What's the difference between a cane, a walking stick, and trekking poles?

While both walking sticks and walking canes provide assistance, generally, walking canes are intended for ambulatory support, taking a load off of injured body parts and increasing functionality, “as opposed to helping yourself propel forward or slow your descent,” says Goei. The ideal height of walking sticks versus canes differs as well, with canes being lower so that the elbow is only slightly bent versus at a 90-degree angle as with walking sticks. A walking stick or staff, sometimes called a hiking staff, is traditionally a single pole made out of a variety of materials. It is sometimes adjustable and can also be sold in pairs, like for Nordic walking . Even a salvaged branch can be a makeshift walking stick but is naturally prone to breaking under pressure and isn’t adjustable. Trekking poles are designed to be used as a pair (but can be used individually as a staff), are adjustable, and made from a combination of lightweight metals and/or synthetic materials for extra durability, packability, and ease of carrying on longer, more challenging outings. This also tends to make them more expensive than your average walking stick. But ultimately, for general fitness and hiking purposes, walking sticks and trekking poles are not much different, and either can be used depending on the activity.

Are walking sticks and trekking poles really that helpful?

“My experience is that trekking poles make you hike 'smarter' in that your brain is receiving information from places other than your two feet when it decides to inform you how to stay balanced,” says Walker, who got his start as a guide in Switzerland where everyone carried trekking poles, “even the young ones with presumably indestructible knees." In addition to easing the load, walking sticks can help you to burn more calories , improve your upper body strength, and help to reduce ankle fractures and muscle soreness. “People of all ages will benefit from using poles,” says Goei. “Poles provide a more distributed body workout, engaging the upper body during hiking instead of just the lower body. As mentioned before, they provide stability and balance while relieving pressure off joints, which is beneficial to everyone, no matter your age,” he says. Added stability can be especially important for people with osteoarthritis, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or who are overweight, among other conditions. And if you have bad knees, consider wearing running shoes for bad knees while using the walking sticks.

What is the best height for a walking stick?

According to our experts, your walking stick or pole should be tall enough to allow for a 90-degree bend in your elbow. This generally means the handle of your stick should come up to your waist. If you’re taking on a lot of hills, you’ll want your stick to be a little longer. Many walking sticks come with an upper and lower grip so that you can change the positioning of your grip depending on the type of trail you're navigating. “Generally, when traveling uphill, the poles are adjusted smaller, whereas downhill, the poles are lengthened a bit,” says Martin.

On which side should I hold my walking stick?

The majority of trekking poles are sold as a pair. However, should you prefer to carry just one pole, that’s okay too. The side on which you carry it will vary depending on what feels comfortable to you and the type of terrain you're navigating. Many carry their walking stick on their dominant side, however, if you are navigating tricky terrain on either the right or left, you may wish to switch your single stick to the challenging side. “It may be beneficial for you to switch sides occasionally to balance out your muscles,” says Martin. ”If you’ve got a sore knee, you can use the trekking pole or walking stick like one uses a cane for a little extra support,” he says. That being said, using two poles will help keep you better balanced.

The Best Walking Sticks and Trekking Poles of 2023

From a walk around the block to setting out on an off-trail hike or backpacking trip, a walking stick or set of trekking poles can be great tools for comfort, stability, and safety. The added support can also improve coordination, relieve fatigue and prevent injuries for any age or experience level.

“They provide stability and balance on uneven terrain, and most importantly, relieve pressure off major joints like ankles, knees, and hips,” says Cory Goei, AMGA-certified SPI, a rock climbing guide and instructor in Los Angeles, CA. “They can also provide more of a full-body workout,” he says. By practicing safe posture and balance when using trekking poles and walking sticks, you can gain confidence and strength to move proprioceptively—in other words, you'll better understand where your body is in space and how it's moving. This allows you to further activate and challenge the rest of your muscles as you hike.

When purchasing walking sticks or trekking poles, consider the terrain, weather conditions, and activities you're planning to do with them to decide what you need—a single stick for casual hikes or a set of poles for greater adventures. To help you find the right walking sticks and trekking poles, we tested and compared the best ones from top brands, rating each on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) in five key areas: comfort, stability, ease of use, extra features, and value. A walking coach from our Review Board reviewed the contents of this article for accuracy surrounding proper use and physical benefits.

