How to Choose the Perfect Hiking Stick: A Complete Guide for 2025

When it comes to hiking, bringing the right hiking gear can make all the difference in ensuring a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable journey. One essential item that often goes overlooked is the hiking stick. Whether you're navigating rugged terrain, balancing your weight on uneven ground, or simply looking to reduce strain on your joints, a good hiking stick can provide much-needed support. 

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the perfect hiking stick in 2025. From material options to adjustable features, you'll find all the expert advice you need to select the best hiking stick for your adventures. Therefore, we invite you to keep reading to ensure your next hike is as smooth and efficient as possible.

So, without further ado, let’s get started…

What Are Hiking Sticks?

Hiking sticks, also called trekking poles, are tools designed to provide extra support and balance while hiking. Their primary purpose is to assist hikers in maintaining balance and stability on uneven or rugged terrains. They help distribute body weight more evenly, reducing the risk of slips and falls while navigating challenging landscapes. 

Whether you're trekking uphill, crossing streams, or walking on rocky paths, hiking sticks provide essential support throughout your hike.

Benefits of Using Hiking Sticks

• Enhances Stability: Hiking sticks provide additional contact points with the ground, which improves balance, especially on rocky, uneven, or slippery terrain. They are particularly helpful for hikers who may have stability issues or are traversing steep inclines or declines.

• Reduces Joint Strain: By redistributing body weight, hiking sticks help reduce pressure on the knees, hips, and lower back. This is especially beneficial when descending hills, where your joints bear more impact. They absorb much of the shock from each step, helping to prevent fatigue and discomfort.

• Increases Endurance: With the assistance of hiking sticks, hikers can engage their upper body muscles, helping to share the load with the legs. This reduces overall fatigue and increases stamina, especially during long hikes.

• Improves Posture: Using trekking poles encourages better posture while walking, helping to keep the back straight and shoulders relaxed. This can reduce muscle strain and improve overall comfort during a hike.

• Enhances Safety: Trekking poles can be lifesavers in tricky conditions, such as crossing streams, navigating snow or mud, or climbing rocky terrain. They provide extra support, helping prevent slips and falls.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing Hiking Sticks

Choosing the right hiking sticks can make a significant difference in your comfort, stability, and performance on the trail. Below are the key features you should consider to ensure you select the best trekking poles for your needs:

1. Weight

When choosing hiking sticks, the weight is a crucial factor to consider. The weight of your trekking poles can significantly impact your comfort and endurance during long hikes. Lightweight hiking sticks are easier to carry and won't add unnecessary strain to your arms and shoulders, especially on challenging terrain.

Why It Matters:

A lighter hiking stick reduces fatigue over time, allowing you to maintain energy throughout your hike. Most importantly, on longer treks or when carrying additional gear, reducing the weight of your equipment can make a noticeable difference in your overall hiking experience.

What to Look For:

• Material: Carbon fiber poles are typically lighter but more expensive, while aluminum poles are heavier but more durable.

• Weight per Pole: Look for poles that are light enough to reduce fatigue but strong enough to support your body weight on rough terrain.

• Adjustability: Consider poles that are adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune their weight distribution based on the terrain and your personal preference.

Choosing the right weight ensures that you maintain energy and comfort without compromising on the strength or stability of your hiking sticks.

2. Adjustability

Adjustability is a vital feature when selecting hiking sticks, as it allows you to customize the length of your poles for different terrains and activities. These poles are versatile and can be easily modified to suit your height, walking style, and the steepness of the trail, providing optimal comfort and performance.

Why It Matters:

Having adjustable poles ensures that you can adapt to varying conditions. 

For example, you may want shorter poles when climbing steep inclines and longer poles when trekking downhill or walking on flat ground. Adjustable hiking sticks also make it easier to store and transport your poles when not in use.

What to Look For:

• Locking Mechanism: Look for a secure and reliable locking system (e.g., twist-lock, clamp-lock) that prevents the poles from slipping or collapsing during use.

• Range of Adjustment: Ensure the poles can be adjusted to a length that suits your height and preferred stride. Most poles have an adjustable range between 100cm to 135cm.

• Ease of Adjustment: Choose poles with easy-to-use adjustment mechanisms that allow for quick and hassle-free length changes during your hike.

Adjustable hiking sticks provide flexibility, making them a great choice for hikers who want to tailor their gear to different conditions, enhancing both comfort and efficiency.

