REI Co-op Traverse Trekking Poles
These sturdy hiking poles are durable and adjust to a wide range of lengths, at the expense of weight and compactness.
Where To Buy
Pros
Wide length adjustment range
Durable aluminum lever locks + carbide tips
Comes with trekking + powder baskets
Cons
Heavy for running or thru-hiking
Collapses to about half the shortest pole length
Handles/straps not comfortable for all
Summary
If you’re looking for quality hiking poles that last a long time, these are a good value. You get high-quality lock levers, carbide tips that won’t wear down, and don’t have to buy snow baskets separately. The 7075 aluminum shafts give the poles a final weight of 1 pound 2.5 ounces (and an ounce more for the 105-140 cm size) but will also never bend or break like carbon can.
These are hiking poles. The weight and larger folded size won’t appeal to most runners or long-distance hikers. If you’re looking for a simple hiking pole that won’t let you down, try these Traverse Trekking Poles.
I didn’t want or think I needed hiking poles until having some knee trouble. I was itching to get back out on the trails but also didn’t want to risk any more knee damage. The compromise was taking hiking poles.
A thorough introduction to the ins and outs of hiking poles from someone at REI led me to these. I first used them on a steep and rocky 13er and couldn’t believe the difference they made. The made. I wasn’t even tired afterward. I estimate it reduced my effort by 25%. Using the poles transferred so much energy from the lower body to the upper body and core. That also corrected my posture from balancing myself by leaning forward to standing straight up. This also eliminated the lower back pain and foot discomfort that I felt after long hikes.
I chose these poles because the locking mechanism was secure, and I wanted a pole that would never break. I’ve had ski poles snap before and don’t want to deal with that in the backcountry. The weight and folding size were not issues because this was a day hike, and the collapsed length was fine dangling from my pack when not in use. I also thought the cork handles and straps were comfortable, even over hours of use.
I recommend hiking poles to anyone with injuries, balance issues, and hiking in challenging terrain with steep climbs and descents, large rocks, and snow or ice.
Who Should Buy?
If you’re looking for durable hiking poles with a wide height range and don’t care about size or weight.