Choosing the right gear from the vast array of walking and hiking poles can be challenging. To help you navigate the options, here is an overview of the different pole types available.
Walking poles offer clear benefits, but you need to choose poles suited to your needs to improve your performance and stay safe. With so many models and prices, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together an overview of the different types of hiking poles, walking poles and trail poles. It will help you work out what you need and find the poles best suited to your activity.
Nordic walking poles
Nordic walking poles are indispensable for the sport. They engage the upper body while providing powerful forward propulsion, reducing fatigue and conserving precious energy for greater endurance. Note that not all poles are suitable for Nordic walking; specific designs are required. Let's examine which models to choose and which to avoid for Nordic walking.
For Nordic walking, telescopic or folding poles are counterproductive. They lack the stiffness of fixed-length poles and will not deliver the crisp forward propulsion needed. Opt for single-piece poles that absorb vibrations more effectively and protect your joints. For the same reason, carbon shafts (or shafts with a high carbon percentage) are recommended, offering the added benefit of minimal swing weight.
Nordic walking poles have distinct straps that make them instantly recognisable. They typically feature gauntlet-style straps that wrap securely around the wrists with a thumb slot. These gauntlets allow for a much more powerful push-off (a major asset in trail running too).
The tips must provide both reliable traction and durability. Tungsten carbide tips are highly recommended, though steel tips also perform well. Rubber protective pads are often added. Angled pads enhance grip and forward push, follow the terrain more naturally, and dampen noise on hard surfaces.
Hiking poles
Once you start using them, you quickly realise that hiking poles are invaluable companions, especially on alpine and mountain outings. Why? Because they improve stability and safety, reducing slip and fall hazards. They distribute load efficiently (both body weight and pack weight) and recruit upper body muscles, relieving strain on the lower body. Leg and thigh muscles are spared, the back and joints are protected, and pacing becomes more consistent—allowing hikers to boost endurance and reduce long-term injury risks and fatigue.
Of course, this holds true only if the poles are suited to hiking and to the user's specific discipline—otherwise they quickly become dead weight. While picking up makeshift wooden sticks along the trail might seem tempting, purpose-built hiking poles are readily adjustable to your height and terrain, offering far superior comfort, safety, ergonomics, and packability (even if you cannot simply discard them at the roadside).
One major advantage of hiking poles is that they’re often telescopic or folding, so you can stow them in your rucksack when you don’t need them. The more sections a pole has, the less space it takes up. Choose the model that suits your needs, whether that depends on the size of your rucksack or how you carry your poles — perhaps your pack has external attachments. A telescopic pole also lets you adjust its length to negotiate obstacles, or simply lengthen it for descents and shorten it for climbs.
Another advantage is that good hiking poles combine strength with low weight. An aluminium shaft is stronger than a carbon shaft but slightly heavier. Choose the material that best suits your needs, how you’ll use the poles, your build and your experience. If you’re just starting out, prioritise strength. If you want to increase your speed and endurance, a lighter pole will reduce fatigue and effort.
The wrist straps are usually straightforward loops worn around the wrist. The grips, however, come in various materials: plastic or rubber grips tend to be less comfortable and cause sweating, whereas foam or cork grips offer far greater comfort and moisture absorption, though at a higher price point. Your choice depends on intended use, but for frequent or long outings, comfortable grips tailored to your hand size are essential.
Tip selection is critical, as tips are your direct connection to the ground. They must offer grip and hard-wearing durability. For regular use, opt for tungsten carbide tips, which are more durable though costlier than steel tips.
Trail running poles
Less common than poles used for hiking or Nordic walking, trail poles are valuable allies in the mountains. Trail runners use them to conserve energy both uphill and downhill, making them particularly useful on technical trails with major climbs. The poles take some of the load off your legs, add power to your forward drive and relieve your quadriceps. By spreading the effort more evenly and sparing your leg muscles, they help you keep going longer without losing your running rhythm. They also protect your joints by reducing shocks and impacts.
In trail running, maximum agility and lightweight design with minimal bulk are paramount. There is no time to waste fiddling with pole folding mechanisms or strap releases. Choosing purpose-designed trail poles is essential. For maximum stroke efficiency, lightness, and rigidity, single-piece poles are an option, but well-designed folding multi-section poles are generally preferred. On descents or flat stretches, they stow away easily into your running vest or pack, drastically reducing bulk. Carbon fibre offers the lowest weight, but aluminium remains a reliable, rugged choice. For grips, avoid plastic or rubber; choose between foam (lighter and superior for moisture management) and cork (more durable and comfortable). Wrist straps may feature detachable gauntlets, which boost propulsion power but can feel warm during intense efforts.