3. Grip Comfort

Grip comfort is an essential factor when choosing hiking sticks, as it directly affects how comfortable and secure your hands feel during long hikes. A good grip will reduce the risk of blisters, hand fatigue, and slippage, providing you with better control and stability on the trail. 

Here are the most common grip materials:

• Cork Grips: Cork conforms to the shape of your hand over time and provides a natural, ergonomic feel. It wicks away sweat, ensuring a secure hold even during warmer weather. Cork is particularly beneficial for long hikes.

• Foam Grips: These are soft and cushioning, providing a comfortable grip for extended hikes. Foam is lightweight and absorbs sweat, but it may not perform as well in wet conditions as cork or rubber.

• Rubber Grips: Rubber offers a non-slip grip and is perfect for cold weather because it provides some insulation. However, rubber can get sweaty and uncomfortable during hot weather, so it's best for colder climates or when you need extra grip in slippery conditions.

When considering grip comfort, also take into account the shape and length of the grip. Look for a grip that fits comfortably in your hand and allows you to maintain a relaxed hold. 

Furthermore, some trekking poles even feature an extended grip area for added versatility. Thus, allowing you to adjust your pole length during the hike without re-locking the mechanism. 

By considering these key features(weight, adjustability, and grip comfort), you can choose the hiking sticks that best suit your needs, enhancing your stability, comfort, and overall hiking experience.

Tips For Choosing the Right Material for Your Hiking Stick 

The material of your hiking sticks plays a crucial role in their performance, weight, and durability. Different materials offer distinct advantages and drawbacks depending on your hiking needs. 

Here’s what you need to know to choose the best material for your trekking poles:

1. Carbon Fiber

Advantages:

• Best For: Long-distance hikers, weight-conscious trekkers

• Lightweight: Carbon fiber trekking poles are incredibly light, making them ideal for long-distance hikes where reducing fatigue is essential.

• Shock Absorption: Carbon fiber naturally absorbs shock, which helps reduce strain on your joints and muscles, especially on hard surfaces.

• Strength: Despite their lightness, carbon fiber poles are strong and can handle a fair amount of wear and tear.

Disadvantages:

• Cost: Carbon fiber poles tend to be more expensive than aluminum poles.

• Brittleness: While strong, carbon fiber can be more prone to breaking under high stress or impact, such as if you fall or drop the poles on rocky terrain.

Tip: Choose carbon fiber poles if you want a lightweight option for easy handling and comfort on long hikes. However, if you're hiking in rugged or extreme conditions, you may want to consider other materials for durability.

2. Aluminum

Advantages:

• Best For: Budget-conscious hikers, those in rugged environments

• Durable: Aluminum poles are highly durable and resistant to impact, making them ideal for rough, rocky terrain.

• Affordable: Generally more affordable than carbon fiber, aluminum poles are a great option for hikers on a budget.

• Versatile: They perform well across a wide variety of conditions, from mountain trails to forest paths.

Disadvantages:

• Heavier: Aluminum poles are heavier than carbon fiber, which can lead to more fatigue on long treks.

• Less Shock Absorption: While durable, aluminum poles do not absorb shock as well as carbon fiber, which may result in more joint strain over time.

Tip: If you're hiking in rugged terrain and need something durable and reliable without breaking the bank, aluminum is a solid choice.

3. Composite Materials

Advantages:

• Best For: Hikers seeking a balance between weight, durability, and cost

• Balanced Weight: Composite poles are often made of a mix of materials, such as fiberglass and carbon fiber, providing a good balance of lightness and strength.

• Affordability: Composite poles tend to be priced between aluminum and carbon fiber, offering a compromise between cost and quality.

• Durability: They are generally more durable than carbon fiber, especially in conditions where poles may experience a lot of bending or pressure.

Disadvantages:

• Not as Lightweight as Carbon Fiber: While they’re lighter than aluminum, composite poles are not as light as pure carbon fiber.

• May Wear Over Time: Depending on the exact materials used, some composite poles may show signs of wear quicker than carbon fiber or aluminum.

Tip: If you're looking for a balanced option, composite poles offer a great mix of lightweight performance and durability at a reasonable price.

4. Titanium

Advantages:

• Best For: Extreme conditions, long-term durability

• Strong and Lightweight: Titanium poles are incredibly strong yet lightweight, offering excellent durability without the added weight of aluminum.

• Corrosion-Resistant: Titanium is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it an excellent option for wet or humid environments.

Disadvantages:

• Expensive: Titanium poles are often the most expensive option on the market.