Our Top Picks

Best Women's Overall:

Leki Cressida FX Carbon AS at Amazon

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Best Men's Overall:

Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Trekking Poles at Amazon

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Best Unisex:

Mountain Safety Research DynaLock Ascent Carbon Poles at Amazon

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Best Budget:

TheFitLife Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles at Amazon

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Best for Hiking:

Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles at Amazon

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Best Weight Capacity:

Trekology Trek-Z Hiking Poles at Amazon

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Best Lightweight:

Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles at Amazon

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Best Heavy Duty:

Leki Makalu Lite Cor-Tec AS Trekking Poles at Amazon

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Best for Snow:

Komperdell Descent Carbon Rocksleeve Vario Ski Poles at Walmart

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Best for Kids:

Black Diamond Kids’ First Strike Trekking Pole at Walmart

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Tested
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.8

Amazon

View On Amazon

Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Value

4.5/5
Stability/Support

5/5
Ease of Use

4.5/5
Extra Features

5/5

Pros

Strong hybrid construction
Compact, trifold design
Ergonomically designed for women

Cons

Expensive
Wrist straps aren’t padded

Designed for women, these trekking poles are our top overall pick because of their carbon fiber construction that is strong, stable, and made to absorb excess shock. Made with a hybrid shaft construction of carbon upper stems and a durable aluminum bottom piece and carbide-enforced tip, these sleek, trifold poles proved durable and very supportive. Thanks to an ergonomic design, their cork grips felt very natural to hold. We also like that the tip’s dynamic suspension system absorbs shock very well, scoring a perfect 5 out of 5 for comfort and design.

While testing, we found the set easy to put together and deconstruct with a tight pull and snap of its locking system. Once we got a feel for the bit of swift pull required to lock these open, we found them very easy to maneuver and adjust using the speed lock lever, rating them a 4.5 out of 5 for ease of use. When not in use, we like how the set folds up compactly into the included sleeve, making this pair neat and stowable for everyday use, hiking, or backpacking.

When using these to hike through a river with large boulders and slippery footing, we felt supported and never slipped. We also like the mesh drawstring bag these come with, which keeps the set contained in or attached to your pack with built-in elastic loops.

With an impressive design, compatibility, and basket tip and drawstring sleeve included, these poles are a worthy investment for anyone needing a super strong, yet light, pair of poles that are versatile for various terrains.

Price at time of publication: $230

^{Key Specs:
Weight (Per Pole): 9.1 ounces | Extended Length: 39.4-47.2 inches | Collapsed Length: 16 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping, folding | Included Accessories: Basket tip, drawstring bag | Shaft Material: Carbon, aluminum}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.7

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Value

4.3/5
Stability/Support

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Extra Features

4.3/5

Pros

Durable
Comfortable grip
Adaptable to changing terrain

Cons

Expensive

Our men’s top pick is this adjustable carbon set, which we found to be incredibly durable, comfortable, and versatile for many types of adventures. The interchangeable carbide tech tips on these poles enable you to adapt to varying trail surfaces without taking a long break—this versatility and control set the pair apart from others on our list, a feature that helped us quite a bit during test hikes.

The carbon-fiber, telescoping shaft design of Alpine was easy to adjust for new terrain and stayed securely locked via strong aluminum locks, even with considerable force and weight on the poles, which is why we gave this option a score of 5 out of 5 for stability. We like that they expand to fit a wide range of heights, suiting anyone from 4-foot-8 to 6 feet tall, making them a great pair for any height. The increased adjustability also means they can be shared among hikers.

The cork grip and EVA foam extension were soft and promoted a secure grip that felt comfortable and didn’t cause blister issues for our hikers. We scored them a 5 out of 5 for comfort. While it doesn’t come with any accessories, like extra tips or a carry bag, the set is compatible with most baskets and tips. And despite being slightly bulkier compared to other options on our list, it attaches seamlessly to packs for light, easy portability. The higher price may not be worth it for those hiking on easier trails, but these poles are a tough, versatile option for your most challenging hikes.

Price at time of publication: $200

^{Key Specs:
Weight (Per Pole): 8 ounces | Extended Length: 39-51 inches | Collapsed Length: 24 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Basket tip | Shaft Material: Carbon fiber}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.5

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Comfort

4.5/5
Value

4.5/5
Stability/Support

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Extra Features

4.5/5

Pros

Folds nicely
Easy-adjust pole locks
Multi-sport versatility

Cons

No bag for accessories
Fold release button can pinch fingers

These Kevlar-reinforced carbon fiber walking sticks are our top unisex pick for their straightforward, sleek design featuring a comfortable grip, padded handle straps, and two size options to accommodate a wide range of heights.

Like the Leki Cressida, these trifold were quick and easy to assemble and, when not in use, folded up to a comparable, compact size to be stored or stowed. One thing to note is that the push button to release these for folding can pinch your fingers, but it’s an issue that can be solved by being extra cautious. The tool-free pole lock adjustment system was simple to tighten when needed, too, and overall the sticks scored a 4.5 out of 5 for ease of use.

The EVA foam upper grip and shaft extension are firm but soft as suede for comfortable handling, and we appreciated the lightly padded wrist straps that lent extra support on ascents and descents. With a smaller diameter than many, the Ascents also felt lighter than they actually are, and the reinforced carbon made these slim poles feel durable and long-lasting. But since the internal tightening cord isn’t protected, nor are the shaft pieces reinforced at the connection points, they might chip over time, hurting the design rating.

