Trekking Poles: Are They Worth It?

Are trekking poles worth it? Yes — for most hikers, most of the time. Studies show they reduce knee impact by up to 25% on descents, improve uphill efficiency by 4–8%, and dramatically improve balance on rocky or root-covered terrain. But they’re not a silver bullet — using them wrong is worse than not using them at all.

What trekking poles actually do

• Reduce knee impact on descents (the single biggest benefit).
• Distribute the load across more muscle groups uphill.
• Add 4 points of contact for stability on creek crossings, scree, and snow.
• Substitute as tent poles for ultralight trekking-pole shelters.

Carbon vs aluminum poles

The big choice:

• Aluminum: bends instead of snapping under load. Cheaper. Slightly heavier. Best for rocky scrambling.
• Carbon: lighter (saves ~3 oz/pair). Stiffer feel. Snaps if pinched between rocks. Best for moving fast and light. Carbon trekking poles on Amazon→.

How to size trekking poles

Adjust the pole so your elbow makes a 90° angle when the pole tip is on the ground next to your foot. On steep uphill, shorten them slightly; on descents, lengthen them. Most hikers leave them at one setting and never adjust — which costs them most of the benefit.

Cork vs foam vs rubber grips

Cork molds to your hand and absorbs sweat best — the choice for long days. Foam is light and warm. Rubber is durable but blisters appear in heat. For most hikers we recommend cork.

Technique that matters

Plant the pole slightly behind your forward foot, not in front. The pole should push you forward, not catch you. On descents, plant ahead of your step to take impact before your foot lands.

When to skip poles

Trail runners chasing PRs, technical class 3+ scrambling, and short flat trails are the only times poles are net-negative. Otherwise, they’re worth carrying. Browse trekking poles on Amazon→.

Build poles into your hiking plan

Trekking poles pair especially well with mountain summit, multi-day and winter trails. Run your next trail through the Trail Difficulty Visualizer — if the difficulty score is over 50, packing poles is almost always the right call.