Ever watched an ultra-runner conquer a steep mountain pass, seemingly floating uphill? Often, the secret weapon they carry isn’t just incredible fitness; it’s a pair of trekking poles. But when you look at the wall of poles at the running store, do you feel lost? Choosing the right poles for ultra-running feels tricky. You worry about weight, locking mechanisms, and whether they will actually help your knees on those long descents.
Selecting the wrong poles can mean extra weight slowing you down or poles that break mid-race—every runner’s nightmare. We know you want gear that supports you, not hinders you. That’s why we dove deep into what truly matters when you are pounding out fifty or one hundred miles.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly how to match the perfect set of poles to your running style and the terrain you tackle. By the end, you will confidently choose poles that save energy, boost your speed, and keep your legs happy. Let’s explore how to find your perfect running partners for the trail!
Top Poles For Ultra Running Recommendations
- 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
- 【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.
- 🌲[ Shatterproof and ultra light hiking poles ] - These collapsible hiking poles for men and women play in the top Mountain Equipment league. The carbon trekking poles weigh only 8 ounces each and are extremely stable and break-resistant. With patented push button design - No slipping together as with conventional manufacturers!
- 🌲[ Hiking pole for men and women ] - The foldable telescopic hiking poles carbon fiber from Alpin Loacker measure only 14 inches when pushed together. The trekking poles are individually adjustable from 45 - 53 inches - perfect for anyone with a body height starting from 5,4 foot.
- 🌲[ Folding hiking sticks with accessories ] - The walking poles come with 4 attachments and rubber bumpers and are adjustable as ski poles, hiking poles, nordic walking poles for seniors or as a retractable hiking stick.
- 🌲[ Small trekking poles with free bag ]- With the bag you can easily transport the trekking poles for hiking carbon fiber and Nordic walking poles men and women everywhere and your backpack stays clean! The ideal collapsible hiking sticks for travel!
- 🌲 [ Warranty ]- Alpin Loacker is an outdoor brand from Austria, which has been on the market since 1993. All lightweight hiking poles have been tested intensively in the Alps in Austria!
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- ULTRALIGHT, HIGH-PERFORMANCE BUILD: Made from 100% carbon fiber for exceptional strength-to-weight performance. Ideal for long-distance treks, mountain runs, and fastpacking where every gram counts.
- ADJUSTABLE Z-POLE TECHNOLOGY: Combines the quick-deploying foldable Z-Pole design with FlickLock adjustability for fine-tuned telescoping length changes. Offers both compact packability and customized fit on the trail.
- FAST, SECURE DEPLOYMENT: Three-section design snaps into place quickly with a reinforced joint support system for durability. Folds down small for easy storage in running vests or packs.
- COMFORTABLE EVA FOAM GRIPS: Lightweight EVA foam handles provide comfort, sweat absorption, and a natural feel. Non-slip mini-grip extensions make steep climbs and descents more efficient.
- VERSATILE ALL-TERRAIN PERFORMANCE: Carbide Tech Tips ensure reliable traction on dirt, rock, and snow. Interchangeable rubber tips and baskets adapt for year-round use in all environments.
Choosing Your Perfect Running Poles: An Ultra Runner’s Buying Guide
Running poles can seriously boost your ultra-running game. They help you save energy on long climbs and give you extra stability on tough downhills. But with so many options, how do you pick the right pair? This guide breaks down what matters most when buying poles for ultra running.
Key Features to Look For
Good running poles have features that make them easy to use and carry. These elements directly affect your running comfort and efficiency.
Adjustability and Locking System
- Telescopic or Folding: Most ultra-running poles collapse. Telescopic poles adjust length easily. Folding poles break down into very small pieces, which is great for stashing them away when you do not need them.
- Secure Locks: The locking mechanism must hold firm. A pole that collapses mid-stride is dangerous and frustrating. Look for strong levers or twist locks that stay locked, even when pushing hard uphill.
