Top 5 Ultra Running Poles: Essential Buyer's Guide

Ever felt your legs burn on a long uphill climb during an ultra? Many runners search for ways to make those tough miles easier. Trekking poles might seem like gear for hikers, but they are becoming a secret weapon for ultra runners. Choosing the right poles, however, can feel confusing. Should they be lightweight? Do they need to fold small? Finding the perfect pair that helps without getting in the way is a real challenge.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what to look for in ultra running poles. You will learn how poles save energy, improve your uphill speed, and help you recover faster on descents. Stop guessing about gear. Keep reading to discover how the right trekking poles can transform your next ultra adventure and help you cross that finish line strong.

Top Trekking Poles For Ultra Running Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

LEKI Ultratrail FX.One Carbon Collapsible Lightweight Trekking Poles for Hiking & Trail Running - Red-Black - 120 cm

Ultra Poles For Any Trail Run | Ultralight, collapsible poles designed for training trail runs and race day alike.
Collapsible | At the push of a button, the poles separate into three 16.1-inch sections for compact packability.
Carbon Construction | Keeps an ultralight quarter-pound weight while remaining surprisingly rigid.
Trail Shark Grip | Cork grip conforms to your hand’s shape for better comfort, and the adjustable mesh strap detaches for the efficiency that trail runners appreciate.
Specs | [Activities] Trail Running; [Length] 105 cm, 110 cm, 115 cm, 120 cm, 125 cm, 130 cm, 135 cm; [Pack Size] 16.1 in; [Weight] 6.7oz; [Material] Carbon (HRC); [Folding System] Push-Button; [Basket, Tip] Trail Running Basket; [Storage Bag] Folding Pole Bag

SaleBestseller No. 2

ULTRALIGHT CARBON CONSTRUCTION: Made from 100% carbon fiber for maximum strength and minimal weight. Designed for mountain runners, hikers, and fastpackers who need reliable support without extra bulk.
Z-POLE FOLDING TECHNOLOGY: Three-section design deploys quickly with a single pull and folds down small for compact storage. Ideal for travel, minimalist packing, and high-output adventures.
FIXED-LENGTH EFFICIENCY: Streamlined fixed-length design eliminates moving parts for ultimate rigidity and durability. Provides stable, consistent performance on steep ascents and technical terrain.
COMFORTABLE EVA FOAM GRIPS: Lightweight EVA foam handles with breathable, moisture-wicking straps deliver secure comfort during long efforts. Mini-grip extensions add control on inclines and switchbacks.
VERSATILE ALL-TERRAIN TRACTION: Carbide Tech Tips ensure secure grip on rock, dirt, or snow. Compatible with interchangeable rubber tips and snow baskets for use in all seasons and conditions.

Bestseller No. 3

AONIJIE Trail Running Poles 2 Pcs Outdoor Trekking Poles Foldable Aluminum Alloy Sticks Quick Lock Ultralight for Camping Hiking Mountaining Marathon

【THREE SIZES TO CHOOSE FROM】Choose from three sizes to fit most men and women. Length options include 110cm/43" for heights 160-170cm/63"-67", 120cm/47" for heights 170-180cm/67"-70.8", and 130cm/51" for heights 180-190cm/70.9"-74.8".
【HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL】Made of high-grade 7075 aluminum alloy, our trekking pole is tough and durable. It is resistant to abrasion, difficult to deform or break, allowing you to move efficiently.
【QUICK LOCK TECHNOLOGY】Our trekking poles feature quick-lock technology for easy adjustments. Simply pull up to lock the poles in place, ensuring stability and preventing slip. These collapsible hiking poles are quick to adjust and lock in place within seconds.
【COMFORTABLE NON-SLIP GRIP】The hiking sticks are equipped with a comfortable EVA grip that provides a nice hold, even when wet. They also feature a moisture-wicking wrist strap to prevent loss.
【Enhanced Outdoor Performance】Our aluminum pole is designed for all terrains, making it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, camping, and running. It provides stability and support to help you avoid slips and falls, and reduce strain on your legs.

SaleBestseller No. 4

Folding Trekking Poles, Hiking Sticks Foldable Hiking Poles Collapsible Lightweight, Trekking Poles for Hiking Collapsible, Hiking Poles Collapsible Lightweight Walking Sticks for Seniors Black Small

Compact & Portable - Our foldable hiking poles collapse down to 15 inches, fitting easily into any bag. These collapsible walking sticks for hiking are perfect for travel, offering lightweight portability for any outdoor adventure.
Lightweight & Durable - Our folding trekking poles, made of aircraft-grade aluminum, are the lightest on Amazon at 9.95 oz (short version) and 10.7 oz (long), offering exceptional strength and durability while staying ultralight for hikes or skiing.
Ultimate Adjustability - Our collapsible hiking poles offer two adjustable sizes: 100cm to 120cm for those 5'8" and under, and 115cm to 135cm for those 5'9" and taller. These folding walking sticks for hiking adjust easily to any height.
Superior Materials - Our trekking poles are built to last featuring metal flip locks, reinforced joints, and a choice of Cork or EVA foam grips with EVA foam extensions. These folding hiking stick are designed to withstand tough conditions.
An American Company - Based in Montana, our hiking poles are tested in the Rocky Mountains. With 250,000+ raving customers over the last 10 years, we are experts in creating poles for all adventures ensuring the best hiking equipment!

