Best Trekking Poles UK 2025: 11 Tested Picks & Buying Guide

Best Trekking Poles UK 2025: 11 Tested Picks & Buying Guide

Your knees and balance will thank you for using trekking poles, but choosing the right pair can be a faff. Carbon or aluminium? Flip‑lock or twist‑lock? Telescopic, fixed or Z‑fold? Then there’s weight, packed length, grip comfort, winter baskets and whether they’ll double as tent poles. Add classic UK conditions—slick rock, peat bogs, gusty ridges and long descents—and the wrong choice quickly becomes dead weight.

We’ve cut through the noise. For 2025 we’ve hand‑tested standout models suited to UK hills and trails and narrowed them to 11 clear picks, from brilliant budget options under £35 to premium carbon sets for fastpacking and winter use. Each recommendation explains why we chose it, the key specs and weight, what it’s best for, plus current UK pricing and where to buy. You’ll also find a practical buying guide covering materials, locks, sizing, grips, tips and baskets, along with test notes, care advice and warranty tips. Ready to find your match? Let’s get into the picks.

1. Take a Hike UK staff pick: budget aluminium trekking poles (bundle)

If you’re after a no‑nonsense pair that won’t rinse your wallet, a simple aluminium, flip‑lock set is the smart buy. They’re tough enough for UK paths and peat, easy to adjust with gloves, and most “bundle” pairs include rubber feet and baskets – sometimes even snow baskets – so you’re covered out of the box.

Why we picked it

For hikers who just want reliable support at a low price, this category nails the brief. Sets like the Lomo Aluminium, Highlander Tiree Pro and Vango Basho prove that budget aluminium poles can be sturdy, easy to live with and cheap to replace. If you just want one of the best trekking poles UK shoppers can grab under £40, this is it.

Key specs and weight

Think of this as the baseline spec you should insist on at this price point – it matches what we’ve seen on proven budget models.

Spec What to look for
Shaft Aluminium (7075 where possible), 3‑section telescopic
Locks Flip/lever locks (tool‑free tension preferred)
Grips/strap EVA foam with adjustable wrist straps
Tips/baskets Tungsten carbide tips, trekking baskets + rubber feet (often snow baskets)
Weight ~488–600g per pair (c. 244–300g per pole)
Packed length ~63–69cm

Best for

  • Day hikes and UK hillwalking: dependable support on mixed trails.
  • Beginners and loaner pairs: easy to adjust, robust, good value.
  • Wet, cold days: flip‑locks are glove‑friendly.
  • Tarp/tent duties: solid enough for shelter pitching at camp.

UK price and where to buy

Expect £30–£40 for a pair (e.g., Vango Basho ~£30, Highlander Tiree Pro ~£40; Lomo often £29–£35). Anti‑shock or beefier builds can sit closer to £50 (e.g., Robens Grasmere). Widely available from major UK outdoor retailers and marketplaces; look for bundles that include baskets and rubber tips to maximise value.

2. Black Diamond Pursuit FLZ — best overall trekking poles

The Pursuit FLZ hits the sweet spot for UK hills: tough enough for rocky Munros, quick to deploy on blustery ridges and compact on the pack when you don’t need them. It’s our pick for the best trekking poles UK hikers can rely on all year.

Why we picked it

In testing, the Pursuit FLZ felt bomb‑proof yet still reasonably light, with a Z‑fold that collapses to a tiny bundle (37cm S/M; 43cm M/L). The natural cork grip is comfy mile after mile and the algae‑based foam extension works well when you choke down on steep climbs. Wide, glove‑friendly tension levers make on‑trail tweaks easy, even in winter gloves. They’re durable, compact and simply nicer to use than most rivals — the only drawback is the premium price.

Key specs and weight

Spec Detail
Weight 496g per pair
Packed length 37cm (S/M), 43cm (M/L)
Construction Z‑pole (folding) with BD tension levers
Grips Natural cork with algae‑based foam extensions
Standout Durable, compact, very glove‑friendly

Best for

  • Year‑round hiking and snowshoeing: proven durability and winter‑friendly levers.
  • UK hillwalking and backpacking: compact Z‑fold stows neatly on packs or running vests.
  • Travel: short packed length fits easily in luggage.

