Hiking Poles

Best Hiking Poles in the UK: Top Picks, Where to Buy and How to Choose

Why hiking poles are a game-changer

Have you ever hiked a steep trail and wished you had an extra hand to steady yourself? That’s exactly what hiking poles do — they act like an extra set of legs, spreading load, improving balance and reducing strain on knees and hips. Whether you’re tackling a 6-mile ridge or a short riverside stroll, poles can make the difference between an “OK” day on the trail and an unforgettable one.

Key benefits of using hiking poles

Poles help you maintain rhythm, conserve energy on long walks, and increase stability over loose rock or muddy slopes. They also provide a practical advantage when crossing streams or carrying a heavy pack, allowing you to distribute weight more evenly. If you’ve got joint issues or are trying to extend your mileage, poles are one of the simplest, most cost-effective pieces of kit to add to your kitbag.

Highlighted products from RunningXpert

If you’re shopping specifically for trail- and running-focused poles, RunningXpert stocks a number of high-performance options. Two models to look out for are the Salomon Pulsar Carbon series and the Salomon Quest Carbon foldable poles. These are aimed at runners and fast hikers who want lightweight, responsive gear.

Salomon Pulsar Carbon — lightweight running poles

The Pulsar Carbon poles are built for speed. They’re feather-light — often weighing just a few ounces per pole — and designed with a slim profile. If you like to keep your pace up on fell runs or cross-country stages, carbon poles like these help transfer more power with each push while keeping carry weight to an absolute minimum.

Salomon Quest Carbon — foldable and packable

Want the benefits of carbon without the hassle of a long pole when you’re not using it? The Quest Carbon foldable poles collapse down small, fitting neatly into a daypack or even clipped to the outside. They’re ideal for mixed-terrain outings where you might switch between hands-free scrambling and active pole use.

Top UK retailers to buy hiking poles

Buying from a reputable retailer matters — you want genuine gear, good aftercare and the right advice. In the UK, a few standout places to look include specialist running and outdoor stores as well as larger outdoor chains. Below are stores worth checking out for variety and expertise.

RunningXpert

RunningXpert focuses on running and fast-packing gear, making it a great place to find lightweight, performance-oriented poles and accessories. They tend to stock models aimed at trail runners, including carbon options that emphasise low weight and quick deployment.

Cotswold Outdoor

Cotswold Outdoor is a classic choice for hillwalkers and backpackers. They offer a wide range of poles from entry-level aluminium models to high-end carbon designs. Friendly staff and good online resources help you choose a pole that matches your height and intended use.

Go Outdoors

For budget-friendly options and occasional sales, Go Outdoors is hard to beat. They stock affordable aluminium poles and mid-range carbon options, making it easier to try poles before upgrading. If you’re outfitting a family or group, their price points make experimentation less painful.

Ellis Brigham and Snow+Rock

Both Ellis Brigham and Snow+Rock cater to serious outdoor enthusiasts and climbers. Expect a curated selection of technical trekking and mountaineering poles with dependable warranties and helpful staff who understand technical specs and tip types.

Decathlon and Amazon UK

Decathlon is great for straightforward, well-designed budget poles, often with very clear size guidance. Amazon UK is useful for rapid delivery and browsing many brands at once — but do read reviews carefully and check seller credentials to avoid poor knock-offs.

Choosing the right material: carbon vs aluminium

One of the first choices you’ll make is material. Carbon poles are incredibly light and have great vibration dampening, which is ideal if you’re covering long distances or racing. Aluminium poles are tougher and less expensive, making them a sensible pick for rugged use and pack weight not being the priority.

When to pick carbon

Go carbon if you value every ounce saved and plan to move fast over long distances. Carbon poles usually weigh less than 8–10 ounces per pole and are favoured by runners and ultrawalkers. Keep in mind they can be more brittle under extreme bending forces, like when used for support in heavy falls.

When to pick aluminium

Choose aluminium for durability and value. They may weigh a few ounces more — think 12–16 ounces per pole — but they withstand knocks and accidental bending better and are easier to straighten if damaged. For most recreational hikers who might be rough on kit, aluminium is a solid, economical choice.