SaleBestseller No. 5

Built to Last: Made of 3k 100% Carbon Fiber, each pole weighs only 7.6 oz allowing you to keep your backpacking gear lightweight. Lighter & more versatile than aluminum, you’ll move quicker and exert less energy allowing you to walk longer distance.
Added Comfort: We use moisture-wicking ergonomic cork grips that conform to your hand shape for the ultimate fit! A nonslip EVA Foam Grip extension under the cork grip for quick use on steep climbs! And neoprene padded hand straps to avoid chafing.
Premium Stability: With our flip lock lever technology, our hiking poles are easy to adjust & lock in place securely. More secured locking than twist lock or foldable poles that slide out. And we use metal locks vs. plastic for ultimate strength.
Made For You: Our hiking sticks are retractable from 24” to 55” & are designed both short & tall Women, Men, & Kids! Built for backpacking, camping, & simple walks outside, our poles make the perfect camping essentials or outdoor gifts for someone!
Why Choose Us? Based in the USA & a team of Obsessive Hikers! Call us with Any Questions at Any Time. Trusted by 50,000+ customers since 2015 & a 3-year warranty to back up our products. Our first pole from 2015 is still going strong 7+ years later!

Bestseller No. 6

ULTRALIGHT ALUMINUM CONSTRUCTION: Crafted from 100% aluminum, these trekking poles deliver exceptional strength with minimal weight. Perfect for ultralight hikers, mountain runners, and endurance athletes who prioritize speed and efficiency on the trail.
FAST-DEPLOYING Z-POLE TECHNOLOGY: Three-section foldable design allows for rapid setup and breakdown. Folds down to a compact size for easy stowing in running vests or backpacks, ideal for travel and minimalist adventures.
FIXED-LENGTH PERFORMANCE: Designed for maximum rigidity and weight savings, the fixed-length configuration eliminates extra hardware. Provides stable, consistent support during fast ascents, descents, and technical terrain.
COMFORTABLE EVA FOAM GRIP: Lightweight EVA foam grip with a breathable, moisture-wicking strap ensures comfort during long days. Includes a non-slip mini-grip extension for steep climbs and quick hand transitions.
VERSATILE ALL-TERRAIN USE: Carbide Tech Tips deliver traction on dirt, rock, and snow. Compatible with rubber tips and snow baskets (sold separately). Ideal for trail running, hiking, and fastpacking in all seasons.

SaleBestseller No. 7

TREKOLOGY Trek-Z Cork Grip Trekking Poles – Lightweight Folding Hiking Poles, Adjustable Height, Compact Travel Design, Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Walking Sticks for Men & Women

New Design! Increase Your Foot Print! Trek-Z Ergonomic Trekking Poles (set of 2) give you reason to increase the steps you take. Providing extra support and walk comfortably with these hiking poles. Cork grip wicks away sweat from hands keeping them drier. EVA foam shafts allow for a strong grip in extreme all terrain environments. Trek-Z hiking sticks are the perfect gift for outdoor lovers who enjoy lightweight and compact hiking gear!
Engineered and Built To Last: Keeping your Adventurous nature in mind, we knew that No detail could be overlooked! Made with aircraft grade aluminum-crucial for hiking or backpacking in rough terrains and supporting heavier weights. The joints have been enhanced to be extra secure with added metal caps. Cork grip absorbs sweat out of your hands. Trek-Z hiking poles are meant to withstand pressure and impact far superior to carbon fiber poles. Pick up your map and start your adventure!
Compact Design that is Ready to Go When You Are: Trek-Z hiking poles collapsible design, fold down to a portable 15 inches (38 cm), thanks to its retractable tri-fold system. Fitting into backpack, luggage cases, or duffel bags for compact travel! Walking sticks for women- No more cumbersome walking sticks! Trek-Z walking poles give you the ability to build strength and muscle while you run errands. Let these unique poles go with you to all your outdoor leisure activities and adventures!
Sizing ... We've Got You Covered: The length of the pole can be adjusted quickly and easily using an innovative metal flip lock technology. Customize the height to your liking, and ensure it is secure with our metal stopper secure locking system. The height of the poles has adjustment range of 20cm from 110cm to 130cm that fits for men, women, teenager with height between 5'2'' (159cm) to 6'5'' (195cm). Each package comes in pair with holder bag.
Lighter Than Your Average Umbrella: Each pole weighs only 11.5 ounces (330g) perfect as an all-day walking stick or for backpacking in high mountains or on your favorite ski trails, or even crossing the stream. The staffs are engineered with 100% air-space grade material used on aircraft and in marine environments, when strength and lighter weights are needed. Whether you are for fishing, hiking, these folding poles are the only trek poles you will ever need

SaleBestseller No. 8

LEKI Ultratrail FX.One Superlite Carbon Collapsible Lightweight Trekking Poles for Hiking & Trail Running - Red-Yellow-Carbon - 115 cm