UK price and where to buy

Typical UK price is around £150 per pair. Commonly stocked by specialist outdoor retailers (e.g., Ellis Brigham) and larger UK gear shops. If you want one “do‑it‑all” set, this is the safe, long‑term buy.

3. Leki Skytera FX Carbon SL — best ultralight adjustable

If you want a featherweight pole that still adjusts for steeps and descents, the Skytera FX Carbon SL is the standout. It Z-folds to a tidy 40cm, deploys fast and keeps weight to a minimum without feeling flimsy under vertical load. The foam grip and breathable leash are comfortable at pace, though the strap adjustment can be a bit fiddly, and like most carbon poles it’s less happy with side loads. Leki’s long-term spares and repairs support adds confidence for UK hill use.

Why we picked it

It’s genuinely ultralight yet adjustable (110–130cm), packs short for travel and running vests, and feels secure thanks to a positive lever clamp. For fastpackers and race days, it’s one of the best trekking poles UK hikers can choose.

Key specs and weight

Spec Detail
Weight 182g per pole
Packed length 40cm (Z‑fold)
Adjustment 110–130cm
Construction Carbon shaft, lever clamp
Noted quirks Strap adjustment can be fiddly

Best for

  • Fastpacking and trail running: ultralight, rapid deployment.
  • Big hill days with minimal kits: gram‑counters who still want adjustability.
  • Travel: compact 40cm fold.

UK price and where to buy

Typically £155–£190 per pair in the UK (RRP around £190). Widely available from specialist outdoor retailers; look for current promos if you’re price‑sensitive.

4. Harrier Catbells V2 Aluminium — best budget for running and hiking

Light, compact and unfussy, the Catbells V2 prove you don’t need to spend big to get stable support on British trails. They fold short, feel confidence‑inspiring on steeps, and come with sensible sizing advice — a great starter set or backup pair among the best trekking poles UK buyers can pick up on a budget.

Why we picked it

Tested hard in the Scottish Highlands, these impressed for reliability, comfort and value — earning runner‑up status in Outdoors Magic’s group test. You can choose the fixed‑length Catbells Pro (four sizes) for maximum simplicity and race reliability, or the standard adjustable set (two sizes) with a lever lock for everyday hiking. Materials aren’t as refined as pricier carbon options and the paint can chip, but performance per pound is outstanding.

Key specs and weight

Spec Detail
Price £60 (standard); Pro version a touch more
Weight 470g per pair
Packed length 35cm
Versions Pro fixed height (4 sizes); Standard adjustable (2 sizes)
Locking Lever lock on standard (height adjustable)
Best for Trail running, fast hiking

Best for

  • Trail running and fast hiking: compact 35cm fold rides neatly on vests and daypacks.
  • Budget hillwalking: dependable feel on mixed UK terrain.
  • New users: clear sizing options and easy adjustments.

UK price and where to buy

Standard set typically £60 in the UK, with the Pro version slightly higher. Available direct from Harrier and through select UK outdoor retailers; watch for periodic bundle deals including baskets and tips.

5. Craghoppers Treklite Carbon — best value carbon telescopic

If you want the weight savings of carbon without the premium price, the Treklite Carbon deliver. They’re simple, light and properly adjustable, with extended foam grips that stay secure even when wet. At roughly 175g per pole and a compact 36cm pack length, they undercut many rivals on the scales, yet still feel stable on rocky paths. Throw in tungsten tips, rubber tip covers and snow baskets and you’ve got one of the best trekking poles UK day‑hikers can buy for sensible money.

Why we picked it

On test they balanced low weight with real‑world usability: quick adjustment from 100–135cm, comfy grips for climbing and a broad top that’s kind to palms on long descents. They also pull double‑duty for tarp tents. Spec isn’t as fancy as pricier Leki or BD sets, but value is outstanding.

Key specs and weight

Spec Detail
Weight 350g per pair (175g each)
Adjustment 100–135cm (telescopic)
Packed length 36cm
Grips Ergonomic EVA foam with extended choke
Tips/baskets Tungsten tips, rubber tip covers, snow baskets included

Best for

  • Day hiking and backpacking: light, compact and easily adjusted.
  • Wet UK conditions: foam grips retain traction when soaked.
  • Tarp/shelter pitching: stable and height‑tunable at camp.
  • Budget carbon seekers: low weight without a high price.

