Adjustable vs fixed hiking poles: Which is right for you?
By: Andrew Forrest - January 2025
When it comes to hiking poles, the choice between adjustable and fixed-length models can be confusing. Both options have their merits, but understanding the differences is key to finding the right poles for your adventures.
Whether you're scaling mountains or strolling woodland trails, choosing the
right poles
can enhance your balance, reduce joint strain, and make your hike more enjoyable. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide
which type is right for you.
Table of contents
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Adjustable hiking poles: Versatility for every terrain
Adjustable hiking poles are designed with telescoping or folding mechanisms that allow you to modify their length. This feature provides
incredible versatility, making them popular among hikers tackling varied terrains.
Pros of adjustable hiking poles
- Adaptability to terrain: Adjustable poles shine on uneven or steep trails. You can shorten them for uphill climbs to increase leverage and lengthen them on descents for better balance and support. This ability to tweak the length ensures your posture remains ergonomic, reducing strain on your back and knees. You can also shorten one and lengthen the other when contouring around a hill.
Adjustible hiking pole - my Leki hiking poles adjust between 110cm and 130cm
- Custom fit: Hikers of different heights can benefit from adjustable poles. If you're sharing poles among family members or friends, their adjustable nature allows everyone to use them comfortably.
- Compact storage: Many adjustable poles collapse or fold into a small size, making them ideal for travellers and backpackers. They can fit neatly into suitcases or attach compactly to
backpacks
when not in use.
My Leki Makalu hiking poles fold down to just 40cm in length
- Special features: Adjustable poles often have advanced features such as anti-shock mechanisms, interchangeable tips, and durable locking systems. These can enhance comfort and usability, particularly on long treks.
Hiking poles can come with built-in anti-shock
Locking mechanism on a Leki hiking pole
Cons of adjustable hiking poles
- Durability concerns: The telescoping sections or folding joints can be less sturdy than non-folding, fixed-length poles. If not properly maintained, they may loosen or malfunction over time, particularly in rugged or extreme conditions.
- Weight: Adjustable poles tend to weigh more due to the added mechanisms for adjusting and locking. This extra weight might be a drawback for ultralight hikers, although some excellent, lightweight adjustable hiking poles are available.
- Complexity: While modern locking systems are robust, they add a layer of complexity. Adjusting poles mid-hike can feel cumbersome, especially in cold or wet conditions where
gloves
might make handling the locks tricky.
The various sections on an adjustible hiking pole that need adjusting to height and fixing together
Fixed-length hiking poles: Simplicity and reliability
Fixed-length hiking poles are, as the name suggests, poles with a set length that cannot be adjusted. Their straightforward design makes them
a favourite among minimalists, trail runners, and hikers on predictable terrain.
There are two kinds of fixed-length poles: folding ones and non-folding ones. Many experienced walkers or trail runners, once they know the length of pole that works best for them, go with a folding fixed-length pole, which offers some of the best points of both types of poles - effectively a hybrid version.
The pros and cons are slightly different for each type.
Fixed length hiking pole folded
Pros of fixed-length, non-folding hiking poles
- Simplicity and reliability: Fixed-length poles are inherently sturdier and less prone to failure with no moving parts or locking mechanisms. They excel in rugged environments where reliability is paramount, such as rocky trails or extreme weather.
- Lightweight design: Fixed poles are often lighter than their adjustable counterparts since they don't require extra components like locking systems. This weight saving can be significant for ultralight hikers and fast-packers.
- Durability: The single-piece construction of fixed-length poles enhances their longevity. They're less likely to bend, snap, or loosen under pressure, making them an excellent choice for rugged terrain or heavy use.
- Better for repetitive use: For activities like Nordic walking or trail running, where the poles are used repetitively in a rhythm, fixed poles provide unmatched consistency. Their balance and stiffness make them feel like an extension of your body.
Cons of fixed-length, non-folding hiking poles
- Lack of flexibility: Fixed poles are limited to one length, which may not suit every trail condition. For instance, they can feel too short when descending steep slopes or too long when climbing uphill.
- Transport challenges: Unlike adjustable poles, fixed-length poles cannot collapse, making them less convenient to transport. They often stick out awkwardly when strapped to a backpack or stored in a car boot.
- Fit limitations: Since they're set to one length, you must choose poles that perfectly match your height. This can be problematic if you're taller or shorter than average or share your gear with others.
Folding, fixed-length hiking-poles
These offer most of the same pros as the fixed-length non-folding hiking pole, although they have a few moving parts that allow them to be folded.
On the cons side, it does negate the transport challenge, as they can be folded.
Which poles are best for you?
The choice between
adjustable and fixed-length hiking poles
ultimately depends on your hiking style, the terrain you frequent, and personal preferences. Here's a quick guide:
Choose adjustable poles if:
- You are new to hiking poles and want to know what length poles suit you the best
- You hike on varied terrains with steep ascents and descents.
- You travel frequently and need compact gear.
- You want poles that can adapt to different users or situations.
Choose fixed-length poles if:
- You prefer simplicity and reliability over versatility.
- You frequently tackle tough trails or engage in high-impact activities like trail running.
- You value lightweight gear for ultralight trekking.
Adjustable vs fixed hiking poles: Final thoughts
Whether you opt for adjustable or fixed-length hiking poles, the most important factors are how they feel in your hands, whether they are the
right height for you and whether they support your hiking needs. If possible, test different options and invest in a high-quality pair that
matches your style and terrain. With the right poles, every step of your hike will feel more balanced, efficient, and enjoyable.
I know many people who like the simplicity of folding fixed-length poles, but I prefer fully adjustable hiking poles, where the length can be
changed on the way around to accommodate the ups and downs of a walk. They fold down small to be attached to the outside of my backpack or in a
case when travelling, and by investing in a decent pair of poles, they are strong and durable enough, if well-maintained, to last many years.
Happy walking...
January 2025