We particularly like this pick for its sizing options and versatility. The small and large sizes accommodate heights ranging from 4-foot-8 to over 6-foot-4, with both options easily adjustable for varied terrain and for sharing among family or friends. Both sets come with more accessories than many at their price point, including a set of small and larger baskets for grass, sand, and snow, which we found easy to switch out. While they don’t have a nifty bag, the included Velcro straps do just fine to keep the poles wrapped tight for packing. All this considered, the set scored a 4.5 out of 5 overall for design features.

We found these to be very sleek and found that they pack up less awkwardly than other folding pairs we tested. From hiking to cross-country snowshoeing to split boarding, we highly recommend these versatile walking sticks as a great, all-season investment for multi-sport trekkers.

Price at time of publication: $170

^{Key Specs:
Weight (Per Pole): 8.5 ounces (small), 9 ounces (large) | Extended Length: 39.4-47 inches (small), 47.2-55 inches (large) | Collapsed Length: 14.2 inches (folded) | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping, folding | Included Accessories: Additional baskets | Shaft Material: Kevlar-reinforced carbon fiber}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.5

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Comfort

4/5
Value

5/5
Stability/Support

4.5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Extra Features

4/5

Pros

Very light
Extra tips included
Carry bag included

Cons

Wrist strap may be too long for some

Sometimes both seasoned and rookie hikers need reliable walking sticks at an affordable price, which is why we recommend this set of poles. Weighing in at around 7 ounces a stem—less than most on our list—these poles are light to carry and easy to transport. The carbon fiber pole construction, which telescopes and locks tight with adjustment, feels sturdy and built to last, scoring a 4.5 out of 5 for stability.

For the price, these trekking poles have some premium features—they sport a contoured, natural cork grip and EVA foam extension grip, both of which feel great in the hand. Though the wrist straps might be a little long for small hands or wrists, we managed to find a comfortable, supportive fit after some tinkering, and the extra slack wasn’t too bothersome. This solidified the pair's respectable scores of 4 out of 5 for comfort and extra features.

We love that this set comes with so many accessories, including two pairs of rubber tips, road feet, and a pair of small snow baskets, which we found stayed on tightly and did help with traction on slick surfaces (like mud and rock). You can even choose from a selection of bright or neutral colors.

Overall, we think the combination of solid features and accessories makes this set a great value for the price.

Price at time of publication: $43

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 7.4 ounces | Extended Length: 24-53 inches | Collapsed Length: 24 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Additional tips, baskets, storage bag | Shaft Material: Carbon fiber}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.2

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Comfort

4/5
Value

4.5/5
Stability/Support

4.5/5
Ease of Use

4.5/5
Extra Features

3.5/5

Pros

Lifetime replacement
Padded wrist straps
Additional tips included

Cons

No anti-shock mechanism
Lock screws need periodic tightening

Our top pick for all-terrain hiking, these trekking poles are incredibly strong, come with tips for different seasons and trail surfaces, and offer a lifetime replacement promise. Made of trusty aluminum, which is stronger than carbon fiber, we are impressed with their quality for a set so inexpensive. And while they’re slightly heavier than carbon sticks, it’s not significant if weight isn’t a major concern for you. If you’re looking for extra shock protection, however, these won’t provide it.

Like other telescoping poles, these extend easily and lock in seconds, thanks to Montem’s flip-lock system. While testing, we found the process simple, but one of the pole’s locking mechanisms did come loose, which made it difficult to tighten without a tool mid-hike. It’s worth noting that they hold very securely once tightened, however, they have to be tightened quite a bit to remain secure. They also tend to need tightening from time to time for extensions to hold tight. We didn’t have any issues with the lock clips themselves, and the poles offered excellent support, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for stability but only a 3.5 in design because of the added maintenance.

The aesthetically-pleasing EVA foam handles resemble cork but are comfortable and sweat-absorbing. The extended foam grip has extra contour and texture, which we found helpful for pulling ourselves up while climbing. The wrist straps are padded and adjust nicely to prevent chafing. They also stay secure, so you won’t accidentally drop a pole while hiking, though they also need occasional retightening.

The poles come with added tips and baskets for traversing off-road terrain, and you can choose from a variety of colors and patterns. Regardless of their quirks, we still enjoyed these poles and recommend them for their durability, easy setup, and great value for the price.

Price at time of publication: $70

^{Key Specs:
Weight (Per Pole): 9.6 ounces | Length: 24-53 inches | Collapsed Length: 24 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Additional tips, baskets | Shaft Material: Aluminum}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.6

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Comfort

4.5/5
Value

4.5/5
Stability/Support

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Extra Features

4/5

Pros

Durable
Budget-friendly
Includes carry bag

Cons

Rubber tips may slide off
Heavier than other options
Faux cork handles

Aluminum construction and reinforced joints make these walking sticks dependable on all types of terrain, supportive for all body types, and our top pick for those who require a little more support.

