Welcome to ThinkVail – shop for the best walking poles for women from LEKI, Black Diamond, Cascade Mountain Tech, MSR, Foxelli, SWIX, TrailBuddy, York Nordic, Brazos, TREKOLOGY and more
Trekking poles (also known as hiking poles or walking poles) are an essential piece of equipment regardless of which season you hit the trail. In the winter, trekking poles help with snowshoeing, mountaineering, split boarding and ice climbing. The rest of the year, walking poles can assist on rugged hikes, mountaineering, walks on the beach, shopping malls and neighborhood strolls.
Walking poles are ideal when recovering from an injury, when carrying extra weight, or to maintain balance and posture. They also reduce stress on your ankles and knees by driving the pressure to the back and arms.
Women should generally search for poles that are lighter, smaller, shorter and narrower and specifically designed for ladies. Unisex trekking pole can be used by women if they are sized correctly.
Trekking poles are sold as a pair and used in tandem. Most are adjustable in length and some include internal springs that absorb shock to further reduce impact. Look for smaller sized grips to fit a women’s hand.
Important Features
GRIPS
Commonly made of foam, cork and/or rubber. Cork conforms to the user’s hand and is cooler than rubber, but is slightly heavier than foam and can make your hand sweat much more than a foam grip. Rubber is the heaviest and can’t absorb moisture. Foam is the warmest of them all and absorbs moisture the best. Look for grips that are angled to keep your wrists in a neutral and comfortable position.
Those who mountaineer and enjoy wet or cold-weather activities should opt for rubber grips, while foam is best for climbers. Hikers and backpackers tend to lean towards a cork grip for good moisture-wicking.
SHAFT MATERIAL
Most trekking poles are constructed of carbon fiber or aluminum. Carbon fiber tends to be lighter and much stronger than aluminum but aluminum is better at withstanding hard bangs or dents that lead to carbon fiber poles cracking or breaking.
Aluminum – The more durable and economical choice, aluminum poles usually weigh between 18 and 22 ounces per pair. The actual weight (and price) can vary a bit based on the gauge of aluminum, which ranges from 12 to 16mm. Under high stress, aluminum can bend, but is unlikely to break.
Composite – Made either entirely or partially from carbon. These poles are lighter and more expensive and average between 12 and 18 ounces per pair. They are good at reducing vibration, but under high stress, carbon-fiber poles are more vulnerable to breakage or splintering than aluminum poles.
ADJUSTABLE OR FIXED LENGTH
Generally speaking, when using trekking poles you want a 90-degree bend at your elbow when the pole tips are placed in front of you and touching the ground. This correct placement is important, luckily many walking poles make it easy to adjust the length of the shaft to match your height.
Fixed Length Poles – Non-adjustable. These poles tend to be lighter weight than adjustable poles because they operate with fewer parts, making them popular with those wanting to minimize weight. Fixed length poles are very safe as there is no chance the locking mechanism will fail and the pole collapses or slides as you’re hiking. However fixed length poles can be difficult to store when not in use
Adjustable Poles – You can easily alter their length to suit your height, AND adjust their lengths to suit different slopes and terrain. Typically, hikers shorten their poles when going uphill and lengthen them when going downhill. They are more convenient and offers more portability than fixed length poles. Collapsible, foldable and telescoping trekking poles can be locked into their extended form by a twisting lock that locks the 2 or 3 sections of the shaft or by a level lock action or flip locks to prevent the poles from collapsing during use.
SHOCK ABSORBERS
If you have a previous knee/ankle/joint injury or knee replacement you will probably want shock absorbers as they decrease the shock of impact when going downhill thanks to internal springs.
BASKETS & TIPS
Large Baskets– For snowy areas and wintry conditions, small baskets are ideal for hiking.
Carbide/Tungsten or Steel Tips– Commonly used to provide traction, even on ice.
Rubber Tip Protectors – Extends the life of the tips and protect your gear when poles are stowed in your pack. They are also good for use in sensitive areas to reduce impact to the ground.
LEKI has been a leader in the ski pole and alpine trekking pole industry since the 1970s. Their pole are German engineered and encompass quality and functionality with an emphasis on durability and comfort. Trust us, these are the poles you want.
Evocon COR-TEC grips ensure all day trail comfort, support and control.
The COR-TEC grip is made of 80% natural ground cork so it is very durable and long-lasting
8 degree positive angle of the grips keeps wrist in neutral position and provides efficient pole plants.
Security strap adjusts and secures strap adjustment without buckles.
Top notch locking mechanism that offers quick, reliable length adjustments even while wearing gloves.
Heat-treated ultralight 16 mm HTS 6.5 Series Aluminum upper shaft; 14 mm lower shafts is strong and light
Carbide Flextips provide secure hold on all terrain and surfaces and can be easily replaced in the field.
