The main feature I look for is adjustability,” says Goei. “I like my poles a little shorter going uphill and a little longer going downhill.” These poles felt extremely comfortable, with a natural cork grip-foam extension combo, similar to the Montem’s handle, that kept hands comfortable and dry. The handle felt a little smaller than others. It also has some of the tighter-adjusting wrist straps, which are padded and smooth-seamed, making these well-suited for smaller hands and wrists or for someone who doesn’t like a bulky grip. Adaptable for all terrains and treks: versatile 3k carbon walking poles to suit any type of ground or weather conditions. accessories include 4 ferrules, 2 mud baskets, 2 snow baskets, 2 walking feet, 2 pole clips, and a handy storage bag. However, many walkers prefer to use just one. That way, you’ve got a free hand when you need it. But you don’t have as much stability as you would with two poles, so if you’re off to scramble up a fell, you’ll definitely be wanting two poles. What features should I look out for?

The ergonomic grips are made from cork, but there’s also a rubberised “extension” for added grip on steep terrain, so you get the best of both worlds. The padded wrist strap feels really secure, too. The poles come with two basket sets (including one for deep snow) and interchangeable carbide and rubber tips for when the going is soft and hard.Adjustable height easily adjusts from 33.5 to 37.5 inches in 1-inch increments to help eliminate uncomfortable bending or slouching. 5 increment height adjustment holes in total.

Nordic walking poles: Poles designed specifically for Nordic walking tend to be fixed-length without folding mechanisms, and combine extreme lightness with super-strength to support your weight. Specialist walking pole maker Leki has a great guide to selecting the length of your Nordic walking pole. The aesthetically-pleasing EVA foam handles resemble cork but are comfortable and sweat-absorbing. The extended foam grip has extra contour and texture, which we found helpful for pulling ourselves up while climbing. The wrist straps are padded and adjust nicely to prevent chafing. They also stay secure, so you won’t accidentally drop a pole while hiking, though they also need occasional retightening. Look out, world of walking poles – Alain’s here to shake things up. Les Baton’s d’Alain (French for ‘Alain’s poles’) are eye-catchingly bright hiking and skiing poles designed and made in the shadow of Mont Blanc in Chamonix in the French Alps by mountain guide Alain Desez.

The specially designed handles and straps were easy for our young tester’s small hands to hold onto and carry as she navigated her footing and simple for her to adjust, earning the set a 5 out of 5 for ease of use and comfort. We like that they come with a steel safety tip to use while exploring the surroundings. They even come with bonus trekking baskets for helping young ones walk on softer soil and snow.