For Elite Runner on Race Day | Ultralight, collapsible poles designed specifically for racing and competition.
Collapsible | At the push of a button, the poles separate into three 13.8-inch sections for compact packability.
Carbon Construction | Keeps an ultralight quarter-ounce weight while remaining surprisingly rigid.
Trail Shark Grip | Cork grip conforms to your hand’s shape for better comfort, and the adjustable mesh strap detaches for the efficiency that trail runners appreciate.
Specs | [Activities] Trail Running; [Length] 105 cm, 110 cm, 115 cm, 120 cm, 125 cm, 130 cm; [Pack Size] 13.8 in; [Weight] 4.8oz; [Material] Carbon (HRC Max); [Folding System] Push-Button; [Basket, Tip] Trail Running; [Storage Bag] Folding Pole Bag

Choosing Your Ultra Running Trail Companions: A Buying Guide

Ultra running pushes your body to its limits. Trekking poles can be your secret weapon on long, tough trails. They give you extra support and help save your legs. But picking the right poles matters. This guide helps you find the best pair for your next ultra adventure.

Key Features to Look For

Good ultra running poles have specific features. These make your run smoother and less tiring. Think about these essentials:

Collapsibility and Length Adjustment

Telescoping vs. Folding: Telescoping poles adjust easily with twist locks. Folding poles snap together quickly, often using internal cords. Folding poles pack smaller.
Easy Adjustment: You need to change the pole length quickly, especially when climbing steep hills versus running flats. Look for simple, reliable locking mechanisms.

Grip Comfort and Material

Grip Type: Cork grips mold to your hand over time and handle sweat well. Foam grips are lighter and dry fast. Rubber grips offer good traction but can cause blisters on very long runs.
Strap System: The strap holds the pole to your wrist. Look for ergonomic straps that let you push off without gripping the pole tightly all the time. This reduces hand fatigue.

Weight

Lighter poles mean less energy spent lifting your arms mile after mile. Aim for the lightest poles you can afford without sacrificing strength.

Important Materials Matter

The material determines the pole’s weight, strength, and price.

Aluminum vs. Carbon Fiber

Aluminum: This material is very durable. It handles rough use well. If you often hit rocks or fall, aluminum poles might bend instead of snapping. They are usually cheaper.
Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber is super light. This saves a lot of energy on 100-mile races. However, carbon can snap under sharp impact. It usually costs more.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Small details greatly affect how poles perform during an ultra marathon.

Locking Mechanisms

Quality Locks: Strong, external flick-lock systems often hold tension better than internal twist locks over many hours of use. Poor locks slip, which wastes your energy and can be dangerous.

Tips and Baskets

Tungsten Carbide Tips: These hard tips grip rock and ice securely. They improve stability significantly.
Baskets: You need baskets to stop the pole from sinking too deep into mud or snow. Small baskets work best for dry trails. Larger, wider baskets are necessary for soft terrain.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you use the poles changes what you need.

Uphill Power: Poles help propel you forward. You want slightly shorter settings here.
Downhill Braking: Poles help absorb impact and maintain balance. You usually want slightly longer settings for better reach.
Portability: When you don’t need them (flat sections or aid stations), they must pack down small and attach securely to your running vest. Check the folded length against your pack size.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Ultra Running Poles

Q: Do I really need poles for every ultra?

A: Not every trail needs them. If the course has very little vertical gain or is mostly smooth, you might skip them. For races with steep climbs and long descents, poles offer huge benefits.

Q: What is the correct way to size my poles?

A: A common rule is this: When holding the pole with your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle (like you are ready to push), that is the right height for flat running. Adjust shorter for climbing and longer for descending.

Q: Can I use hiking poles instead of running poles?

A: You can, but running poles are usually lighter and pack down much smaller. Hiking poles often have thicker grips and heavier locking systems not designed for continuous arm movement during a run.

Q: How durable are carbon fiber poles if I fall?

A: Carbon fiber is strong enough for normal running stress. A hard, direct impact (like hitting a sharp rock just right) can cause them to crack or snap. Aluminum is more forgiving of direct impacts.

Q: Should I buy fixed-length or adjustable poles?

A: Adjustable poles are highly recommended for ultras. The trail terrain constantly changes, requiring you to change your pole length often.

Q: What is the purpose of the strap system?

A: The strap lets you transfer power from your arms to the ground without squeezing the grip hard. This keeps your hands relaxed and prevents cramping late in the race.

Q: How do I keep my hands from getting sweaty with cork grips?

A: Cork naturally absorbs sweat well. If you find them slick, some runners use very thin running gloves when the weather is hot and humid.

Q: Are trekking poles allowed in all races?

A: Most major ultra races allow them. Always check the specific race rules, especially for technical or mandatory gear sections, though this is rare.

Q: How should I carry the poles when I am not using them?

A: Most modern running vests have dedicated external pole attachments. Look for systems that let you secure the poles quickly without stopping or taking off your pack.

Q: Will using poles make my upper body weak?

A: No. They engage your upper body slightly, but the main benefit is saving your quads and knees. You still need to train your legs for the ultra distances.