Interchangeable basket system with offset thread, allows a variety of different sized LEKI baskets to be easily screwed on/off for different seasons and uses
Made with non-toxic materials.
Specifically engineered for women.
Weight: 239 grams per pole
Height: 90-125 cm; completely adjustable
Poles are 27″ when collapsed
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#2 Best Walking Poles for Women – Black Diamond
These lightweight, four-season trekking poles by Black Diamond Trail Pro Shock offers on-trail versatility, and features a terrain-absorbing shock absorber that makes hiking a joy again. Black Diamond boasts high quality alpine products and these trekking poles, like all their other items do not disappoint.
Women’s-specific dual-density grip and 360-degree padded webbing strap
Non-slip foam grip extension for a comfortable grip.
Control Shock technology makes trekking easier especially if you have had a foot or knee injury or just need more support.
Control Shock is located within the grip and provides progressive four-stage shock absorption with smooth rebound control on even the most rugged trails. But keep in mind you can not turn off the shock absorbers.
Double Flick Lock Pro offers easy height adjustment that won’t move
Interchangeable carbide tech tips and low-profile trekking baskets means its great for summer hiking or snowy conditions.
Lightweight, collapsible poles
Weight per pair : 555 g (1 lb 4 oz)
Usable length : 62-125 cm (24-49 in) / Collapsed length : 62 cm (24 in)
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#3 Best Walking Poles for Women – MSR DynaLock
Founded in 1969, MSR, also known as Mountain Safety Research is a company of engineers, inventors and unruly dreamers. These innovators are known for creating the most reliable, high-performance gear possible and the Dynalink Ascent foldable hiking pole does not disappoint.
Made of ultralight Kevlar-reinforced carbon fiber construction
Quick-deploy trekking pole design folds small to stash easily in smaller packs
20 cm of easy, rock-solid DynaLock adjustability with tool-free tensioning
EVA foam grip, plus lower grip for choking up on steep terrain offers comfort and security when hiking.
Winter and summer baskets included for four-season use
Lengths: Small 100-120 cm (39.4-47 inches) / Large size is 120-140 cm (47.2-55 inches)
Pole collapses to 36.2 cm (14.25 inches) / 44.5 cm (17.5 inches) so its perfect for traveling
Ideal for fast ascents and remote traverses
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#4 Best Walking Poles for Women – Foxelli
Foxelli creates high-end outdoor gear for professionals and everyday users. These carbon fiber trekking poles are specially designed for performance, maximum comfort and safety and are ideal for every member of the family.
Made of 100% ultralight carbon fiber material.
Carbon fiber is shock-absorbent and significantly minimizes the impact on joints.
Designed to withstand even the most challenging hikes or backpacking trips.
Quick-lock technology makes these poles a breeze to adjust – locking them in place takes only a few seconds and prevents them from sliding down.
Anti-slip natural cork grips absorb sweat and moisture and will keep your hands cool and dry
Extra-padded, fully adjustable, breathable wrist straps ensure you don’t accidentally drop your poles
Extended foam sleeves, made of soft EVA foam aids in abrupt changes in terrain.
Whether you’re using these poles for ice mountain climbing or a casual stroll around the neighborhood the tungsten carbide tips will not let you down
Thermoplastic rubber tips & baskets strongly attach to the trekking sticks,
Carrying case and a carrying clip are both included for easy, convenient storage and transportation.
Increase traction, maintain balance and minimize impact on legs, knees, ankles and feet and are great if you are recovering from an injury.
Unisex design, one size fits all
Complete package includes: 2 poles, 2 storage tips, 2 asphalt tips, 2 mud baskets, 2 snow baskets, a carrying clip and a carrying bag
Retractable from 24” to 55” with a wide range of heights
Weight: Each pole weighs 7 oz
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#5 Best Walking Poles for Women – SWIX of Norway
SWIX Nordic walking poles are the world’s best poles for fitness walking, hiking, trekking, improved balance and stability, and in physical therapy. This walking stick is custom fit to your exact size
Custom fitted to your height.
Made with durable double wrap carbon construction.
Safest choice for athletes, seniors and individuals with balance issues.
Ergonomic Nordic straps and cork grips for comfort
Include removable Nordic walking rubber tips/asphalt paws for hard surfaces – pavement, cement, indoor & outdoor tracks, shopping malls, etc.
Includes durable carbide metal tips for the trail, grass, beach, sand dunes, snow & ice
#1 selling walking poles in the USA
Available in 32 sizes
Not adjustable, no twist-lock/flip lock failure, very sturdy
Free DVD and printed instructions included with every order.
Perfect length poles promotes better walking posture.
Doctor recommended
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#6 Best Walking Poles for Women – TrailBuddy
Trail Buddy trekking poles offers the best combination of durable strength and lightweight portability in a complete set designed specifically for the trekker. These poles are built for adventure.
Made of tough aluminum makes it ideal if you’re hiking on rocky terrain or supporting heavier weight
Lightweight and long-lasting.