UK price and where to buy

Typically £70 per pair in the UK. Sold direct by Craghoppers and through major UK outdoor retailers; look for periodic promos to maximise value.

6. Komperdell Carbon C3 Cloud Compact — best premium telescopic carbon

For hikers who prefer the simplicity and stiffness of a premium telescopic carbon pole over Z‑fold designs, the Carbon C3 Cloud Compact is a standout. It’s impressively light yet stable thanks to larger‑diameter carbon sections, and the cork handles with extended lower grip feel secure on long UK ascents and greasy descents.

Why we picked it

On test it delivered that rare mix of low weight, rigidity and glove‑friendly adjustability via aluminium lever locks. The 90–120cm range suits many hikers, while taller walkers can opt for the standard C3 Cloud (to 140cm) which remains sub‑200g per pole. It isn’t the most compact at 57cm collapsed and winter baskets aren’t included, but the on‑trail feel is undeniably premium — one of the best trekking poles UK buyers can choose if they want telescopic carbon.

Key specs and weight

Spec Detail
Weight 175g per pole
Adjustment 90–120cm (Compact model)
Collapsed length 57cm
Construction 3‑section carbon, aluminium lever locks
Grips/straps Natural cork with extended lower grip; well‑padded straps
Tips/baskets Tungsten tip; flexible trekking basket (winter baskets sold separately)
Notes Stiff, durable feel; adjustment markings can be hard to read; a bit short for tall users

Best for

  • Premium feel without faff: carbon stiffness with simple telescopic locks.
  • Mountain day hikes and classic UK rounds: precise planting on rock and bog.
  • Fast hikers who dislike Z‑fold play: stable shafts and ergonomic cork grips.

UK price and where to buy

Around £200 per pair in the UK. Commonly available from specialist outdoor retailers and major online stores; watch for occasional promos on the Compact and the taller C3 Cloud variant.

7. MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon — best for winter and mountaineering

When the hills turn icy and the packs get heavy, these MSR poles feel purpose‑built. Carbon shafts reinforced with Kevlar give a tough, confidence‑inspiring plant, while the DynaLock system lets you fine‑tune clamp tension by hand in the field. Long foam grips work well with varied hand positions, and the included snow and trekking baskets cover the full UK winter mix.

Why we picked it

They’re notably sturdy for their weight, pack short, and come in two usable length ranges that top out at 140cm for mountaineering and splitboard approaches. On test they proved versatile, tough and easy to adjust without tools — exactly what you want with cold fingers. They’re pricier than budget sets, but for winter reliability they’re among the best trekking poles UK mountaineers can buy.

Key specs and weight

A robust spec sheet geared for snow, mixed ground and heavy loads.

Spec Detail
Sizes Small 100–120cm; Large 120–140cm
Packed length Small 36.2cm; Large 44.5cm
Weight 500g per pair (Large)
Construction Carbon fibre with Kevlar reinforcements
Locking MSR DynaLock, hand‑adjustable tension
Grips Long, ergonomic hard‑foam
Tips/baskets Carbide steel tips; trekking and snow baskets included
Shock None

Best for

Serious winter days where stability matters more than shaving grams. Ideal for:

  • Winter Munros and snowshoe days: compact to carry, solid under load.
  • Mountaineering/splitboard approaches: long Large size reaches 140cm.
  • Backpacking with heavy packs: stout shafts and secure locks.

UK price and where to buy

Expect around £145 per pair in the UK. Commonly stocked by specialist outdoor and snow retailers in both Small and Large sizes; pick your range to suit height and intended winter use. The supplied hook‑and‑loop strap keeps folded sections tidy in your pack.

8. Helinox Passport TL120 — best compact Z-fold for travel

Looking for a travel‑friendly pole that actually fits inside a daypack or suitcase? The Helinox Passport TL120 is a featherweight, compact option that’s still tough enough for UK paths and peak days. It packs short, feels planted, and keeps faff to a minimum — exactly what you want from one of the best trekking poles UK hikers can take on trains and planes.