Like our best unisex pick (Mountain Safety Research’s Carbon Poles), these poles come in longer and shorter versions, and both fold down to a compact 15 inches, making them just as easy to stow. The trifold design is extra sturdy thanks to their 100% aerospace grade 7075 aluminum shaft, the same material used for airplanes. Because of their performance on the road and trail, we scored them a perfect 5 out of 5 for stability.

We love that these poles come with a ripstop, water-resistant bag, and various tips, baskets, and feet, but we weren’t a fan of the faux cork handles and docked these a point for their extra features score after a tip slid off mid-hike, scoring them a 4 out of 5 for this attribute. We did like that the soft faux cork grips are made from sweat-absorbing EVA foam and that they feature extension grips, which we found to be similar to Montem’s Ultra Strong handles. The contour and base supported shifts when ascending or descending steep hills, which is why we scored them a 4.5 out of 5 for comfort. We like that they also come in a cork-handle version if you prefer the upgrade.

We scored these a perfect 5 out of 5 for ease of use for their flip locks, which makes trail-side setup fast so that you can spend more time walking and less time adjusting. Overall, we think these foldable poles are a great bang for your buck. They’re super strong and very space-saving. Their heavier weight isn’t very noticeable for everyday hikers unconcerned with added ounces.

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:
Weight (Per Pole): 10.4 ounces | Extended Length: 39.3-47.25 inches (small), 45.25-53 inches (large) | Collapsed Length: 15 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping, folding | Included Accessories: Additional tips, baskets, drawstring bag | Shaft Material: Aluminum}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.5

Foxelli

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Our Ratings

Comfort

4.5/5
Value

4.5/5
Stability/Support

5/5
Ease of Use

4.5/5
Extra Features

4/5

Pros

Good for trail running
Great value
Handle isn’t bulky

Cons

Cork hand grips may chip
Lower quality of carbon

When every ounce counts, we recommend these carbon trekking poles, our top pick for the best lightweight walking sticks. Made from 100% carbon fiber, a material known for being incredibly lightweight, each pole weighs 7 ounces, so your energy can go toward moving faster instead of lifting a heavier pole.

This weight difference was noticeable when we took the Foxellis out on a hike, along with the impact-absorbing qualities inherent to the carbon material. The set's tips and baskets stayed securely put when tried, and the same went for the telescoping poles and quick-lock screws. The Foxellis scored 4.5 out of 5 for stability and ease of use. Among the included tips, the road feet felt especially nice and shock-absorbing on the pavement, propelling each stride forward. The poles also came with a carry sleeve and a bonus fanny pack, which was a nice surprise.

When it comes to durability, the adage “you pay for what you get” is somewhat true with this pair, to an extent. It does feel like a lower quality of carbon than much more expensive options, and some of the plastic parts, like the lock joints, feel slightly chintzier than a pair triple its price, but nothing that seriously concerned us.

These poles felt extremely comfortable, with a natural cork grip-foam extension combo, similar to the Montem’s handle, that kept hands comfortable and dry. The handle felt a little smaller than others. It also has some of the tighter-adjusting wrist straps, which are padded and smooth-seamed, making these well-suited for smaller hands and wrists or for someone who doesn’t like a bulky grip.

Considering the value and suitability for all conditions and activities, we like that these poles maintain all the necessary features of a trustworthy walking stick while shedding that unwanted extra weight (and price).

Price at time of publication: $60

^{Key Specs:
Weight (Per Pole): 7 ounces | Extended Length: 24-55 inches | Collapsed Length: 24 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Additional tips, baskets, drawstring bag, fanny pack | Shaft Material: Carbon fiber}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.6

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Comfort

4.5/5
Value

4.5/5
Stability/Support

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Extra Features

4/5

Pros

Long length adjustability
Lock screws don’t require tool
Shock-absorbing

Cons

Expensive
Heavier and longer than other options

If you need a pair that can take a beating, we recommend this pair, our top pick for heavy-duty walking sticks. Preferred by the experts we interviewed, Leki poles have a reputation for being easy to use, strong, and generally compact to carry during hiking or backpacking, and the Makalu Lite is no exception. ”Leki offers shock dampening, lessening the vibration absorbed by your hand, which is very useful over the long haul. They also break down very small, which makes it easier to pack or travel with on an airplane,” says Goei.

This set’s solid aluminum construction means they are extra durable for rugged trips but also heavier than other options. Plus, they have the same shock-dampening system at the tips as our best overall pick, Leki's Cressida FX Carbon AS Trekking Pole.

They held up during tests, scoring a perfect 5 out of 5 for our ease of use and stability attributes. We were particularly impressed by the performance of these when we loaded up with gear and had to rely on the sticks to support the added weight. We also found them to be very comfortable to carry, despite the weight, thanks to the sleek, ergonomic EVA foam handles and extension that felt quite “luxe" and earned it a 4.5 out of 5 for comfort.