Telescoping poles with lever locks can adjust from 25.5 to 54 inches is a breeze even when wearing gloves
Cork handles are comfy to use in both hot and cold temperatures, are moisture-wicking, and mold to the shape of your hand
Padded strap prevents chafing
Available in a variety of colors: Black / Blue / Red/ Green / Yellow / Pink / Purple / Aqua
Complete trekking poles package includes a carrying bag, 2 pairs rubber tips, 1 pair connectors, mud baskets, and snow baskets (snow baskets for light snowshoeing only, NOT for skiing)
Weight:9.7 ounce per pole.
Poles are 21″ when disassembled.
Poles are 24.5″ when collapsed
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#7 Best Walking Poles for Women – Cascade Mountain Tech
The perfect trekking poles for the hiking enthusiast. Cascade Mountain Tech offers a wide selection of hiking trekking poles, with different poles to meet the needs of every outdoor enthusiast. Find the one that’s right for you.
Made with 100% carbon fiber. User friendly for beginners and strong enough for thru-hikers.
Lightweight & compact
Quick lock mechanism is easy use and reliable for holding the pole at the desired height
Cork grips provide exceptional comfort, reduce the vibration as you step, and wicks away sweat.
Adjustable wrist straps.
Perfect for every family member.
Complete package includes:
Tungsten Carbide Tips best for rugged terrain, snow and ice
Snow Basket prevent trekking poles from sinking into the snow
Mud Basket best for mud, sand or other soft surfaces
Boot Tips offer extra cushioning and propulsion on hard surface
Provides stability, relieve pressure from your joints, and helps maintain a consistent rhythm.
Height adjustment ranging from 26”- 54”
Weight 7. 8 oz. per pole
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#8 Best Walking Poles for Women – York
The owner of York Nordic, Lauren DeLong, is a certified Nordic Walking instructor by the American Nordic Walking Association. She decided to design quality, stylish ultralight walking poles after she found the competition lacking.
3-piece walking pole is made of durable aircraft grade 7075 aluminum
York Nordic trekking poles are a great choice for women, whether beginners or experts
Adjustable size: Expanded poles adjust from 42.5 to 53 inches
Complete package includes 2 trek poles, solid tungsten steel tips, detachable rubber feet, snow baskets, and free black nylon travel bag.
Exclusive flip locks that quickly snap (and stay) in place
Pole length can be adjusted from 26 inches to 54 inch
Available in both Trek Grips and Nordic Grips
Includes a carrying/storage bag
Collapse to just 15.5 inches.
Weight: Each pole weighs 9 ounces (1.12 lbs. total)
Best in Industry 5 year warranty.
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#9 Best Walking Poles for Women – Brazos Hickory Twist
This stunning handmade Brazos wood hiking staff is a single walking stick not a pair of trekking poles but it will help get you into the backcountry and onto adventure, beautifully.
Convenient wrist strap provides a secure grip
Rubber tip provides traction on multiple surfaces with a secure grip
Handcrafted from solid, single piece of Hickory wood and contains exquisite detail with a smooth polished finish.
Handcrafted in the USA by skilled local craftsmen
Hickory’s strength and flexibility make this a choice for those seeking a solid, sturdy walking aid. .
Lovely coloring is light to medium brown, with a reddish hue
Available in 41 inch / 55 inch lengths
Made from the highest quality materials and time-tested methods
Meticulously cut, sanded, and sprayed with a protective clear coat lacquer to bring out its natural beauty.
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#10 Best Walking Poles for Women – TRECKOLOGY
Trekology is an innovative company started in Portland, Oregon with a small group of PhD engineers who are passionate about enjoying the outdoors. They are involved in every aspect of creating the Trek-Z trekking pole from concept to design, material selection, and distribution to ensure performance, affordability, and usability.
Cork grip absorbs vibrations and wicks sweat away from hands
Firmer grip in muddy areas with added mud stops.
EVA foam shafts allow for a strong grip in extreme environments.
Made from aircraft-grade 7075 aluminum-crucial for rough terrains and supporting heavier weights.
Sold in pairs with storage bag.
Adjustable wrist strap allows you to easily grab the pole again in the right place after letting go of the pole.
The joints are extra secure with added metal caps.
Compact design
Collapse down to a portable 15″ (38 cm)
Retractable tri-fold design.
Metal flip lock technology allows you to adjust the length of the pole quickly and easily and customize to your height.
Height adjustment range of 20cm from 110cm to 130cm that fits for men, women, teenager with height between 5’2” (159cm) to 6’5” (195cm).
We hope you found this article about the best walking poles for women helpful. What are your thoughts regarding walking poles? Have you used them in the past? Do you use them now? How did you get started using walking poles? What is your favorite feature of trekking poles and why? We would love to hear your thoughts, comments and stories. Thanks for reading.