Cork does fall apart. My next pole will be something w/o cork.
Black Diamond had last years model of Alpine Carbon Corks on sale for over 30% off. Haven't used them yet but pretty highly recommended on every site I looked at.
The same pole I use and all of the cork has split and fallen apart.
On my third cork pole I think I found a solution---I bought a container of Birkenstock cork "saver" glue stuff and coat my pole grip with it before every trip. So far so good.
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTIwMFgxNjAw/z/f8EAAOSwg3FUcnZh/$_1.JPG
https://www.rei.com/product/884628/rei-carbon-exp-vario-trekking-poles-pair
Pacer Poles are the most comfortable to use and most efficient at transferring arm motion to forward motion. If you don't go with them, then I agree with the others, it doesn't make much difference.
Been using Pacer Poles for 11 or 12 years now (maybe more) and will never buy anything but. Only problems were worn out tips and a bent pole section after I stepped on it. Both times the manufacturer sent the replacement parts very quickly and at very low cost, even including a gift of 6 sets of rubber tips at no extra charge.
Also, no need to learn how to use wrist straps with Pacer Poles - they are not necessary. The only purpose for the wrist tether is for your convenience.
+1 on Pacer Poles. They are comfortable, efficient and extremely intuitive to use. Well worth the money!
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Turk6177
04-19-2016, 14:10
I use carbon fiber REI poles with snap locks. I have logged 300+ miles with the poles without any complaints. I occasionally have to tighten one of the screws on the snap locks, but other than that they are great. They have saved me a lot. I would look for lightweight and a cork handle if I were to purchase new ones now. Mine are light, but have a black foam handle. I heard cork is better but am not sure why.
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nsherry61
04-19-2016, 14:41
. . . Mine are light, but have a black foam handle. I heard cork is better but am not sure why. . .
Cork is better than rubber. But I think foam better than cork. Foam is lighter, more durable, doesn't get gross when sweaty and wet. Washes more easily. Doesn't hold stink. Should I go on? . . . I don't really have anything else.
Now you've heard foam is better, and you have reasons. Enjoy figuring out what you like best!
I think the biggest reason people prefer cork is that they are comparing its comfort to rubber, not good foam and cork it's "natural" so it must be better? I don't know.
nsherry61
04-19-2016, 14:49
. . . On my third cork pole I think I found a solution---I bought a container of Birkenstock cork "saver" glue stuff and coat my pole grip with it before every trip. So far so good.
From my Birkenstock days, I recall this stuff to be similar contact cement.
Doesn't it seal up the cork and thus make it more like holding onto a rubber grip instead of a more breathable and flexible untreated cork?
Tipi Walter
04-19-2016, 15:20
From my Birkenstock days, I recall this stuff to be similar contact cement.
Doesn't it seal up the cork and thus make it more like holding onto a rubber grip instead of a more breathable and flexible untreated cork?
It's more like Elmer's and dries to a clear glossy coat. It keeps cork cracks or chunks missing from getting bigger.
https://tipiwalter.smugmug.com/Backpack-2015-Trips-161/17-Days-In-Rattlerville/i-WkCdjgK/0/O/Trip%20165%20381.jpg
nsherry61
04-19-2016, 15:28
That is one beautiful deep red/brown trekking pole handle I gotta admit.
Rev Hiker did a You Tube Video on Lumi Alpine Cork Trekking Poles. They had all the futures of my Leki Cork Handle Poles at over half the cost. If I were looking for the lowest cost high quality poles - these would get my vote. They are at a price worth purchasing and trying them out. I beleive the older and or the more knee problems one has; the more they vote for pole usage. In my younger day's I used nothing, then the hiking staff (still in use for day hikes), and now Leki. They make a huge difference going up and down mountains. While traveling on fairly level ground or ridgeline, I hook them by an "S Biner" to my pack straps. I now will not go without them because of the duel purpose they provide as tarp poles.
handlebar
04-20-2016, 18:55
I swear by Leki brand. My first pair lasted over 17 years and I still have one of them; the other was lost in the Gila River when I wound up swimming on a ford. I'm using a lighter Leki pole now (aluminum). I've had great service from Leki. They replaced the bottom sections on my original pair at Trail Days. They have replaced the bottom sections on my newer pair twice. One of those replacements occured while I was hiking the Arizona Trail. I got angry with a cactus and tried beating on it with an already slightly bent pole and the bottom section wound up bending further, then breaking. I googled "Leki Buffalo NY" where their US customer service is and they sent me out a replacement section via Priority Mail to my next town stop at their expense.
One of those replacements occured while I was hiking the Arizona Trail. I got angry with a cactus. Love it! :banana
http://www.amazon.com/Cascade-Mountain-Tech-Carbon-Trekking/dp/B00EJP43FA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458142294&sr=8-1&keywords=cascade+trekking+poles
14.2 oz without the baskets for the pair.
I second this choice....love mine that I got for less than $45.
jjozgrunt
05-10-2016, 21:17
Used a number but converted to the Helinox, don't know if they are available in the states. Here is a link to the ones I use. http://www.helinox.com.au/dl145-walking-poles.php
earlyriser26
05-11-2016, 08:21
Just make sure you get flip locks vs. twist locks. I have had twist locks fail twice.