Fixed-length or telescopic trekking poles are bulky and can be a pain to carry on the trail. Most hikers only use trekking poles for short sections of their hike, but the hassle of carrying them for those short sections often outweighs the benefits. Foldable trekking poles solve that problem by being small and compact enough to fit in your belt or pack. When you need them, they’re easy to set up and use. And when you’re done using them, fold them up and put them away.

What Are Foldable Trekking Poles?

Foldable trekking poles work by extending and locking into place when in use. This feature allows them to be used like regular trekking poles, providing stability and support while hiking. Folding Z style trekking poles come in 2, 3 or 4 sections, each connected by a cord. When not in use, the poles fold into a small, compact size that is easy to carry on the trail.

Best Foldable Trekking Poles To Buy

Pros & Cons Of Foldable Trekking Poles

Pros

  • Lightweight and Compact: Folding trekking poles are much lighter and more compact than regular trekking poles, making them easier to carry on the trail.
  • Easier to Stow: Folding trekking poles can be easily stowed away in a backpack or carry-on bag when not in use.
  • Easy to use: These poles are easy to set up and use and can be adjusted to fit your height.
  • Easier to Stow: Folding trekking poles can be easily stowed away in a backpack or carry-on bag when not in use.

Cons

  • Less sturdy: Some hikers find foldable trekking poles are not as sturdy as regular trekking poles.
  • More difficult to adjust: Foldable trekking poles can be more difficult to adjust than regular trekking poles. Many are fixed in length, so you'll need to find a set for your height.

Top Foldable Trekking Pole Brands?

Leki: Leki is a German company that specializes in outdoor gear. Their trekking poles are lightweight aluminum and have a comfortable foam grip. Premium brand is probably the number one brand in the world for trekking and trail running poles.

Komperdell: Komperdell trekking poles are lightweight aluminum and have a three-year warranty. Another Premium Brand which made top-notch gear,

Black Diamond: Black Diamond is another well-known name in the world of outdoor gear. Their trekking poles are made with aircraft-grade aluminum and have a cork grip for comfort. A high-end brand that specializes in producing outdoor equipment.

Trekology: Trekology trekking poles are made of high-quality materials and have a lifetime warranty. Products are very affordable, well-made, and sturdy.

Hiking Pole Tips & Hints

How To Use Trekking Pole

Foldable trekking poles can be a great asset when hiking, providing stability and support on the trail. Here are a few tips for using trekking poles:

-Extend the poles to their full length when using them.

-Be sure to grip the poles correctly, with your hands positioned around the handles.

-Use your trekking poles on both uphills and downhills to maintain balance.

Sizing Tips

Can You Run With Trekking Pole?

Yes, you can run with foldable trekking poles. Many runners find that using trekking poles can help them to run more efficiently and with less effort. Trekking poles can also help remove the pressure from your knees and joints. However, if you plan on using poles for running, check out our Cross Trail Running Poles guide for more information.

Are Foldable Trekking Poles Lighter?

Foldable trekking poles are typically made with lightweight materials, such as aluminum or carbon fiber. Therefore they are much lighter than regular trekking poles, which can be made with heavier materials such as steel.

Final Thoughts: Should I Buy Collapsable/Foldable Trekking Poles?

Foldable trekking poles offer many benefits for hikers, including being lightweight and compact. However, they have some potential disadvantages, such as being less sturdy and more difficult to adjust. Ultimately, whether or not to buy foldable trekking poles depends on your specific needs and preferences.

There are several advantages to using foldable trekking poles. First, they are much lighter than regular trekking poles, making them easier to carry on the trail. Second, they are much more compact when folded up, making them easier to pack and transport.

However, there are a few potential disadvantages to using foldable trekking poles. Foldable trekking poles are typically more expensive than regular trekking poles. Some hikers find folding trekking poles are not sturdy as regular telescopic poles.

I own both telescopic and folding trekking poles. I prefer to use my telescopic poles for longer backpacking trips because they are sturdy. However, I prefer the lightweight and compact Z folding poles for shorter day hikes or when I go trail running or take part in an ultra. I own the Leki Pro Trail Poles and Black Diamond Telescopic poles.

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