Why we picked it

On test it proved impressively light at around 190g per pole, with comfortable EVA foam grips that extend down the shaft for steep climbs. It collapses compactly for stowage and offers height adjustment to suit most users. Downsides? It’s pricey, the handle/strap padding could be plusher, and very tall walkers may find it a touch short.

Key specs and weight

A compact, lightweight spec focused on easy travel and everyday hill use.

Spec Detail
Weight 380g per pair (190g each)
Packed length ~53cm (collapsed)
Construction Adjustable aluminium design
Grips EVA foam with extended lower section
Best for Hiking and running; travel‑friendly pack size

Best for

  • Carry‑on travel: short collapsed length slips inside most daypacks.
  • UK day hikes: light in hand, sturdy under vertical load.
  • Occasional runs/fast hikes: minimal weight without complexity.

UK price and where to buy

Typically around £160 per pair. Commonly stocked by specialist UK outdoor retailers; watch for seasonal promos to shave a few pounds off RRP.

9. Fizan Compact — best ultralight on a budget

If you’re counting grams but don’t want to empty your wallet, the Fizan Compact is a gem. At just 169g per pole it’s genuinely ultralight, yet it costs a fraction of most carbon options. The compromises are sensible for UK hills: a twist‑lock mechanism and a longer 60cm collapsed length, but performance‑per‑pound is hard to beat among the best trekking poles UK hikers can buy on a budget.

Why we picked it

We rate the Fizan for delivering true ultralight weight at a realistic price (typically ~£70). The aluminium 7001 shaft feels sturdier than you’d expect, the foam grip is comfy, and carbide tips bite well on wet rock. Downsides? Twist‑locks need occasional care and can wear, there’s no extended grip, and the 60cm pack size isn’t the most compact. Still, for fast hikers on a budget, it’s a standout.

Key specs and weight

A minimalist build focused on low weight without luxury frills.

Spec Detail
Weight 169g per pole
Adjustment 100–132cm
Collapsed length 60cm
Shaft material Aluminium 7001
Locking Twist‑lock
Grip EVA foam (no extended section)
Tips Carbide
RRP ~£80.50 (pair)

Best for

  • Budget gram‑counters: ultralight feel at a sensible price.
  • Long mileage days: efficient swing weight reduces arm fatigue.
  • General UK hillwalking: solid vertical load support on paths and ridges.
  • Not ideal for heavy side‑loads, scrambling abuse or those who need a short packed length.

UK price and where to buy

Expect £70–£80 per pair in the UK, with periodic discounts. Widely available via major outdoor retailers and marketplaces; shop around for colourways and bundles to snag the best price.

10. Leki Cressida FX Carbon Lady — best women’s-specific

A women’s‑specific, Z‑folding carbon set with a shorter length range, compact 40cm fold and smaller, sculpted grips. For shorter hikers moving fast on British hills, it blends comfort with quick deployment and a reassuringly stable plant.

Why we picked it

We rate the Cressida FX Carbon Lady for its rapid ELD fold, well‑balanced stiffness and Aergon Air cork grips with a rubberised head that’s comfy on descents. At 245g per pole and adjustable 100–120cm, it’s light yet confidence‑inspiring. Taller users should consider the Makalu FX Carbon (men’s) with 110–130cm.

Key specs and weight

Here are the essentials at a glance.

Spec Detail
Weight (per pole) 245g
Adjustment 100–120cm
Folded length 40cm (Z‑fold)
Construction 5‑section carbon fibre, ELD folding system
Grip Aergon Air cork with rubberised head
What’s included Neat storage bag (per LFTO testing)

Best for

Ideal for hikers who value precise fit and compact pack size.

  • Shorter hikers wanting a premium, compact pole for UK mountain days
  • Mixed routes with path walking plus brief hands‑on sections
  • Travel and hut‑to‑hut where a 40cm fold matters

UK price and where to buy

Typical UK price sits around £169 (RRP £200). Widely stocked by major outdoor retailers. If fit, speed and packability are priorities, this is among the best trekking poles UK women can buy.

11. Vango Basho — best under £35

If you just need a tough, simple pole for weekend walks, the Vango Basho is the budget pick that does the basics well. It’s heavier and packs long, but the built‑in anti‑shock softens impacts on hard paths and the flip‑locks are easy to live with. For the lowest price bracket, it’s one of the best trekking poles UK newcomers can start with.