Grip Comfort
You will hold these poles for hours. The grip needs to feel good. Look for materials that wick away sweat. Cork grips feel natural and mold to your hand. Foam or EVA grips are lighter and dry faster.
Strap System
The strap connects your hand to the pole. A good strap lets you push off without gripping the pole tightly all the time. This saves your forearms energy. Look for comfortable, padded straps that are easy to adjust while moving.
Important Materials
The material of the pole shaft determines its weight and durability. This is a major trade-off in pole buying.
Carbon Fiber
- Pros: Carbon fiber is extremely light. This reduces fatigue over 100 miles. It also absorbs trail vibrations well.
- Cons: Carbon poles cost more. They can snap if bent sharply or hit hard rocks the wrong way.
Aluminum
- Pros: Aluminum is much more durable. It bends before it breaks, which is safer during a tough race. It is also cheaper.
- Cons: Aluminum poles weigh more than carbon ones. More weight means you use more energy with every swing.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Small details make a big difference in the field.
Weight
For ultra running, lighter is almost always better. Every ounce you carry requires energy. Aim for poles under 20 ounces per pair if possible.
Tip Durability
The tip grips the ground. Carbide or tungsten tips offer the best grip on rock, ice, and hard dirt. Plastic or rubber tips wear down quickly and slip easily on wet surfaces.
Ease of Packing
If you plan to use your poles only on steep sections, you need poles that pack down small. Folding poles that snap together quickly are often preferred for this reason. Poles that are hard to collapse waste precious time at aid stations.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the poles should guide your choice.
Uphill Efficiency
Poles help you drive power upward. When climbing steep, loose terrain, sturdy, adjustable poles that lock securely allow you to transfer leg power directly into forward motion. You feel less strain on your quads.
Downhill Stability
On fast, technical descents, poles act like extra legs. They offer balance and absorb impact. Look for poles that are easy to deploy quickly so you do not lose momentum when the terrain changes suddenly.
Storage
Consider where the poles go when you are not using them. Some runners wear a small pack with dedicated pole straps. If your poles are bulky when collapsed, storing them becomes a chore. Slim, folding poles usually fit inside smaller running vests easily.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Ultra Running Poles
Q: Do I really need poles for ultra running?
A: Many ultra runners find poles very helpful. They save energy on long climbs and improve balance on rough downhills. They are not required, but they can reduce muscle fatigue.
Q: Should I choose carbon fiber or aluminum poles?
A: Carbon fiber poles are lighter, which saves energy. Aluminum poles are stronger and usually cheaper. Choose carbon for maximum weight savings or aluminum for maximum durability.
Q: How long should my running poles be?
A: Poles should generally reach your elbow when standing upright with the tip on the ground. Adjustable poles let you change the length: shorter for climbs and longer for flats or descents.
Q: What is the difference between folding and telescopic poles?
A: Folding poles break into three or four short pieces, packing very small. Telescopic poles slide and lock at the desired length but remain longer when collapsed.
Q: Are the grips important?
A: Yes, the grips are very important. Cork grips handle sweat well. Foam grips are light. Make sure the grip material feels comfortable in your hand for many hours.
Q: What kind of tip works best?
A: Tungsten or carbide tips offer the best grip on most natural surfaces like rock and dirt. They last longer than softer metal tips.
Q: How do I use the straps correctly?
A: You should slide your hand up through the bottom of the strap, then grab the grip over the strap. This lets you push down on the strap for power without squeezing the pole hard.
Q: Can I use hiking poles for ultra running?
A: You can, but running poles are usually lighter and pack smaller than traditional hiking poles. Running poles are designed for faster movement.
Q: What if my poles break during a race?
A: This is why durability matters. Aluminum poles bend more often than they snap. If using carbon, check the warranty. Some races offer repair kits or loaner poles at aid stations.
Q: How do I clean my running poles?
A: Wipe them down after each use, especially after muddy runs. You can use mild soap and water. Make sure the locking mechanisms dry completely before collapsing them for storage.