• Brittleness: While strong, titanium can also be more brittle and prone to snapping under extreme pressure.

Tip: Opt for titanium poles if you’re hiking in harsh conditions or need equipment that will last for many years.

Additional Components to Consider When Choosing Hiking Sticks

When selecting your hiking poles, it’s important to look beyond the main features like weight, material, and adjustability. There are several additional components that can enhance the functionality of your hiking sticks and improve your overall experience on the trail. 

Among them, below are the most often used three components worth carrying while hiking: 

1. Tips

The tips of your hiking poles are critical for traction and stability, especially on different surfaces. There are several types of tips to choose from, depending on the terrain you'll be hiking on:

• Rubber Tips: These are perfect for paved trails or indoor use as they help reduce noise and protect the environment. They offer good grip on solid, flat surfaces.

• Carbide or Steel Tips: These are designed for rocky or icy terrains, providing superior traction and durability. They are more durable than rubber tips and can grip the ground in wet, rocky, or snowy conditions.

• Mud Baskets: For softer trails, such as dirt or muddy areas, these tips can prevent the poles from sinking into the ground. They are great for springtime or wet weather hiking.

Tip: Make sure to check if your hiking poles are compatible with interchangeable tips for different conditions.

2. Baskets

Baskets are small, often circular, components attached to the base of your hiking poles that help prevent the poles from sinking too deeply into soft ground. They are especially useful in snow, sand, or mud.

• Small Baskets: Ideal for general hiking, these are lightweight and help keep poles from sinking into softer terrain.

• Large Baskets: These are great for snowshoeing or hiking in deep snow, as they provide extra surface area to keep your poles from sinking too far into the snow.

Tip: Check if the baskets are detachable, as this will allow you to switch between different sizes based on your environment.

3. Wrist Straps

Wrist straps offer additional security, ensuring that your poles don’t slip from your hands during hikes, especially when you need to take a quick rest or adjust your gear. Properly using wrist straps can also help reduce hand fatigue.

• Adjustable Wrist Straps: Ensure that the straps are comfortable and adjustable, as this can reduce pressure on your hands and wrists during longer hikes.

• Padded Straps: Padded wrist straps are designed to reduce irritation, offering extra comfort on longer treks, preventing chafing and allowing for a more secure grip.

Tip: Learn how to properly use wrist straps to distribute the weight of your body to your wrists and arms, instead of relying solely on your hands to grip the poles.

When selecting hiking poles, consider these additional components based on the conditions and length of your hike. These features can improve your comfort, stability, and overall functionality, making your trekking poles more versatile for various terrains and weather conditions.

Tips For Sizing Your Hiking Stick

The right size for your hiking stick is crucial for maximizing comfort, stability, and efficiency on the trail. If your poles are too short or too long, they can cause discomfort and strain. Here's how to determine the ideal pole length and adjust it based on the terrain.

Guidelines for Determining the Correct Pole Length

The general rule for sizing your hiking sticks is to ensure your arms are at a 90-degree angle when holding the poles. This allows you to maintain an ergonomic position, reducing stress on your wrists and shoulders. 

To get a more accurate measurement, follow these guidelines:

1. Stand Up Straight: While wearing your hiking boots and gear, stand upright and relax your arms at your sides.

2. Bend Your Elbows: With your arms bent at a 90-degree angle, hold the poles with the tips on the ground (or use your trekking poles to measure this). This angle is typically where your poles should be adjusted.

3. Measure Your Height: As a rough guide, 

• People between 5’0” and 5’7” should opt for poles that are about 100–110 cm long, 

• Taller hikers (between 5’8” and 6’2”) usually need poles around 120 cm in length,

• Individuals over 6’2” might find 130 cm poles more comfortable. Remember, these are general suggestions and personal preference plays a role.

If you're in between sizes, you might want to consider adjustable poles so you can fine-tune the length for different conditions.

How To Adjust for Different Terrains (Uphill vs. Downhill)

Once you’ve chosen the right hiking pole length, you can adjust it based on the type of terrain you're navigating. Here’s how you can adjust your trekking poles for maximum comfort and performance:

1. For Uphill Hiking: When hiking uphill, you’ll want your poles to be slightly shorter to help propel yourself forward. Shortening the poles will give you better leverage for climbing while reducing strain on your shoulders. Adjust the pole length by about 5–10 cm to make it easier to push off and take each step with stability.