Why we picked it

Testers rated it excellent value for casual hillwalking: sturdy aluminium sections, tool‑free clamp tension and a noticeably cushioned feel on descents. Build quality isn’t premium and the anti‑shock isn’t ideal for technical terrain, but for under £35 the performance is hard to fault.

Key specs and weight

A quick look at the essentials.

Spec Detail
Weight 560g per pair
Construction 3‑section telescopic aluminium, plastic clamps
Locking Flip/lever locks with tool‑free tension
Adjustment 105–135cm
Packed length 67cm (not very compact)
Feature Built‑in anti‑shock (pronounced bounce)

Best for

  • Budget day hikes and UK hillwalking on paths and tracks
  • Long, hardpack descents where anti‑shock reduces fatigue
  • Occasional users/loaner poles needing easy adjustments

UK price and where to buy

Commonly £30–£35 per pair in the UK. Widely available through mainstream outdoor retailers and marketplaces. If you’re stretching a tight budget, this is the sensible starter set.

How we tested these trekking poles

We put every set through real UK hill days, from wet, rocky paths in Snowdonia to steep, technical ground in the Lake District and long, windy traverses in the Scottish Highlands. Poles were used on day hikes, fastpacking outings and multi‑day treks, with and without gloves, and to pitch trekking‑pole shelters. Our aim: find the best trekking poles UK walkers can trust in rain, bog, gritstone and snow.

  • Deployment and adjustment: speed to deploy/fold, on‑trail fine‑tuning.
  • Grip and control: wet/dry hold, comfort on long descents.
  • Stability and shock: tip traction on rock/tarmac; anti‑shock where fitted.
  • Locks and durability: clamp security, slippage resistance, wear over time.
  • Carry and packability: folded length, stow on vests/packs and in luggage.
  • Weight and balance: swing feel versus sturdiness under load.
  • Cold‑weather use: basket swaps, glove‑friendly controls, winter readiness.

How to choose the right trekking poles

Start with fit, then match the pole to how and where you hike. First, size the pole: with your elbow at 90°, note the distance to the ground; choose an adjustable model that can go 5–10cm shorter for climbs and 5–10cm longer for descents. Then decide if you prioritise sturdiness for British rock and bog, or minimal weight and pack size. The best trekking poles UK hikers end up loving are the ones that suit their terrain, tempo and gloves-on reality.

  • Format: choose telescopic (broadly the most versatile), Z‑fold (packs very short, deploys fast) or fixed length (lightest, simplest).
  • Material: aluminium for durability and value; carbon for lower weight and stiffness but greater care with side loads.
  • Locks: flip/lever locks are glove‑friendly and secure; twist‑locks save grams but need more maintenance.
  • Grips/straps: cork for sweat management, foam for soft comfort (even when wet), rubber for durability; look for an extended lower grip and shaped, adjustable straps.
  • Weight & pack length: ultralight is ~110–230g per pole; standard around 250g; heavy‑duty 270g+. Shorter packed lengths stow better on vests and trains.
  • Tips & baskets: carbide/tungsten tips for traction; carry rubber feet for roads/travel; fit larger baskets for mud and snow. Anti‑shock can ease long hardpack descents.
  • Practical checks: max length for tarp/tent pitching, glove operation of clamps, and how the poles attach to your pack.

Next, we break down the key choices you’ll face in UK hills, starting with materials.

Aluminium vs carbon: what’s best for UK hills?

Choosing between aluminium and carbon comes down to how hard you are on your kit. Carbon poles are lighter and stiffer, helping on long days and fast hikes, but they cost more and can snap under horizontal pressure if levered on rock. Aluminium poles are a touch heavier yet cheaper and generally more durable, shrugging off knocks and bending forces common on scrambly, bog‑studded UK terrain. For many walkers chasing the best trekking poles UK stores stock, match material to use case rather than the spec sheet.

  • Pick aluminium if: you carry a heavy pack, hike rocky routes, want maximum durability or value (e.g., Harrier Catbells V2, Vango Basho, Robens Grasmere).
  • Pick carbon if: you prioritise low weight and pace on established trails (e.g., Leki Skytera FX Carbon SL, Craghoppers Treklite Carbon, Komperdell C3 Cloud Compact).
  • Smart middle ground: reinforced or hybrid builds add toughness without huge weight gains (e.g., MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon with Kevlar; Highlander Tiree Pro with carbon/aluminium mix).

