Last updated on April 13th, 2021 at 10:59 pm
Research has proven the importance of physical activity in remaining independent and healthy as we age. Particularly, the huge impact aerobic activities such as walking and hiking have on our hearts, joints, blood pressure, and more. To encourage safe and more frequent walking and hiking among the aging populations, we’ve put together this post of the best walking sticks and hiking poles for seniors.
Walking sticks and trekking poles provide additional stabilization for aging activity seekers. Quality walking sticks work well to provide balance, absorb shock to joints, and assist movement over various terrains.
We have an entire post focused on hiking over 60, and one of the suggestions to maintain safety and confidence are investing in a pair of trekking poles. The rest of this post seeks to make that decision making process a bit easier.
What Makes an Ideal Walking Stick / Trekking Pole For Seniors?
Great walking sticks and trekking poles provide stability for various body types and can help reduce the stress and impact on joints and muscles. Seniors should focus on the following key attributes when searching for trekking poles:
- Provide balance: Regardless of the material a walking stick or pole is comprised of, it needs to provide substantial assistance to your normal faculties. An ergonomically designed pair of poles will improve your posture and maintain your stability.
- Lightweight: The lighter your poles are the better off you’ll be. Remember, you will be carrying these around, and when not in use you might have them slung over your shoulder. Light poles are ideal for preventing fatigue.
- Easy to adjust: All of our bodies are built differently, and a good pair of walking or hiking poles will take that into consideration. A good pair of poles will have the ability to adjust up or down to provide the perfect height for most body types and terrains.
- Works on various terrains: Whether you’re walking your neighborhood and just want a stable stick to help you get around, or you are taking on a 10 mile hike, a good pair of trekking poles will come with various tips so you can take on any surface.
- A wrist strap on the grips: Senior walkers and hikers should definitely seek out poles that come with wrist straps. These will keep the poles close to you EVEN if they slip from your grip.
Our Favorite Walking Poles for Seniors...
Based on the above criteria, and after hours of research, we’ve put a great list of walking sticks / trekking poles together that are perfect for aging populations. A couple of the poles rose to the top of our list, and we feel they deserve special mention here:
Best Sticks / Poles for Seniors: Trail Buddy Trekking Poles
Second Best Poles: Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
The two models we mention above are great for nearly any terrain, are easy to use, and are both lightweight.
While we think they are fantastic, we also realize everyone has different bodies and there might be another pair that works best for you. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to read through the rest of the poles we review in this post to see if any of the others line up with your needs better.
Comparison Table of 6 Best Walking and Hiking Poles for Seniors
There are a ton of options out there for walking sticks and trekking poles, and all of the ones we have included in the table below had the key attributes required to be a part of this post. Below we provide all them side-by-side so you can compare and contrast. You can quickly check out more specs, pictures, and current pricing on Amazon by following any of the links below.
| Picture | Name / Link | Price |
|---|---|---|
 
|
Trail Buddy Trekking Poles | $ |
 
|
Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles | $$ |
 
|
Hiker Hunger Carbon Trekking Poles | $$$ |
 
|
BAFX Trekking Poles | $ |
 
|
Montem Ultra Strong Poles | $$ |
 
|
Cascade Mountain Trekking Poles | $ |
Any of the walking sticks we’ve outlined in the table above would be a great choice. If you want to learn more about any of the poles that made our list, read further because we provide a TON of detail on each option.
1. Trail Buddy Trekking Poles
The Trail Buddy Trekking Poles are our favorite walking sticks for seniors. They are lightweight and strong, but for all the features and options they are VERY affordable as well.
Whether walking through your neighborhood, or hiking a local trail, these poles are great.
Strong Construction But Still Lightweight
One of the most important features for any walking stick is its strength. After all, you will literally be leaning on it for assistance with each step. For this reason, having a strong pair of poles becomes important for safety reasons as well.
The Trail Buddy Trekking Poles are comprised of a lightweight, but extremely strong, aluminum shaft. This aluminum shaft can hold more weight than some other design styles on the market.
While aluminum is strong, it also has the added benefit of being extremely lightweight. Each pole weighs in at just 9.7 oz, which is a VERY manageable pole weight.
Ergonomic Grip with Wrist Strap
There are two things senior walkers should always look for in the grips of their walking sticks and trekking poles:
- Cork Construction: Cork grips are ideal because they form to your specific hands over time. This technology means your grips will become even more comfortable as you continue to use them.
