or pick your starting city — the number is how many trails we list.
Hiking gear buying guides
François Dumaine
Published April 1, 2026 · Updated April 3, 2026
The trails in this guide at a glance
| Trail | Duration | Distance | Dog |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parc National du Mont-Saint-Bruno Montérégie | park page, not a trail | not listed | |
| Mont du Lac des Cygnes Charlevoix | 4 hr | 8.6 km | yes |
| Hautes-Gorges trail Charlevoix | park page, not a trail | yes | |
| Mont Yamaska Montérégie | not listed | not listed | not listed |
| Canyon Sainte-Anne Québec City Region | 1 hr 15 min | 3.0 km | yes |
Figures read from the LGPO trail pages on November 9, 2026. “Not listed” is shown as is.
Ah, hiking poles! I'll admit that at the beginning of my trail adventures, I was the type to roll my eyes when I saw hikers with their "crutches." What a mistake! After slipping on a wet rock in Charlevoix and finding myself flat on my back, I quickly understood the usefulness of these little companions. Today, after testing tons of models on our Quebec trails, I can tell you that the best hiking poles in 2026 can really transform your outings.
Whether you're a beginner or seasoned hiker, choosing the right poles means investing in your comfort, safety, and performance. In this guide, I'll share my 7 favorites of the year, with real field feedback to help you make the right choice.
After hundreds of hours of testing on our trails, here's my selection of models that really stand out this year:
Price: $179 CAD | Weight: 340g per pair
My absolute favorite! These foldable carbon poles have been with me everywhere for two years. Super light, they pack easily in the bag when I want my hands free for photos. The Z-fold system is brilliant - takes 5 seconds to deploy.
Strengths:
Price: $220 CAD | Weight: 380g per pair
If you want the best available, look to Leki. Their telescopic carbon poles are of exceptional quality. The SpeedLock 2 locking system is an engineering marvel.
Strengths:
Price: $89 CAD | Weight: 520g per pair
For starting without breaking the bank, it's hard to do better. These aluminum poles get the job done without fuss. I often recommend them to beginners who want to test before investing in high-end gear.
Price: $195 CAD | Weight: 360g per pair
The Austrian brand hits hard with this ultra-compact 4-section model. Perfect if you travel a lot - they fit in a suitcase without problem.
Price: $65 CAD | Weight: 450g per pair
Surprising for the price! These carbon poles offer excellent value. Perfect for starting without investing too much.
Price: $165 CAD | Weight: 280g per pair
The lightest in my selection! Designed for ultralight hiking purists who count every gram.
Price: $205 CAD | Weight: 370g per pair
A high-end alternative to Black Diamond, with an even more refined design and premium materials.
| Model | Price (CAD) | Weight | Material | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z | $179 | 340g | Carbon | Foldable |
| Leki Makalu FX Carbon | $220 | 380g | Carbon | Telescopic |
| REI Co-op Traverse | $89 | 520g | Aluminum | Telescopic |
| Komperdell Carbon Ultralight | $195 | 360g | Carbon | Telescopic |
| Cascade Mountain Tech | $65 | 450g | Carbon | Telescopic |
You don't need the same poles for a walk at Parc National du Mont-Saint-Bruno as for climbing Mont du Lac des Cygnes! Here's how to figure it out:
If you mainly do day trips on our Quebec trails, prioritize versatility. Telescopic carbon poles are your best friend. They adjust easily according to terrain and stay light to avoid fatigue.
My advice: aim for a model between 350-400g per pair. It's the sweet spot between lightness and robustness.
Every gram counts? Then go for foldable carbon models under 350g. They take less space in the pack and you can store them easily when you don't need them.
Quebec winter is no joke! Your poles must resist cold and impacts. Aluminum can be more reliable than carbon in extreme cold - carbon can become brittle below -20°C.
Also think about baskets: you'll need large snow baskets to prevent your poles from sinking too deep.
The big question! After breaking poles of both materials (yes, it happened to me...), here's my verdict:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
"After 15 years on trails, I've learned it's better to have aluminum poles that work than broken carbon poles at the bottom of the pack!"
Beyond material, several elements can transform your hiking experience:
You'll hold your poles for hours, so it better be comfortable! The best grips mix cork and foam. Cork absorbs sweat and molds to your hand over time.
Avoid hard plastic - it slips when wet and can create blisters. I learned that the hard way on the Hautes-Gorges trail!
For telescopic poles, the locking system is crucial. External levers (FlickLock type) are more practical than internal twist systems. You can adjust them even with gloves.
A good strap lets you release your grip without losing the pole. It saves forearm energy on long distances. Look for padded and adjustable straps.
Tungsten tips grip better on rock than standard steel. And think about baskets: small for summer, large for snow. Some models allow easy changes.
The $100 question! Literally, because it's often around this amount that it's worth investing.
It's possible to find decent poles in this range, but watch the quality of locks. I've seen too many hikers with poles that retract on their own!
In this range, favor aluminum from a recognized brand rather than dubious no-name carbon.
This is the sweet spot! You can get high-end aluminum or entry-level carbon. Most hikers find their happiness in this range.
Here, you enter premium territory: quality carbon, perfect finishes, extended warranties. If you hike regularly, it's worth the investment.
My first quality poles, I've had them for 8 years and they're still perfect. The secret? Minimal but regular maintenance.
Rinse your poles with clear water, especially if you walked in mud or sand. Particles can infiltrate mechanisms and jam them.
Dry them completely before storing. Moisture is the number one enemy of internal mechanisms.
Once or twice per season, disassemble your telescopic poles and clean the internal tubes. A little silicone lubricant on mechanisms, and you're good to go!
Also check tip wear. If they're very dull, you can often replace them rather than changing the whole pole.
After all that, you're still wondering which model to choose? Here are my recommendations according to your profile:
My choice: REI Co-op Traverse
Reliable, affordable, and perfect for learning. You can always upgrade later when you've defined your preferences.
My choice: Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
The perfect balance between performance, weight and practicality. These poles have been with me everywhere for years.
My choice: Leki Makalu FX Carbon
The Rolls-Royce of hiking poles. Expensive, but exceptional quality that justifies the investment.
My choice: Gossamer Gear LT5
Ultra-light without compromising functionality. Perfect for ultralight hiking.
My choice: Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber
Surprising for the price! Accessible carbon that does the job.
If you want to test before buying, several outdoor stores offer rentals. It's an excellent way to compare different models on terrain. I discovered my preferences this way by testing on Mont Yamaska trails.
There you have it, you now have all the cards in hand to choose your 2026 hiking poles! To summarize my key points:
My poles have saved me so many times: slippery descents, stream crossings, steep climbs where my knees were crying for mercy... They've become a natural extension of my body on trails.
So don't wait any longer! Choose your new adventure companions and go discover all those magnificent trails waiting for you. Whether for a family walk at Canyon Sainte-Anne or a more challenging adventure, your poles will transform your outings.
And don't forget: the best equipment is the one that makes you want to get out more often. So gear up well, but most importantly, go play outside!
Keep exploring
What we checked
Written by François Dumaine