Flip-lock vs twist-lock: which is more reliable?

On wet, gritty UK hills, flip/lever locks are typically more reliable than twist-locks. They’re easier to operate with gloves, quicker to fine‑tune, and less prone to slipping — think MSR’s hand‑adjustable DynaLock or Silva’s tool‑free dials. Twist‑locks can save a few grams and look sleeker, but they’re more susceptible to creep and grit ingress, and need more maintenance (as budget‑ultralight options like the Fizan Compact demonstrate). If you want the best trekking poles UK walkers can trust in mixed conditions, go flip‑lock.

  • Choose flip‑lock if: you hike in rain/cold, carry heavier loads, adjust often, or value glove‑friendly security.
  • Choose twist‑lock if: you prioritise the lowest weight and are diligent about cleaning, drying and re‑tensioning.

Fixed-length, telescopic or Z-fold?

Pick the format that fits how you actually hike. For most UK walkers, a sturdy telescopic pair is the safest all‑rounder for rocky paths, boggy trods and tarp pitching. If you’re squeezing kit onto trains or a running vest, a Z‑fold that packs tiny is bliss. Racing or counting every gram? Fixed‑length poles are the lightest and simplest. Choose the style that helps you use the best trekking poles UK conditions will let you carry everywhere.

  • Fixed‑length: lightest, no locks to fail; rock‑solid feel. Needs spot‑on sizing and stows less neatly (think Catbells Pro).
  • Telescopic: most versatile; broad adjustability (great for climbs/descents and shelters) but longer packed length (e.g., 57–69cm).
  • Z‑fold: fastest to deploy and packs shortest (often 35–43cm/40cm). Ideal for travel, fastpacking, and vests; usually pricier.

Grip materials, straps and handle shape

Comfort starts at the handle. In UK rain and sweat, cork grips manage moisture superbly and stay pleasant on long days; EVA foam is softer and, as our tests with Craghoppers showed, can keep its grip when wet; rubber is durable but heavier and can feel tacky in heat. Look for extended lower grips to “choke down” on steep ascents, and a rounded or rubberised head (as on Leki’s Aergon Air) that sits nicely in the palm for braking on descents. Straps should be shaped, easily adjustable and padded; smaller hands may prefer women’s‑specific or compact grips.

  • Choose cork: best sweat and rain management for long UK hill days.
  • Choose foam: soft feel, reliable wet grip, great value.
  • Choose rubber: toughest, but heavier and warmer on the hand.
  • Get an extended grip: quicker height changes without re‑adjusting locks.
  • Mind grip size: smaller hands suit compact/women’s grips; chunky grips (e.g., some Silva) may feel big.
  • Straps matter: look for padded, shaped, glove‑friendly adjusters to reduce wrist fatigue.

Weight, sizing and height adjustment

Weight drives fatigue and confidence. As a rule, ultralight poles are ~110–230g per pole for fastpacking and running; around 250g is a great everyday sweet spot; 270g+ feels sturdier for winter loads and rough ground. Also consider packed length: sub‑45cm Z‑folds carry better on vests and trains, while 57–69cm telescopics suit most rucksacks. For the best trekking poles UK hikers can buy, match weight to pace and terrain rather than the spec sheet alone.

Set your base size with your elbow at 90°, then tweak for gradient and conditions. Quick, repeatable adjustments make long days feel easier.

  • Flat ground: forearm horizontal, wrist neutral.
  • Climbs: shorten by 5–10cm to avoid shoulder lift.
  • Descents: lengthen by 5–10cm for braking and balance.
  • Trail running: set 2–5cm shorter and leave it.
  • Height range: taller walkers benefit from 140cm+ max; smaller hikers should ensure a 100cm (or lower) minimum.
  • Shelters: verify your tent/tarp’s required pole height before you buy.
  • Consistency: mark your “flat” setting on the shaft for fast changes with gloves.

