For the modern hiker, backpacker, or trail runner, every gram counts. Ultralight trekking poles are no longer a luxury but a critical piece of gear that can enhance stability, reduce joint impact, and improve overall endurance on the trail. The right pair can mean the difference between a grueling slog and an enjoyable, efficient journey through the mountains.
The market offers a vast array of options, from adjustable carbon fiber poles to minimalist fixed-length designs. This roundup cuts through the noise to present ten of the best ultralight trekking poles for 2025, focusing on weight, durability, and innovative features that serious adventurers demand. Whether you’re covering big miles on a thru-hike or tackling a technical summit, there’s a perfect pair here for you.
The Best Ultralight Trekking Poles for Your Next Adventure
- Black Diamond Distance Carbon Flz Trekking Poles
- Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles
- Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles
- Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles – Aluminum
- LEKI Black Series FX Carbon Walking Poles
- Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z 125cm Poles
- LEKI Khumbu Lite Aluminum Walking Poles
- Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
- Komperdell Ridgehiker Cork Powerlock Pole
- Gossamer Gear LT5 Carbon Trekking Poles
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Flz Trekking Poles
For those who need versatility without the weight penalty, the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Flz poles are a top contender. They feature an easy-adjustable 100% carbon fiber shaft with a unique speed-cone deployment system, allowing for quick length changes on the go. This makes them ideal for varying terrain where you might need to shorten poles for an ascent or lengthen them for a descent.
Weighing a mere 170 grams per pole, they are incredibly lightweight for a collapsible and adjustable model. Available in multiple adjustable size ranges, they can accommodate a wide variety of user heights. Backed by Black Diamond’s trusted 2-year warranty, these poles are built for performance and reliability on running and hiking trails.
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles
If your primary concern is absolute minimum weight and packability, the fixed-length Distance Carbon Z poles are an excellent choice. These poles shed weight by forgoing adjustment mechanisms, resulting in an astonishingly low weight of 140 grams per pole. Their foldable Z-pole design allows them to collapse into a compact bundle that easily stows in a pack.
Constructed from 100% carbon fiber, they offer a fantastic balance of stiffness and shock absorption for a responsive feel on the trail. Available in several fixed lengths, they are perfect for runners and fastpackers who know their ideal pole size and prioritize speed and efficiency above all else.
Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles
For more demanding backpacking and mountaineering trips where reliability is key, the Alpine Carbon Cork poles are a premium selection. They boast 100% carbon fiber shafts for a lightweight yet strong build that can handle heavier loads and more technical use. The classic three-section adjustable design provides a familiar and trusted feel.
The highlight for many is the comfortable grip system, featuring a 100% natural cork handle that molds to your hand over time and an extended EVA foam grip for different hand positions. This combination provides superior comfort and moisture management on long, sweaty days in the mountains.
Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles – Aluminum
Cascade Mountain Tech offers incredible value with these reliable aluminum trekking poles. They provide a robust and durable option for hikers who want performance without a significant investment. The adjustable locks allow the poles to expand up to 54 inches, making them suitable for a wide range of user heights.
While slightly heavier than carbon fiber alternatives, the aluminum construction can take a beating and is perfect for rocky trails and beginner hikers building their gear collection. They include essential features like comfortable grips and adjustable wrist straps, delivering solid performance for most hiking scenarios.
LEKI Black Series FX Carbon Walking Poles
LEKI’s Black Series FX Carbon poles combine a sleek, all-black aesthetic with serious trail performance. The carbon construction maintains a remarkably low weight—around half a pound per pair—while providing the rigidity needed for confident support. Their stylish design doesn’t compromise on function.
These poles are adjustable from 110 to 130 cm with a single Speed Lock 2 Plus switch, making adjustments quick and secure. They collapse into three compact sections for easy transport. For the hiker who values both looks and engineering, these LEKI poles are a compelling option.
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z 125cm Poles
This specific fixed-length model from Black Diamond is ideal for taller users or those who prefer a 125cm pole. It shares all the benefits of the Distance Carbon Z line, including the ultra-lightweight 140-gram weight and the compact, foldable design. The fixed-length construction eliminates potential failure points and minimizes weight.
Like its siblings, it is built from 100% carbon fiber, offering a responsive and efficient transfer of energy with every pole plant. It’s a dedicated tool for runners and hikers who have dialed in their preferred pole length and want a no-fuss, high-performance option.
LEKI Khumbu Lite Aluminum Walking Poles
The LEKI Khumbu Lite poles are a robust and fully adjustable option for hikers who prioritize durability. Made from a lightweight yet strong aluminum alloy, these poles are designed to handle tough hikes and provide reliable support in various mountain conditions. Their construction offers peace of mind on rocky and uneven terrain.
They feature a wide adjustment range from 100 to 135 cm, secured by dual Speed Lock Plus switches for a safe and solid fit at any length. This makes them a versatile choice for sharing among family members or for adapting to different trail demands during a single outing.
Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
Foxelli poles are a popular choice for offering premium features at an accessible price point. They are constructed from 100% carbon fiber, weighing just 7.6 ounces per pole, which helps reduce fatigue on long backpacking trips. The comfortable cork grips are designed to conform to your hand, while extended EVA foam sleeves provide a secure hold.
These poles use easy-to-use lever locks for quick and secure adjustments from 24 to 54 inches, making them suitable for a wide range of users. They are built with load-bearing stability in mind, ensuring the locks hold firm under pressure. This combination of comfort, adjustability, and strength makes them a great all-arounder.
Komperdell Ridgehiker Cork Powerlock Pole
Komperdell brings European engineering to the trail with the Ridgehiker model. Weighing 580 grams for the pair, these three-section poles offer a solid and reliable feel. The cork grip provides excellent comfort and moisture-wicking properties, which is beneficial during long, strenuous hikes.