Length, adjustability and fitting your pole

Length matters far more than most people realise. The right pole height helps you maintain an efficient stride and reduces fatigue. Poles come in fixed lengths, adjustable telescopic sections, or foldable segmented designs. What matters is that you can set them to suit your height and the terrain.

How tall should your pole be?

A general rule is to set the pole so your elbow forms about a 90-degree angle when the grip is in your hand and the tip is on level ground. That usually translates to poles adjustable in the range of roughly 39–55 inches. If you’re between sizes, choose adjustable poles so you can tweak height for uphill and downhill uses.

Adjustable mechanisms

Flip locks and twist locks are the most common systems. Flip locks are quick and reliable in cold or muddy conditions, while twist locks can be lighter and offer a sleeker profile. Folding poles use an internal cord and snap-lock for fast opening and compact storage — ideal if you want a pole that stows away when you’re not using it.

Grip types and what feels best

Grips come in cork, foam and rubber. Cork moulds to the hand and wicks moisture, foam is light and comfortable, while rubber is durable and great for cold conditions. Try to handle a grip before buying — comfort beats specs. Also check for adjustable wrist straps that help transfer thrust into the poles rather than compressing the hand.

Trail techniques: how to use poles effectively

Using poles isn’t just about having them — it’s how you use them. Get the basics right and you’ll save energy, move faster and feel safer on sketchy ground.

Uphill technique

Shorten the pole slightly and plant it ahead of you to pull uphill. Think of them as extra arms that help you climb more efficiently, taking some weight off tired leg muscles.

Downhill technique

Lengthen the poles a touch and plant them ahead to break your descent, reducing impact on knees. On steep descents you can “brake” with the poles, planting them wide for more balance.

Crossing rivers and rough ground

Use poles as probes to check depth and stability when crossing water or bog. One pole can test the next step while the other provides balance — it’s a simple trick that keeps you safer on uncertain terrain.

What to pay for — value vs premium

Not every hiker needs the lightest carbon poles on the market. Consider how you use your poles: weekend walks, multi-day backpacking, or ultrarunning. For occasional hikers, a mid-range aluminium model delivers great value. If you’re chasing sub-1-pound poles and racing, then premium carbon may be justified.

Accessories that matter

Invest in a few key extras: mud baskets for soft ground, rubber tips for walking on pavements or hard surfaces, and spare carbide tips for rocky trails. These small pieces extend usability and protect the pole’s shaft and tip from wear.

Maintenance and care to make poles last

Like any gear, poles last longer with a little attention. After muddy or salty days, rinse with clean water and dry fully before collapsing them. Open telescopic sections occasionally to clean and lightly lubricate seals; this stops dirt from jamming locks and extends life.

Repair and replacements

Most poles have replaceable tips and baskets. If a pole shaft cracks, it’s often better to replace it — but for small issues, many shops offer repair parts. Keep receipts and register warranties where available, especially for higher-end models.

Where to try before you buy in the UK

If you’re unsure, try poles in a store or at an outdoor demo day. Cotswold Outdoor, Ellis Brigham and some RunningXpert events offer hands-on demos. Trying before you buy helps you choose grip shape, feel the weight and test lock mechanisms so you know the pole is a good fit for your style.

Online shopping tips

Buying online opens up more brands and often better prices, but read sizing guides carefully and check return windows. Look for retailers that list shaft diameters, weight per pole in ounces, and adjustable ranges in inches so you can compare accurately.

Final checklist before you buy

Before you checkout, run through a quick checklist: is the pole a size you can adjust to roughly 39–55 inches? Does the grip feel comfortable? Is the pole weight acceptable in ounces for your needs? Are tips and baskets included? Answering those questions will save buyer’s remorse and keep you on the trail instead of returning gear.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hiking poles comes down to understanding how you use them. RunningXpert and other UK retailers like Cotswold Outdoor, Go Outdoors, Ellis Brigham, Decathlon and Snow+Rock all offer options that suit different budgets and activities. Whether you opt for ultralight carbon for speed or robust aluminium for durability, the right pole will improve your stability, reduce fatigue and let you enjoy more miles with less strain. Pick the fit that feels right, grab the essential accessories, and you’ll wonder how you ever hiked without them.