by When looking for the best hiking poles for runners, there are few things you you need to take into account. Things like material, folded size, and grip are all important factors in choosing the right hiking poles for your next trip. So let’s take a look at the different types of trekking poles, key features, and look at the best options on the market.
Types of Hiking Poles:
There are typically two types of hiking poles, telescoping and folding (z-poles). The difference being that the telescoping poles are stored by contracting into itself while z-poles fold. Folding poles tend to be smaller when closed for storage and are preferred for running.
Material:
The two most common materials used for hiking poles are aluminum and carbon fiber. Aluminum is stronger but heavier. Carbon fiber is lighter but more fragile and more expensive.
Grip:
The two most common grip materials you will find will be EVA Foam or cork. Cork is considered higher end, absorbing sweat and preventing blisters. Cork is preferred by many hikers and runners.
Price:
You are going to notice a big difference in pricing with some of these poles. The cheaper poles on this list will work for most runners looking for poles to use every now and then. If your looking for poles to use a lot, plan on beating them up when using them, plan on using them with a pack, or are a heavier runner. Your going to need poles with a higher build quality that wont leave you stranded. Look at the higher end more trusted brands that come with life time warranties. Black Diamond and Leki are two of the most trusted brands in hiking/trail running. And have earned their higher price tag.
The Best Hiking Poles for Runners
Because we are looking at the best hiking poles for runners. We are going to be looking only at folding/z-fold poles. This is because most running bags are designed to accommodate z-fold poles. These are also priced from low to high.
Covacure Trekking Poles
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Price: $29.99
Reviews: 1,753
Rating: 4.5
Material: Aluminum
Grip: EVA Foam
Weight: 10.5oz / 298 grams
Amazon Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Trekology Trek-Z Cork Handle Trekking Hiking Poles
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Price: $39.99
Reviews: 1,425
Rating: 4.5
Material: Aluminum
Grip: Cork
Weight: 11.6oz / 330 grams
Amazon Link: Amazon Link Click Here
TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Foam Handle Trekking Hiking Poles
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Price: $39.99
Reviews: 4,631
Rating: 4.5
Material: Aluminum
Grip: EVA Foam with cork texture.
Weight: 294g / 10.4oz & 10.6oz / 306 grams
Amazon Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Equipeak Folding Trekking Poles
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Price: $43.99
Reviews: 685
Rating: 4.5
Material: Aluminum
Grip: Cork
Weight: 10.5oz / 298 grams
Amazon Link: Amazon Link Click Here
TAC9ER Ultralight Carbon Fiber Adjustable Trekking Poles with Straps
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Price: $61.99
Reviews: 185
Rating: 4.5
Material: Carbon Fiber
Grip: EVA Foam
Weight: 7.4oz / 210 grams
Amazon Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Premier Outdoor Ultra Lightweight Trekking Poles
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Price: $79.99
Reviews: 69
Rating: 4.5
Material: Carbon Fiber
Grip: Cork
Weight: 8.8oz / 249.5 grams
Amazon Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Black Diamond Distance Z Z Poles
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Price: $99.99
Reviews: 519
Rating: 4.5
Material: Carbon Fiber
Grip: EVA Foam
Weight: 6-7oz / 170-198 grams
Amazon Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Z Z-Poles
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Price: $189.99
Reviews: 15
Rating: 4.5
Material: Carbon Fiber
Grip: Cork
Weight: 8.2oz / 202.5 grams to 233 grams
Amazon Link: Amazon Link Click Here
LEKI Micro Vario Carbon Trekking Pole Pair
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Price: $199
Reviews: 127
Rating: 4.5
Material: Carbon Fiber
Grip: EVA Foam
Weight: 8.4oz / 240 grams
Amazon Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Conclusion
Choosing the right hiking poles for runners involves considering pole type, material, grip, and price. For runners, folding poles are convenient due to their compact storage. Aluminum is strong, while carbon fiber is lighter. Cork and EVA Foam are common grip materials, with cork offering added benefits.
Best options for runners vary in price:
- Affordable options include Covacure and Trekology poles.
- Middle-range choices include TREKOLOGY and Equipeak models.
- Premium options encompass TAC9ER, Premier Outdoor, Black Diamond Distance Z, Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Z, and LEKI Micro Vario.
Select your ideal hiking poles based on your needs, budget, and preferences to enhance your running experience.