While more expensive and with fewer bells and whistles than other options, these highly durable poles are worth springing for if your priorities are strength, anti-shock features, and overall reliable performance.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Weight (Per Pole): 9 ounces | Extended Length: 39-53 inches | Collapsed Length: 27 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Accessories: Basket tip | Shaft Material: Aluminum}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.6

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Comfort

4.5/5
Value

4.5/5
Stability/Support

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Extra Features

4/5

Pros

Durable
Lightweight
Ample snow baskets

Cons

Expensive
Not compact (doesn’t collapse much)

If you’re getting out in snowy conditions, we recommend these Komperdell poles. Made with a strong but light aluminum and carbon hybrid construction, strong locking mechanisms, and flexible snow baskets, they keep you moving quickly above the drifts.

Weighing in at just under a half-pound each, these poles provided us with extra confidence on tricky terrain thanks to their sturdy aluminum upper half and reinforced carbon lower half. Made for skiing, the whole pole is reinforced with a carbon rock sleeve for added protection against breakage during unexpected wipeouts and scored a 5 out of 5 for our stability attribute.

We found the large ice and snow basket easy to adjust and the grip handle and padded straps comfortable, even when wearing gloves, scoring the poles a 4.5 out of 5 for comfort and a 5 out of 5 for ease of use.

The ample grip surface area is made with rubber designed for comfort in extremely cold temperatures and helps you navigate tough inclines, whether on the slopes or off.

While this pair doesn’t collapse as much as others or come with a lot of “extras,” they are solid and will get you to stay in control and afoot on ice or packed snow.

Price at time of publication: $180

^{Key Specs:
Weight (Per Pole): 7.6 ounces | Expanded Length: 43-55 inches | Collapsible Length: 25 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Snow basket | Shaft Material: Aluminum and Carbon fiber}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.6

Black Diamond

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Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Value

5/5
Stability/Support

4/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Extra Features

4/5

Pros

Adjustability accommodates growth spurts
Steel tip for safety
Fun, bright color is easily located

Cons

Slightly expensive for kids' poles

These trekking poles by Black Diamond are our top option for keeping kids safe as they join you outdoors. Made of strong aluminum, these poles support your growing child and feature two sections that adjust to accommodate growth spurts, earning a nearly perfect value rating of 4.5 out of 5.

The specially designed handles and straps were easy for our young tester’s small hands to hold onto and carry as she navigated her footing and simple for her to adjust, earning the set a 5 out of 5 for ease of use and comfort. We like that they come with a steel safety tip to use while exploring the surroundings. They even come with bonus trekking baskets for helping young ones walk on softer soil and snow.

The poles proved pretty solid thanks to the aluminum construction and versatility on different types of terrain. Our test parent noted that she would happily pay the somewhat steep price tag for the stability and features that provided a safe, positive experience for her child.

Price at time of publication: $70

^{Key Specs:
Weight (Per Pole): 7 ounces | Expanded Length: 34-43 inches | Collapsible Length: 26 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Additional Baskets | Shaft Material: Aluminum}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.6

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Value

4.5/5
Stability/Support

4.5/5
Ease of Use

4.5/5
Extra Features

4.5/5

Pros

Budget-friendly
Easy to adjust
Sturdy

Cons

Locks should be tightened before use
Sturdiness makes these heavier than others on our list

With a strong aluminum staff, these easy-to-adjust walking sticks are our top pick for older adults who want to keep active and need more stability while on the move. Easy-to-hold cork handles are grippy and built for comfort, molding to hands in hot and cold weather and providing stable assistance when walking. And we found the wide wrist straps offered the best padding out of all poles on our list, rating them a 5 out of 5 for comfort.

The wide lever locks securely (and easily) fastened during tests to adjust the poles on the spot without much of a struggle, something especially important if you or your loved one has arthritis pain or hand immobility. This safe and simple design led us to score these poles a 4.5 out of 5 for both our ease of use and extra features attributes. And though the extra strong aluminum makes these a bit heavier than others, the sturdiness is worth the extra weight. They earned a 4.5 out of 5 for stability, losing a half point only because they need a good tightening before use.

This value-packed set comes with two pairs of rubber tips, mud baskets, snow baskets, and one pair of connectors. Stow all pieces in their carry bag, so everything’s tidy and right where you left them for when it’s time to set out again. You can even choose these poles in a variety of colors to fit your personality and easily identify your walking sticks.