- Wrist Straps: Any walking stick worth its weight will have a wrist strap. These will keep your poles close.
The Trail Buddy Trekking Poles come with both of the attributes mentioned above (which is among the reasons why we think they are great).
Changing Height is Easy with These Poles
Whether you are 4 ft. 5 in. tall or 6 ft. 4 in. tall, the Trail Buddy poles will be compatible with your height. Adjustable from 25.5″ to 54″ long, you are very likely to find the perfect length for your height.
Not only are the poles able to adjust for various body types, but they are extremely easy to lock into place with the “lever locks” they come with. Lever locks do not require twisting to lock into place, and are also easy to work if you have gloves on. This means way less effort to adjust the poles, lock them in place, and continue moving!
These Poles Work On Various Terrains
Another benefit of these poles is their versatility… They come with a variety of tips that work on concrete, asphalt, gravel, off-road trail, muddy conditions and more.
Because these poles come with a variety of interchangeable tips, you will be able to use them more often, and as a result you might end up being more active than you otherwise would have.
Trail Buddy Trekking Pole Pros and Cons
Trail Buddy PROS
- Ergonomic grips
- STRONG shaft construction
- Lightweight
- Easy to adjust
- Comes with a bag
Trail Buddy CONS
- Doesn’t have a double wide grip
Who are the Trail Buddy Walking Sticks Perfect For?
The Trail Buddy trekking poles are designed for a wide variety of body types, are easy to use, and extremely durable. For this reason we feel these poles are perfect for aging walkers AND hikers alike.
Whether taking on your neighborhood sidewalks, hitting a local park, or experiencing a National Park these poles will help older activity seekers stay balanced, reduce joint stress, and have fun getting outside. You can take a look at more specs, pictures, and current pricing on Amazon here: Trail Buddy Trekking Poles.
2. Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles
If versatility is your main objective, the Foxelli Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles should definitely be on your shortlist.
With an extremely ergonomic design, these poles are suited VERY WELL for older hikers. Strength is another main attribute for the Foxelli brand poles.
Extremely Lightweight Design
The Foxelli Carbon Fiber Poles are the lightest poles of any we researched. Weighing in at just 7.6 oz per pole, these will be nearly unnoticeable in a backpack. You might even forget about them while holding them.
Carbon Fiber Construction ABSORBS Impact
The carbon fiber shaft of these poles are designed to flex and give a bit with their use. This helps provide additional shock absorption. Additional shock absorption is particularly helpful when walking on harder surfaces like concrete or asphalt.
For this reason, The Foxelli Carbon Fiber Poles might be one of the best walking sticks for walking on sidewalks.
For seniors looking for a set of walking poles that can be used around the neighborhood, these might just be the most ideal.
Comes with a Variety of Tips
Don’t let the effectiveness these poles have on harder surfaces fool you though, these poles are well suited for difficult mountainous terrains as well.
Coming with a ton of high quality (and easily changed) tips, the Foxelii Carbon Fiber Poles are extremely versatile. You can take them out in nearly any terrain and get all the benefits you need.
Pros and Cons of the Foxelli Carbon Poles
Foxelli Carbon Pole PROS
- Great at absorbing shock
- EXTREMELY lightweight
- Work on many terrains
- Easily adjustable
- Double long grip
Foxelli Carbon Poles CONS
- Mid-range pricing
Who Will Love the Foxelli Carbon Poles?
With a variety of tips to help you take on any terrain, and with the ability to adjust from 24″ up to 55″, these poles are great for just about anyone.
While these poles work for anyone, the shock absorbing shaft material might make these walking sticks ideal for use on sidewalks and asphalt. This makes them very well suited to aging walkers looking for assistance on their neighborhood walks. After all, concrete sidewalks can be pretty unforgiving, and a shock absorbing pair of poles could be extremely helpful.
Whether hitting the local park trails, or trekking the neighborhood sidewalks these poles are worth considering. You can take a look at additional specs, pictures, and current pricing on Amazon here: The Foxelli Carbon Poles.
3. Hiker Hunger Trekking Poles
Another great (albeit more costly) walking stick option for seniors are the Hiker Hunger Trekking Poles.
Lightweight, and adjustable from 24″ to 54″, these poles are durable, versatile, and ergonomic.
VERY STRONG - Comprised of 100% Carbon Fiber
It is important for aging activity seekers to feel confident leaning on their walking sticks. After all, that is what they are there for. With the Hiking Hunger poles, and the strength of their construction, you can do so more confidently.