Tips, baskets and accessories for UK conditions

From gritstone pavements to peat hags and winter neve, the right tips and baskets make a bigger difference than most realise. Carbide/tungsten tips give reliable bite on wet rock; rubber tip covers quieten poles on tarmac and protect luggage. Use small trekking baskets for most months, then switch to larger snow baskets for deep mud and winter days. Carry spares: many poles screw baskets on/off, and brands like Leki back parts availability for years. A simple hook‑and‑loop strap keeps Z‑fold sections tidy in your pack, and is included with some sets. Dial these details and even the best trekking poles UK hillwalkers buy will work harder for you.

  • Hard tips: Tungsten/carbide for year‑round traction on rock and trails.
  • Rubber tip covers: For road sections, indoor areas and flights; reduce wear and noise.
  • Baskets: Trekking size for most UK trails; fit larger snow baskets for bog and winter.
  • Included kits: Some poles ship with both baskets (e.g., MSR) and rubber covers (e.g., Craghoppers).
  • Pack straps: Use a hook‑and‑loop band to bundle folded sections and stop rattling.

Do you need one pole or two?

For most UK hillwalkers, two poles are best: you’ll get noticeably better balance on greasy descents, more drive on climbs and a more even load through hips, knees and ankles. A pair also keeps rhythm over bog and broken ground and is ideal for pole‑supported shelters. One pole can still work on easy paths if you want a free hand (map, camera, dog lead), but switch sides regularly to avoid muscular imbalance.

  • Go two: heavy packs, rough or winter terrain, long descents, tarp/tent pitching.
  • Go one: mellow trails, scrambling sections, keeping a hand free; swap sides often.
  • Runners/fastpackers: two light Z‑folds for propulsion and stability.

Care, maintenance and repairs

A little care keeps your poles quiet, grippy and safe for years. After muddy UK days, rinse grit from locks, tips and basket threads, then air‑dry fully before storage. Check clamp tension periodically and carry a mini driver or coin if your levers need a tweak; clean, don’t lubricate, the locking surfaces. For Z‑folds, keep the cord and joints free of grit and dry them unfolded.

  • Post‑hike: rinse, wipe, dry; store uncompressed and unclamped.
  • Locks: re‑tension flip‑locks; keep twist‑locks clean and bone dry to prevent creep.
  • Tips/baskets: replace worn carbide tips; swap/retighten baskets seasonally.
  • Shafts: minor aluminium bends can be nursed home; retire cracked carbon.
  • Field fixes: splint a damaged section with a tent peg and tape to exit safely.
  • Spares: many brands sell tips, baskets and sections; Leki supports parts/repairs for up to 10 years. Look after the best trekking poles UK hills deserve, and they’ll look after you.

UK retailers, price bands and warranty tips

In the UK, you’ll find solid selections at specialist outdoor retailers (e.g., Ellis Brigham, Absolute Snow, Ultralight Outdoor Gear), big chains (Go Outdoors, Blacks), brand sites (Craghoppers, Harrier) and marketplaces. Typical price bands: entry £25–£40 (great for occasional use), value £60–£90 (light, reliable all‑rounders), mid £120–£160 (durable, year‑round picks), premium £170–£200+ (ultralight or specialist winter). Watch for member pricing and seasonal sales. If you’re hunting the best trekking poles UK deals can offer, shop around model‑by‑model.

  • Check spares and repairs: Leki offers parts/repairs for up to 10 years.
  • Prioritise aftercare: baskets, tips and sections should be replaceable.
  • Verify returns windows: useful if sizing/packed length isn’t right.
  • Compare real weights and packed lengths: retailers sometimes round figures.
  • Buy once, cry once: for winter use/heavy packs, step up a price tier.

Final thoughts

Pick poles that match how you actually hike: terrain, pace and pack weight. Our 11 tested picks cover everything from budget aluminium workhorses to ultralight Z‑fold carbons and winter‑ready sets. If you’re unsure, prioritise fit, reliable flip‑locks, sensible packed length and the right baskets for British mud and snow. Use the buying guide above to sanity‑check materials, grips and adjustment before you hit buy.

Ready to upgrade? Shortlist two or three from the list, compare real weights and pack sizes, then choose the pair you’ll reach for on every walk. For starter bundles, spare baskets and seasonal deals, you can browse essentials at Take a Hike UK and get them delivered before your next outing.

You have successfully subscribed!