Hiking pole reviews
The right pair of trekking poles can make a significant difference on long descents. Our reviews focus on build quality, weight, grip comfort and joint support.
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Best trekking poles UK 2026: tested picks for every hiker
From Jurassic Coast cliff paths to Highland ridges, the right trekking poles make a real difference on the descents. Here are the best trekking poles available in the UK right now, for every budget and hiking style.
Black Diamond Trail Explorer 3 trekking poles review: the reliable all-terrain workhorse
Three-section aluminium, FlickLock adjustability and Black Diamond build quality at a price that makes sense for most UK hikers. Here is the honest picture on the Trail Explorer 3 after real use on demanding terrain.
What to look for in trekking poles
The primary decision is material: aluminium or carbon fibre. Aluminium poles are heavier but more durable — they bend under impact rather than snap, which matters on rough terrain. Carbon fibre poles are lighter and dampen vibration better, which reduces arm fatigue over long days, but can fracture suddenly under lateral stress. For most UK day hiking, aluminium is the practical choice. Carbon makes sense for ultralight fast-hiking and long multi-day routes where carried weight is a primary concern.
Locking mechanism determines reliability. Twist-lock systems are simple and compact but can slip under load, particularly in cold or wet conditions. Lever-lock (flicklock) systems are more reliable and easy to adjust with gloves on. Most serious trekking poles now use a lever system.
Grip material affects comfort over long days. Cork grips absorb moisture and are warm to hold in cold conditions. Foam grips are softer and absorb sweat but compress over time. Rubber grips are the least comfortable for extended use but handle cold and wet better. Cork or foam is the preference for day hiking.
Tip design matters more on UK terrain than it might elsewhere. Rubber tips protect pole tips and are quieter on hard surfaces — useful on bridleways and chalk paths. Carbide tips grip better on rock and compressed earth. Most poles come with carbide tips and rubber tip covers for switching between surfaces.
Trekking poles on UK terrain
The Jurassic Coast and South West Coast Path in particular involve repeated steep ascents and descents — the kind of terrain where poles pay back their weight many times over. Knee strain on long descents is reduced significantly by poles used correctly (keeping elbows at 90 degrees, planting pole ahead of the body on descents). For anyone covering 30km+ days or who has existing knee issues, poles are strongly recommended. On flatter walking or well-maintained paths they're less essential, but many experienced walkers use them regardless.