2. For Downhill Hiking: On a downhill trek, your poles should be longer to provide extra stability and reduce stress on your knees and lower back. The longer poles will help distribute your body weight and reduce the impact of each downhill step. Lengthen your poles by 5–10 cm to give you more support on descents.

3. For Flat Terrain: For flat terrain, your poles should be set to the standard length based on your height (typically at the 90-degree arm angle). This ensures comfort during extended walking periods without unnecessary adjustments.

Proper pole sizing and terrain adjustments enhance your comfort and performance on the trail. Furthermore, make sure to fine-tune your poles based on the terrain for a more enjoyable hike.

Top Picks for Hiking Sticks in 2025

Choosing the right hiking stick can make a huge difference in your comfort and performance on the trail. Here are our top two picks for hiking sticks in 2025, catering to different needs, budgets, and terrains.

1. Telescoping Hiking Pole By Camp Supreme

The Telescoping Hiking Pole by Camp Supreme is designed to provide enhanced stability and support during outdoor adventures. Adjustable and lightweight, this pole is perfect for varying terrains and elevates your hiking experience with ease.

Features and Benefits

• Adjustable length for custom fit

• Lightweight design for comfort

• Anti-shock technology reduces strain

• Durable material for long-lasting use

• Ergonomic grip for a secure hold

Best For:

• Hiking, trekking, and outdoor activities

Price Range: $14.99 –$22.99 USD.

2. Adjustable Trekking Poles By Camp Supreme 

These adjustable trekking poles by Camp Supreme are designed to enhance your stability and comfort during outdoor adventures. Made with durable materials, they offer easy adjustability to suit different terrains, ensuring a personalized fit for various hiking conditions.

Features and Benefits:

• Lightweight and adjustable for versatile use

• Ergonomic grips and padded straps for comfort

• Equipped with durable carbide tips for traction

• Quick-lock mechanism for easy length adjustment

• Compact and portable when collapsed

Best For:

Hikers, trekkers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable poles for various terrains and weather conditions.

Price Range: $14.99 - $22.99 USD.

Tips For Using Your Hiking Stick Effectively

A hiking stick can significantly enhance your stability and comfort on the trail, but using it effectively requires the right technique. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your trekking poles on various terrains and while navigating obstacles.

Techniques for Proper Use on Various Terrains

1. For Flat Terrain

• Use poles to maintain a steady rhythm: On flat surfaces, use your poles for balance and to distribute weight evenly. Keep the poles at a comfortable length and plant them in front of you as you walk to maintain a consistent stride.

• Keep your elbows slightly bent: This will prevent fatigue and reduce strain on your arms and shoulders.

2. For Uphill Terrain

• Shorten your poles: When climbing uphill, shorten the length of your poles by 5-10 cm to give you better leverage. Push off with each step to help propel yourself upward.

• Use poles for balance, not weight: Focus on using the poles for stability, not to take too much pressure off your legs. Plant your poles slightly in front of you to maintain momentum.

3. For Downhill Terrain

• Lengthen your poles: Extend the length of your poles by 5-10 cm to give you more support and reduce stress on your knees. Plant the poles in front of you as you descend to maintain stability.

• Take shorter steps: Use the poles to stabilize your descent, but avoid leaning too heavily on them. Keep your steps short to control your speed and prevent injury.

4. For Rocky or Uneven Terrain

• Plant poles firmly on stable ground: When crossing rocky or uneven terrain, always make sure your poles are planted firmly before shifting your weight. This will help maintain balance and prevent slipping.

• Use the poles to test the ground: Before placing weight on your legs, use the poles to test if the ground is solid or unstable.

Tips for Navigating Obstacles Safely

When Crossing Streams or Muddy Areas

• Use your poles for support: When crossing a stream or muddy patch, plant both poles on stable ground to give you extra support. This will help you balance and prevent slipping.

• Test the depth: Before crossing a stream, use your poles to test the depth and flow of the water, ensuring it's safe to cross.

When Climbing Over Rocks or Fallen Trees

• Hold poles in one hand: When climbing over obstacles like rocks or fallen trees, hold one pole in the hand opposite your dominant hand to maintain balance. This will allow you to use your free hand for climbing or holding onto rocks.

• Use poles to stabilize yourself: Plant the poles on stable surfaces to give yourself extra stability and reduce the risk of falling.

When Navigating Steep, Loose Surfaces (e.g., gravel or scree)

• Plant your poles firmly: On loose or unstable surfaces, plant your poles with extra care to avoid them slipping. Keep your weight balanced and don’t rely too much on the poles for support on these surfaces.