With sleekly designed carbon fiber shafts, the Hiker Hunger trekking poles provide the strength required for various body weights.
Very Lightweight - Easy to Carry
We have already stated that carbon fiber is strong and shock absorbing, but its other main benefit is its weight.
For older walkers and hikers, it is important to pick a pair of poles that are easily carried, and at just 7.6 oz per pole these are VERY lightweight.
If you’re looking for the lightest poles you can find, the Hiking Hunger poles might just be best for you.
Ergonomic Grip and Built in Safety
Cork is likely the most ideal grip on the marketplace when it comes to walking sticks and trekking poles. The Hiking Hunger poles come with cork, but they also have the added feature of an EVA extended grip just beneath the cork.
The double long grip means you can choke down on the poles to get additional leverage when going up hills.
This may not be super important to all users, but if you have any hills on your favorite route, this might be an important attribute to you.
Simple Locking Mechanism When Adjusting
All good walking sticks can be adjusted, but not all have the ability to easily lock into place.
The Hiker Hunger Trekking Poles have a flip lock that helps EASILY set the poles at the users desired height. The lock flips into place and is set with a metal screw that won’t loosen or fall out over time.
Hiker Hunger Trekking Poles Pros and Cons
Hiking Hunger Pole PROS
- Super lightweight and strong
- Double long grip
- Wrist strap included
- Simple locking mechanism
- Comes with a bag
Hiking Hunger Pole CONS
- VERY costly
Which Users Are These Poles Ideal For?
If it wasn’t for cost (their much costlier than others) these poles might be our favorite.
With the above being said, there is no question the high quality construction and ergonomic design make these ideal for a wide variety of body types and a wide variety of activities.
Whether speed hiking, walking around your neighborhood, or taking a casual stroll with family, these poles will work well.
Carbon fiber shaft construction works well on harder surfaces, the wrist strap will keep these on your hands, and they are easily adjusted. Whats not to like? You can take a look at more specs, pictures, or current pricing on Amazon here: Hiker Hunger Trekking Poles.
4. BAFX Hiking / Walking / Trekking Pole
The BAFX Hike / Walk / Trekking Poles are a fantastic option for older walkers, hikers and trail seekers that are also on a budget.
While a good pole, the low cost of these poles are definitely a main reason these made our list.
Very Inexpensive Option
We already mentioned above that these poles are among the least costly (while maintaining quality) on the market.
Because these are so inexpensive they might be perfect for older couples looking to get multiple pairs in order to stay active together.
Whether purchasing for yourself, a loved one, or a group, these poles won’t break the bank.
Works Well on Various Terrain
While less costly than other options, these poles still come with three interchangeable tips. This ensures you will have a pole that can handle a variety of terrains.
Whether taking on muddy bridal trails, or taking a family walk on sidewalk, these poles are likely to have a tip for the pole that will work.
Comes With a Wrist Strap
While these poles don’t have a cork grip they do come with wrist straps to keep the poles close to your hands even if your grip slips.
Wrist straps have become an important attribute for walking sticks and trekking poles. This features is definitely a high value for senior activity seekers.
Pros and Cons for the BAFX Hike / Walk / Trekking Poles
BAFX Pole PROS
- SUPER inexpensive
- Comes with wrist straps
- Adjustable to various heights
BAFX Pole CONS
- Heavier than other options
- No cork grips
- Doesn’t come with bag
Who Are the BAFX Poles Perfect For?
If you are an older walker or hiker, and you are looking for a low cost pair of walking sticks, these poles might be for you.
While these trekking poles are a lower cost option, we should note that they still come with a wide variety of key features you will need. In that sense, these poles have a lot of value wrapped up in their price tag.
Whether hitting a trail or sidewalk for a stroll, these poles can help you do so without breaking the bank. You can take a look at more specs, pictures, and current pricing on Amazon here: BAFX Hiking and Walking Poles.
5. Montem High Strength Trekking Poles
The Montem High Strength Trekking Poles are a great mid-price option for senior hikers.
Adjustable from 24″ to 53″ and with some really unique features (which we cover below), these poles deserve to be on your shortlist.
Ergonomic (and unique) Handle Grips and Wrist Strap
The Montem poles come with a double wide grip where the top half is comprised of cork and the bottom an extended foam sleeve.
While these poles aren’t the only ones with extended grips, they do have a very unique feature that we like: A padded wrist strap. Now, this doesn’t mean the wrist strap is super padded, BUT any additional comfort on the wrist straps goes a long way.
