Collapsible telescopic trekking and mountaineering poles have gone from being a product for the older or infirm low level walker, to a staple piece of mountain kit, commonly used by a high percentage of mountain activists – and anyone who has used them in anger will know why!

Trekking poles not only provide extra stability on soft or uneven terrain, they vastly decrease the amount stress taken by the lower body, and in particular the knees, especially when carrying heavy loads over long periods.

For serious mountain use throughout the year, we recommend the ‘flick-lock’ or ‘avalanche probe’ style closure/locking mechanism, as this tends to be more durable, and far easier to operate with gloved hands. Poles vary from two to three piece sectioned units. Whilst the two section poles can be lighter, the three sectioned poles tend to be more adjustable and compact, and therefore better for storing in/on your rucksack. Trekking poles are always more effective when used as a pair.