• Overall Rating

  : 4-5 out of 5

Trekmates are often a slightly more affordable brand, but their products are still good quality, and the Trekmates Folding Carbon Poles are no different.

They are the top of the range for the brand, with a 100% carbon fibre construction on all sections. While they aren’t the lightest in the test, they are definitely on the lighter end which can be felt when using them. With the unextended height at 110cm, they felt like the perfect height for me, and I didn’t need to adjust them but the adjustment is easy with a lever lock and wheel to loosen or tighten the tension on it. They are also the shortest packed length, and great for getting into a bag, with a velcro strap to keep the sections together. The sections are held together with a plastic coated wire, which feels very robust but still easy to put together.

The Trekmates Folding Carbon Pole in the wild. Credit: Kirsty Pallas

The handle is extended moulded EVA foam, giving a couple of comfortable hand positions up and down the pole, with a textured surface lower down to increase grip when you’re not in the strap. The strap is padded with a small layer of foam, which is comfortable for wearing it over a period of time. The poles come with rubber tips which can be removed, and a light storage bag which keeps them contained and stops the carbide tips doing any damage inside a bag. They also have 32mm mud baskets which come attached, but can be removed, however there’s no bigger basket for snow. However they are good for the classic Scottish bog! I think these are a great option for a compromise between cost and weight, with a cheaper price point but slightly heavier weight, they feel solid and robust.

How we tested

Kirsty is 154cm tall and always carries a pair of trekking poles with her across the Highlands in her role as a qualified Mountain Leader. All weights are taken from her own scales without rubber tips, and packed lengths are measured by Kirsty.