Price at time of publication: $40

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 9.7 ounces | Extended Length: 25.5-54 inches | Collapsed Length: 24.5 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Telescoping | Included Accessories: Additional tips, baskets, drawstring bag | Shaft Material: Aluminum}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.8

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Comfort

5/5
Value

4.5/5
Stability/Support

4.5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Extra Features

5/5

Pros

Comfortable grip
Budget-friendly
Comfortable grip and wrist straps

Cons

Heavier than other options
Max length is shorter than others

Two isn’t always better than one, and when one trekking pole is all you want, we recommend this sturdy aluminum pole from A Alafen. Its durable aluminum frame offers stable support to balance footing, leverage to help you up steep steps, or measure the depths of a stream before crossing. This pole’s tungsten steel rod tips help give it great traction, while the rubber tips and basket offer stability and versatility on slippery or soft surfaces.

Designed with tri-folding suspension, it’s easy to collapse and extend thanks to its quick-lock system, which we found simple thanks to graphic prompts on the pole itself. It also only measures just over a foot when folded up, making it a lot more compact than other options on our list. And while the aluminum makes it heavier than some, it wasn’t bothersome on the trail—plus, there’s just one to pop in your pack. In total, its design features, ease of use, and comfort all scored a glowing 5 out of 5.

The pole comes with a nice carrying bag, making it particularly travel-friendly, and it comes at an affordable price.

Price at time of publication: $22

^{Key Specs:
Weight: 10.3 ounces (single pole) | Extended Length: 43-49 inches | Collapsed Length: 14.1 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Folding | Included Accessories: Basket | Shaft Material: Aluminum}

Jessica Murtaugh

4.7

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Comfort

4.5/5
Value

5/5
Stability/Support

5/5
Ease of Use

4.5/5
Extra Features

4.5/5

Pros

Solid strength
Collapsible and adjustable
Cushioned, foam handle

Cons

Waterproofing may wear over time
Not as easy to assemble as others on our list
Heavier than others on our list

If you’d rather go natural with your walking stick, we love this adjustable pole made with durable but light beech wood with the modern features of a synthetic pole. Unlike most wood walking sticks that don’t collapse, this pole connects by screwing its three pieces together, much like a pool cue, for a solid staff with full functionality. And get this: Its top piece extends telescopically and locks, too, making this natural stick adjustable to the same heights you would expect from a synthetic option—even a child can use it by attaching two instead of all three pieces.

Up top, this walking stick has a smooth, carved handle for your grip and a ribbed EVA foam extension with a leather wrist strap for splinter-free handling. The iron tip of this mostly wooden stick also resembles a modern trekking pole with two additional tip options, a rubber tip cap, and a mud basket. It even comes in a choice of three accent colors and with a carrying sleeve. The clever construction and extending capability, while slower than some, scored the staff a 4.5 out of 5 for ease of use, design features, and comfort.

Strong, solid, and waterproof, this walking stick is the heaviest on our list due to its solid wood construction and scored a 5 out of 5 for stability as a result. It’s an enjoyable staff for strolls and hikes where durability and natural aesthetics are preferred. Overall it's giving an old-meets-new world experience that anyone would enjoy.

Price at time of publication: $30

^{Key Specs:}
^{Weight: 24 ounces | Extended Length: 46-55 inches | Collapsed Length: 16.5 inches | Collapsing Mechanism: Unscrews, telescoping | Included Accessories: Additional tip, basket, and storage bag | Shaft Material: natural beech wood}

Jessica Murtaugh

		Overall Rating	Comfort	Value	Stability/Support	Ease of Use	Extra Features
Best Women's Overall: Leki Cressida FX Carbon AS	Amazon	4.8	5	4.5	5	4.5	5
Best Men's Overall: Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Trekking Poles	Amazon	4.7	5	4.3	5	5	4.3
Best Unisex: Mountain Safety Research DynaLock Ascent Carbon Poles	Amazon	4.5	4.5	4.5	5	5	4.5
Best Budget: TheFitLife Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles	Amazon	4.5	4	5	4.5	5	4
Best for Hiking: Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles	Amazon	4.2	4	4.5	4.5	4.5	3.5
Best Weight Capacity: Trekology Trek-Z Hiking Poles	Amazon	4.6	4.5	4.5	5	5	4
Best Lightweight: Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles	Amazon	4.5	4.5	4.5	5	4.5	4
Best Heavy Duty: Leki Makalu Lite Cor-Tec AS Trekking Poles	Amazon	4.6	4.5	4.5	5	5	4
Best for Snow: Komperdell Descent Carbon Rocksleeve Vario Ski Poles	Walmart	4.6	4.5	4.5	5	5	4
Best for Kids: Black Diamond Kids’ First Strike Trekking Pole	Walmart	4.6	5	5	4	5	4
Best for Seniors: TrailBuddy Adjustable Trekking Poles	Amazon	4.6	5	4.5	4.5	4.5	4.5
Best Single Pole: A Alafen Aluminum Collapsible Trekking Pole	Amazon	4.8	5	4.5	4.5	5	5
Best Wood: Forest Pilot Trekking Poles	Amazon	4.7	4.5	5	5	4.5	4.5