• Go slowly and carefully: Take your time on steep or loose surfaces to prevent losing your footing.

By using proper techniques and adjusting your hiking stick based on terrain and obstacles, you can significantly improve your stability and reduce fatigue. Always be mindful of your surroundings and use your poles as an additional tool for safety and efficiency on the trail.  

Maintenance and Care Tips

Proper maintenance extends the life of your hiking sticks and ensures reliable performance when you need it most. 

Regular care mentioned in belor should include:

• Cleaning after each use

• Checking locking mechanisms

• Inspecting tips and baskets

• Proper storage in dry conditions

Where to Buy the Best Camping Gear for Your Outdoor Adventures in 2025

Ready to elevate your camping experience with top-quality gear? At Camp Supreme, we offer an extensive selection of essential and innovative products designed to enhance your outdoor adventures, from durable tents to comfortable camping furniture and everything in between.

Here’s why Camp Supreme is your premier destination for camping gear:

• Quality Assurance: Our products are meticulously selected to meet the highest standards of safety and durability, ensuring you have reliable gear that stands up to the elements and lasts for years to come.

• Wide Selection: We provide a diverse range of categories including Camping Furniture, Tents, Cooking & Food Supplies, Car Tents, Clothing & Footwear, Backpacking Essentials, Navigational & Survival Accessories, Outdoor Tools & Safety Gear, Sleeping Bags, and Water Gear. Whatever you need for your next adventure, we have you covered.

• Competitive Pricing: Enjoy exceptional value with our affordable prices, making it easy to gear up for your camping trips without stretching your budget.

• Customer Satisfaction: Our dedicated team is committed to providing outstanding customer service, helping you choose the perfect products for your outdoor needs and offering guidance when needed.

Therefore, we invite you to explore our range of camping gear today. Click below to visit our store and discover the perfect items for your next outdoor adventure!

[Check Our Store]

Final thoughts

Choosing the right hiking stick is an important step to ensure a comfortable and safe hiking experience. You can select a trekking pole that best suits your needs by considering key features like weight, adjustability, and grip comfort. 

Furthermore, lightweight poles are great for long hikes, while adjustable ones offer flexibility for different terrains. A comfortable grip is essential to prevent hand fatigue and blisters.

The material of your hiking sticks also plays a role in their performance. Options like carbon fiber offer lightness and durability, while aluminum provides strength at a lower cost. Other components, such as tips, baskets, and wrist straps, can add to the functionality of your hiking poles.

Ultimately, the right hiking stick can improve your stability, reduce strain on your joints, and make your time on the trail more enjoyable. Take the time to choose carefully, and your hiking experience will be much smoother and more rewarding.

Key Takeaways

• Hiking sticks improve stability on uneven terrain, reducing the risk of slips and falls while helping hikers maintain balance on rocky or steep paths.

• Trekking poles redistribute body weight, reducing strain on joints, especially when descending hills or hiking for long periods.

• Hiking sticks engage upper body muscles, reducing fatigue and increasing stamina, helping hikers go longer distances with less effort.

• The material and design of the grips, such as cork, foam, or rubber, play a crucial role in ensuring comfort, reducing hand fatigue, and preventing blisters.

• Adjustable hiking sticks allow customization of pole length for different terrains, enhancing comfort and performance, especially on inclines or declines.

• Material Choices: Carbon fiber, aluminum, composite, and titanium offer different advantages, from lightweight options for long hikes to durable materials for rough terrain, with varying price points.

• Additional components like baskets, wrist straps, and interchangeable tips for different conditions (e.g., mud, snow, rocky terrain) enhance the functionality of hiking poles.

• Correct pole length is vital for comfort and efficiency. A 90-degree elbow angle when holding the poles ensures ergonomic use and reduces strain.

• Carbon fiber poles are lightweight but expensive, while aluminum poles are more affordable and durable but heavier, making them ideal for rugged environments.

• Trekking poles contribute to better posture, reduce muscle strain, and provide added security in challenging hiking conditions, ensuring a safer and more comfortable hiking experience.

FAQs

How long should my hiking stick be? 

When standing straight, your elbow should form a 90-degree angle when holding the grip.

Are two hiking poles better than one? 

Two poles provide better balance and more upper body engagement, but personal preference plays a significant role.

How much should I spend on hiking poles? 

Quality poles typically range from $50-200, with most recreational hikers finding great options in the $80-120 range.