Equipped with Komperdell’s trusted Powerlock locking mechanism, these poles ensure a secure extension every time. They are a sturdy choice for hikers who value a traditional pole design with proven components and ergonomic handling on all types of terrain.
Gossamer Gear LT5 Carbon Trekking Poles
Gossamer Gear is a favorite among ultralight purists, and the LT5 Carbon poles are a testament to their philosophy. These poles are designed with one primary goal: to be as light as possible without sacrificing essential performance. They often feature a minimalist design that appeals to thru-hikers and those looking to shave every possible ounce from their pack weight.
While specific features can vary, you can expect high-quality carbon fiber construction and a simple, effective adjustment system. The LT5s are for the hiker who has mastered their gear list and is seeking the ultimate lightweight trekking pole solution for fast and long-distance travel on the trail.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Your Ultralight Trekking Poles
As someone who spends a lot of time on the trail, I know that every ounce in my pack matters. That is why choosing the right ultralight trekking poles is a decision I take seriously. It is not just about finding the lightest pair; it is about finding the perfect balance of weight, durability, and features that suit my hiking style. If you are looking for the 10 best ultralight trekking poles [2025], you should first understand what makes a pole worth carrying.
The first thing I consider is the material. Carbon fiber poles are the champions of light weight and are fantastic at reducing trail vibration, which is easier on my joints. They can be more expensive and have a reputation for being more brittle than aluminum, snapping under a sharp sideways impact. Aluminum poles, on the other hand, are generally tougher and more budget-friendly, but they weigh a bit more. For most of my thru-hiking, I lean towards high-quality carbon fiber for that sweet weight savings.
Next, I look at the locking mechanism. The two main types are flick locks (external lever locks) and twist locks. In my experience, flick locks are more reliable and easier to adjust, especially with cold hands or when they are muddy. They provide a very secure lock. Twist locks can be lighter and sleeker, but they have a tendency to slip or become difficult to adjust over time if grit gets inside. For reliability, my preference is almost always a good flick lock system.
Then there is the handle and grip material. Cork is my personal favorite because it conforms to the shape of my hand over time and handles sweat well. Foam is also excellent for sweat absorption and is very comfortable to hold. Rubber grips are durable and good in cold weather but can make my hands sweaty on warm days. I always check the shape of the grip too; an ergonomic design makes a big difference on long descents.
I also think about collapsibility. Three-section poles are the standard and offer a good mix of packed size and stability. Z-poles, which fold down small using shock cords, are often the lightest and most packable, making them great for fast-and-light missions where I might not always need them in my hands. However, they can be less adjustable and sometimes less robust than standard three-section poles.
Finally, do not forget the basket and tip. Most poles come with small, removable trekking baskets suitable for general trail use. If I am planning trips involving snow, I make sure the poles have compatible powder baskets available. The carbide tips are essential for traction on rock and ice, and having durable tip protectors for travel is a small feature I really appreciate.
FAQ
Are ultralight trekking poles durable enough for rough terrain?
This is a very common concern, and from my use, the answer is a qualified yes. Modern carbon fiber composites are incredibly strong for their weight. While it is true that aluminum poles may bend under a heavy impact where carbon fiber could snap, the engineering in today’s top-tier ultralight poles is impressive. They are designed to handle the rigors of the trail. I have used my carbon poles on rocky scrambles and root-filled paths without issue. The key is to choose a model from a reputable brand known for its construction quality.
How much should I expect to pay for a good pair of ultralight poles?
You can find a solid range, but you generally get what you pay for. Entry-level aluminum ultralight poles might start around $80 to $100 a pair. High-performance carbon fiber poles from leading brands typically sit in the $150 to $250 range. While that is a significant investment, I view it as paying for reduced fatigue over thousands of steps and increased reliability. It is one of those pieces of gear where the cost per use becomes very low if you hike regularly.
What is the real weight difference between aluminum and carbon fiber?
The difference is noticeable. For a typical pair of three-section poles, aluminum models often weigh between 16 to 20 ounces (454 to 567 grams). A comparable carbon fiber pair can easily shave off 4 to 6 ounces (113 to 170 grams), bringing them down to the 12 to 16 ounce (340 to 454 gram) range or even less. When you are swinging them with every step, that few ounces makes a real difference in arm fatigue over a long day. This weight saving is a core reason people seek out the 10 best ultralight trekking poles [2025].
Can I use trekking poles with a single-wall tent?
Absolutely, and it is one of my favorite ways to save more weight! Many modern single-wall and trekking pole tents are specifically designed to use your poles as the primary structure instead of including dedicated tent poles. This eliminates duplicate weight from your pack. Just make sure to check the required pole length for your specific tent model before you buy, as some designs need a minimum length that not all adjustable poles can achieve.
Should I get adjustable or fixed-length poles?
For most people, I strongly recommend adjustable poles. The ability to shorten your poles on a steep ascent and lengthen them for a descent is a huge benefit for efficiency and knee relief. Fixed-length poles, like many Z-poles, are super light and simple, but they lack this versatility. I reserve fixed-length poles for known, consistent terrain where I am sure of the perfect length, or for fast-paced races where every second counts.
How do I know what length to set my trekking poles to?
A good starting rule is to set the pole so your elbow is at a 90-degree angle when the tip is on the ground next to your foot. I like to fine-tune from there. On flat ground, having my forearms parallel to the ground feels right. When going uphill, I shorten them a bit, and when going downhill, I lengthen them for better stability and to reduce impact on my knees. It is a personal feeling, so do not be afraid to experiment on your first few hikes to find what is most comfortable for you.