How We Rated

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best walking sticks and trekking poles we tested. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These walking sticks and trekking poles are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great walking sticks and trekking poles, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These walking sticks and trekking poles are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend walking sticks and trekking poles with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

Jessica Murtaugh

How We Selected and Tested the Best Walking Sticks and Trekking Poles

To make our list of the best walking sticks and trekking poles, we first spoke with hiking guide Peter Walker and certified rock climbing guides and instructors Cory Goei, AMGA-certified SPI, and Chad Martin, AMGA-certified SPI, WFR, to get their expert advice on which features every walking stick and trekking pole needs. Next, we consulted academic journals and scientific findings to understand how walking sticks and trekking poles can be beneficial to walkers. Then, we researched dozens of walking sticks and trekking poles from the top, trusted brands.

Finally, we tested fourteen top walking sticks and trekking poles to see how each performed in key areas, including five key attributes: comfort, stability, ease of use, extra features, and value. We tested each set at various intensities, from short and easy outings on groomed trails to longer, more challenging treks on rougher, more technical terrain at steeper elevations. Each hike ranged from 2 to 5 miles. Our testers noted how the poles performed in key areas, giving each pair a score of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for each category.

To be selected as our top pick in each category, each set had to perform according to high standards of technical specifications and expert insight.

Walking stick features are as varied as the hikers who use them. We chose our top walking stick picks by speaking to four experts, including hiking guides and trekkers with years of international trail experience. We considered their recommendations for why walking sticks are beneficial, how they collapse, their materials and construction, tips and baskets, and considerations for hikers as they make their first walking stick purchase. We then kept those insights in mind as we looked over various walking stick options by over 15 different manufacturers.

In choosing our best walking stick picks, we carefully reviewed customer feedback on technicalities such as ease of extension, locking mechanisms, durability, collapsibility, and comfort. We chose walking sticks at various price points that we think offer a good value. Whichever walking sticks you choose, we hope they help you to better enjoy your time outdoors!

What to Look for in a Walking Stick and Trekking Pole

Durability

Walking sticks and poles are usually lightweight, but they should also be durable. Shaft materials matter, so consider the type of hiking you’ll be doing. (More on this below). More rigorous, mountainous hiking or hiking in harsher weather will require a more durable stick that can help you navigate the terrain.

The weakest parts of a pole are the connections, so opting for a fixed walking stick may be a good idea if you need something to hold a lot of weight. New or casual hikers or even outdoor walkers may be fine with a walking staff or pole of simpler construction. If you are just starting, it’s okay to go with something less expensive. See what you like and don’t like about the walking sticks you choose so when it is time for an upgrade, you’ll be ready.

Shaft Material

Most walking sticks and trekking poles are made from carbon fiber or aluminum. Carbon fiber, a fiber-reinforced plastic, is more expensive but lighter in weight. Aluminum is more durable but heavier than carbon.

“Much is touted in terms of the strength and lightness of carbon,” says Walker. "Carbon’s strength is primarily in the long axis of the pole. If you jam the pole in a crack and torque it left or right—it will break and splinter. Aluminum will not do this so fast or catastrophically.”

For those looking to run on trails, not just walk, or for activities like backpacking when a stick’s weight is especially important, carbon fiber poles may be the better alternative. “The weight of the pole plays a factor in your fatigue over the long hike,” says Goei, who is accustomed to long trips where every ounce matters.

Wooden walking sticks are also popular hand-crafted, more aesthetically pleasing, and classic options, but generally less compact and sometimes heavy, depending on the wood.

Jessica Murtaugh

Length, Grips, Straps, and Tips

The ability to maintain good posture is important when choosing a walking stick. The length of the stick should allow for a 90-degree elbow bend when standing with the pole touching the ground. Men’s and women’s poles generally differ in height, with women’s poles being shorter and men’s poles longer. The height of most carbon and aluminum poles is adjustable—important particularly when walking up or downhill. Adjusting on the fly may be necessary to keep that comfortable 90-degree elbow bend.

Hand grips are important considerations too. The grips on women’s poles are usually made for smaller hands than men’s poles. Grips are often made from molded foam, rubber, or natural cork, with cork being more durable and comfortable but more expensive. “A rubber handle can be colder to the touch compared to a cork handle in cold weather,” says Martin.“It’s a small thing, but I will never buy a rubber-handled trekking pole after owning a cork handle. It’s the little things I guess,” he says.

Hand grips often have adjustable, sometimes padded, wrist straps that can support your hands, so you don’t have to grip the pole as tightly. They are also useful for keeping your poles securely with you. Make sure your grips and straps feel comfortable to prevent sore spots or blisters.

Walking sticks that come with interchangeable tips may be helpful to those hiking on varied terrain, like basket tips for snow and sand or rubber feet for pavement. Our experts urge caution when hiking above the tree line where vegetation is thin, and soil degradation is more likely when using carbide tips.

