Ultimate Guide to Choosing Trekking Poles – Ratings Explained

Partake in any trail in South Africa and it'll be impossible to miss the steady tap-tap of trekking poles. Hikers, mountaineers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike have relied on trekking poles as a trusted companion for years. Choosing the right trekking poles can make all the difference.

If you’ve ever scrolled through product pages wondering what the numbers and specs actually mean, you’re not alone.

This article aims to clarify all the complex specifications, enabling you to select the best trekking pole for your specific needs.

Construction Basics: What Trekking Poles Are Made Of

Trekking poles are made up of a few essential components: shaft, grip, tip, and basket.

The shaft is the main body of the pole. Most poles today use either aluminium, known for being tough and affordable, or carbon fibre, which is lighter and ideal for those covering long distances or needing to pack light. Naturehike’s ST10 Ultralight Carbon Pole and 3-Node Carbon Fibre Pole are good examples of lightweight options built for serious mileage.

At the top, the grip matters more than you think. Most Naturehike poles feature moisture-wicking EVA foam grips, providing a soft and comfortable hold that stays dry even in the summer heat. Some models, like the 3-Node, feature a cork grip, providing a natural feel and enhanced moisture resistance.

Pole tips are often made from carbide or tungsten steel — durable materials that provide better traction by biting into rock and trail surfaces. Some poles come with rubber tip covers and snow baskets to adapt to different ground conditions.

Features to Look Out For

When shopping for trekking poles, there are a few essential features you need to consider that depend on where and how you plan to hike.

Adjustable Length

Most modern trekking poles are either fixed-length or adjustable. Adjustable poles allow you to adjust the height to suit different terrain, shortening for steep climbs and lengthening for descents.

For general hiking, setting your poles so your elbow forms a 90° angle when the tip touches the ground is a good rule of thumb.

Collapsed Size

If portability is important, especially if you’re travelling or need to strap your poles onto a backpack, pay attention to collapsed length. A more compact pole is more straightforward to stow and carry, saving space in your pack.

For example, the ST08 Z-Fold Trekking Pole collapses down to just 360mm–400mm, making it one of the most compact options for lightweight hiking. The 3-Node Carbon Fibre Pole folds to a manageable 620mm, while still offering excellent strength and quick adjustment.

Weight

The lighter your pole, the less swing weight with every step. Poles like the ST10, weighing as little as 135g, are ideal for long-distance hikers or anyone seeking to move quickly and efficiently. However, a slightly heavier pole offers extra strength and durability for challenging off-trail missions.

Choosing the Right Pole for Your Adventure

Your choice of pole should match the type of hiking you do most often.

• For everyday hikes and weekend adventures: A versatile pole like the ST06 Carbon Aluminium Pole provides great balance between weight and strength, ideal for general trails and camping trips.

• For lightweight, fastpacking, or long treks: The ST10 Ultralight Carbon Pole or 3-Node Carbon Fibre Pole offer excellent weight savings without sacrificing support.

• For rugged, technical terrain: The tougher build of the Blackthorn Carbon Trekking Pole stands up to rockier, steeper paths where extra stability is a must.

Naturehike poles are built for South African conditions. Whether you're hiking the Drakensberg, exploring the Cederberg, or embarking on a dusty trek through the Karoo, our poles will excel in those environments.

Find the Right Trekking Pole at Naturehike Africa

Choosing a quality trekking pole is about finding a piece of hiking gear that will keep you comfortable and confident on your next journey.

Shop our full range of camping gear and hiking gear online today and get ready to enjoy every step of the trail ahead.