We wanted to bring attention to the padded wrist strap because it is an often overlooked attribute.
Very Easy to Adjust and Lock
Adjustable to heights that work for shorter or taller seniors it is important to have an easy locking mechanism.
The Montem poles come with what they term as a “flick lock” that is easily deployed to hold the shaft in its desired location.
Comes With Tips For Various Terrains
The Montem Trekking Poles come with three interchangeable tips that provide some versatility in where you use them.
While some of the poles we review in this post come with more than three interchangeable tips, it should be noted that they do supply three options for you to choose from.
Pros and Cons of the Montem High Strength Poles
Montem Pole PROS
- Easily adjustable heights
- “Flick Lock” locking tech
- Padded wrist strap
- Not overly costly
Montem Pole CONS
- No bag included
- Not as many tips included
Who Will Love These Poles?
These poles are a great option for anyone wanting something to lean on during walks or hikes that really prioritizes an ergonomic design.
While a padded wrist strap shouldn’t likely be the only reason you select a pair of trekking poles, it might be if you have sensitive hands and wrists. For senior trekkers this could be a valuable feature.
If the above describes you, check out more specs, pictures, and current pricing on Amazon here: Montem Ultra Strong Trekking, Walking, and Hiking Poles.
6. Cascade Mountain Poles
The Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles come with a ton of versatility, are widely adjustable, and VERY lightweight.
If you are looking for a well put together kit that includes a bag, this might be the set of poles for you.
Strong Shaft AND Lightweight
With a 100% carbon fiber shaft construction, these poles are strong AND shock absorbing.
One of the other benefits carbon fiber has is its extreme lightweight. Weighing in at just 7.8 oz per pole, these are among the lightest weight poles we reviewed.
Double Long Grip Handles
When up-hill battles are a part of your exercise adventure you will want a trekking pole or walking stick to help you.
This is true for all hikers, but specifically for aging walkers and trekkers. A double long grip provides a more ergonomic hold for these up-hill portions of trail.
Comprised of comfortable and non-slip EVA material, these poles have double long grips that will help make your elevation gains more comfortable.
Work Well Whether Walking or Hiking
These poles come with four interchangeable tips to help you take on walks OR hikes.
Whether hitting a gravel bridal trail, or a multi-use asphalt trail, there will likely be a tip you can put on these poles to help you confidently take it on.
Pros and Cons of The Cascade Mountain Poles
Cascade Mountain PROS
- VERY lightweight
- Carbon fiber construction
- Wrist strap included
- Comes with a bag
- Double long grip
Cascade Mountain CONS
- No cork grips
Who Is This Walking Stick Perfect For?
While not all trekking poles we review in this post come with a carrying bag, it might be an important option for aging hikers.
When you pair the carrying bag with the high quality shaft construction and lightweight design, this might be one of the best all-in-one packages on the market. If you want to learn more about this trekking pole package, you can check out more specs, pictures, and current pricing on Amazon here: Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles.
Before Picking Your Walking Stick
Before picking a walking stick or trekking pole remember to take stock of the type of activities you are looking to use them for.
Do you plan to use them up-hill, or will you be using them around your neighborhood
Knowing if you are going to hit off-pavement trails will help narrow which poles are right for you.
As an aging activity lover it is also important to recognize what you will need in a pair of poles. Strong, easily adjustable poles, that you can literally lean on, should be your goal. Luckily there are a lot of options out there.
Remember to choose walking sticks and trekking poles that:
- Provide balance
- Are lightweight
- Easily adjust
- Are versatile for the terrains
- Come with a wrist strap
If you can source a pair of poles that hit on the above attributes you are more likely to find a helpful pair.
Be Confident in Staying Active
Whether you use poles or not, it is important to work at remaining physically active while we age. Doing so provides significant benefits. You don’t need to take our word for it though, The Cleveland Clinic has outlined why its important to continue exercising as you age.
If you are unsure whether doing an activity that requires trekking poles is for you, have a candid conversation with your physician and get their input on your plans to remain physically active.
Remaining active is one of the best ways to bolster your quality of life while aging, and anything that can help you remain confident in that effort is worth considering. This is the reason we put this post together; because a good pair of trekking poles can help keep you confident while doing what you love.
Image Credit: Mark Doliner | (https://www.flickr.com/photos/markdoliner/) | Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0) –reduced file size and cropped
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