Adjustability

Adjustable trekking poles will extend and collapse in one of two ways: either by telescoping or folding. Telescoping is the most common, where sections of the pole are nested together and slide and lock into place. Trifold poles generally have an interior band running through the center of the poles that keep the nested sections together.

“The main feature I look for is adjustability,” says Goei. “I like my poles a little shorter going uphill and a little longer going downhill.”

And Walker recommends poles that collapse into three sections, as he says they're easier to stow. “Those that telescope in two sections will be harder to fit in your carry-on luggage and will also project awkwardly from your backpack when you're not using them.”

Special Features

Walking sticks and poles can have a variety of special features and accessories, from shock absorption to snow baskets. With most poles, the tips are interchangeable, not brand-specific. That’s great when you need to purchase new tips on the fly. If that functionality is important to you, make sure you know what surfaces the tips are meant for, if you need them, and how the tips you're eyeing affix to your pole before making a purchase.

Jessica Murtaugh

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a cane, a walking stick, and trekking poles?

While both walking sticks and walking canes provide assistance, generally, walking canes are intended for ambulatory support, taking a load off of injured body parts and increasing functionality, “as opposed to helping yourself propel forward or slow your descent,” says Goei. The ideal height of walking sticks versus canes differs as well, with canes being lower so that the elbow is only slightly bent versus at a 90-degree angle as with walking sticks.
A walking stick or staff, sometimes called a hiking staff, is traditionally a single pole made out of a variety of materials. It is sometimes adjustable and can also be sold in pairs, like for Nordic walking. Even a salvaged branch can be a makeshift walking stick but is naturally prone to breaking under pressure and isn’t adjustable.
Trekking poles are designed to be used as a pair (but can be used individually as a staff), are adjustable, and made from a combination of lightweight metals and/or synthetic materials for extra durability, packability, and ease of carrying on longer, more challenging outings. This also tends to make them more expensive than your average walking stick. But ultimately, for general fitness and hiking purposes, walking sticks and trekking poles are not much different, and either can be used depending on the activity.
Are walking sticks and trekking poles really that helpful?

“My experience is that trekking poles make you hike 'smarter' in that your brain is receiving information from places other than your two feet when it decides to inform you how to stay balanced,” says Walker, who got his start as a guide in Switzerland where everyone carried trekking poles, “even the young ones with presumably indestructible knees."
In addition to easing the load, walking sticks can help you to burn more calories, improve your upper body strength, and help to reduce ankle fractures and muscle soreness. “People of all ages will benefit from using poles,” says Goei. “Poles provide a more distributed body workout, engaging the upper body during hiking instead of just the lower body. As mentioned before, they provide stability and balance while relieving pressure off joints, which is beneficial to everyone, no matter your age,” he says. Added stability can be especially important for people with osteoarthritis, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or who are overweight, among other conditions. And if you have bad knees, consider wearing running shoes for bad knees while using the walking sticks.
What is the best height for a walking stick?

According to our experts, your walking stick or pole should be tall enough to allow for a 90-degree bend in your elbow. This generally means the handle of your stick should come up to your waist. If you’re taking on a lot of hills, you’ll want your stick to be a little longer. Many walking sticks come with an upper and lower grip so that you can change the positioning of your grip depending on the type of trail you're navigating. “Generally, when traveling uphill, the poles are adjusted smaller, whereas downhill, the poles are lengthened a bit,” says Martin.
On which side should I hold my walking stick?

The majority of trekking poles are sold as a pair. However, should you prefer to carry just one pole, that’s okay too. The side on which you carry it will vary depending on what feels comfortable to you and the type of terrain you're navigating. Many carry their walking stick on their dominant side, however, if you are navigating tricky terrain on either the right or left, you may wish to switch your single stick to the challenging side.
“It may be beneficial for you to switch sides occasionally to balance out your muscles,” says Martin. ”If you’ve got a sore knee, you can use the trekking pole or walking stick like one uses a cane for a little extra support,” he says. That being said, using two poles will help keep you better balanced.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

A certified personal trainer and avid hiker, Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, researches and reviews fitness gear for Verywell Fit. She is dedicated to reporting authentic content to her readers. Her favorite trekking poles to take hiking are Leki's Cressida FX Carbon AS Trekking Poles because of their light and compact design, the fact that they’re ergonomically made for women, and their strong stability that absorbs excess shock. For this shopping guide, she prioritized eco-conscious brands that promote size, gender, and race inclusivity in their products.

Additional reporting by Amy Scanlin

As a long-time fitness enthusiast and group fitness instructor, Amy Scanlin, ACE-GFI, MS, always sources the best products through expert opinions and first-hand reviews. When choosing top products for articles, she always balances product features, value, and practical application before recommending them to her readers. Amy is passionate about helping enable her clients and readers to live a life of activity, both in the gym and in the great outdoors.