Sometimes, you need a helping hand on some of the more strenuous and difficult terrains. To me and thousands of others, TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are just that and more. I’ve been in situations throughout my hiking journey that would have turned out pretty bad if I didn’t have these bad boys with me. 

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are used for extra stability and support on hikes and walks. They are perfect for snowy, wet, and rocky terrains. They are made of tough and light aluminum, making them durable and long-lasting walking sticks. 

Here’s my experience and thoughts on the super popular trekking poles from Amazon.  

The Good

I’ve been using these trekking poles for well over a year now, and they haven’t disappointed thus far.

These have been my buddies on snowy and sketchy trails. Trust me, they have saved me from scary situations.

Here are some of the good things I can say about these affordable trekking poles.

Function 

The TrailBuddy trekking poles are highly functional. They come with accessories and parts for all types of terrains. They are made from tough, yet lightweight aluminum which helps with extra support and durability.

Another function I like is how easy it is to adjust the height of the poles. Lastly, its cork handles make them really grippy and comfortable to hold!

I really enjoy how simple, easy, and lightweight they are. 

All Terrains

You can pretty much use them for all terrains and situations. Snowy, muddy, and rocky terrains are where the TrailBuddy trekking poles shine at what they do. 

Low Price

The TrailBuddy Trekking Poles are super affordable, considering the fact that they’re good-quality walking poles and come with tons of accessories.

This also makes them a perfect gift for those who are just getting into hiking or who need extra support when going on walks.

Lightweight

I really love how light these trekking poles are in comparison to other brands.

The TrailBuddy website mentions that both poles together weigh 19.4 oz. If you only use one, that’s only 9.7 ounces. 

If you plan to use the baskets and rubber tips for snowy or hard terrains, each pole will weigh 10.2 oz.

Color Variations 

The color variation of these trekking poles is another thing that makes them stand out. 

You have the option of choosing 8 different fun colors, although some of the colors are sometimes out of stock on Amazon. 

I chose to go with the vibrant pink color and my partner was kindly gifted the green ones. 

The Bad

Of course, no product is perfect. There are a few issues to note that I’ve seen others complain about. Although I haven’t had these issues, it’s good to know about them.

Loose Locks

Although it hasn’t happened to me, some users have mentioned that their locks become loose at times. This can get really annoying to have to keep readjusting on trails.

Might Not Support Everyone

Another person mentioned that although they are lightweight, they snap a lot easier. This specific person mentioned they were on the heavier side and that too much pressure and weight made it break.

This could possibly be an issue, but I’ve seen backpackers lug around tons of weight for hours with these poles. 

However, if this concerns you, you might want to look around for stronger built trekking poles.  

What Parts Do the TrailBuddy Trekking Poles Come With?

I really do appreciate all the different accessories that come with these trekking poles. There are a total of 11 accessories and parts in this set. 

Here’s what my Trailbuddy Trekking Poles set came with: 

• 4 rubber tips
• 2 mud baskets
• 2 snow baskets
• 2 connectors (to hold both poles together)
• 1 carrying bag

(As an Amazon Affiliate, I receive a small commission if you purchase from the links above. However, I do personally own and recommend these products.)

When to Use Each Part and Accessory

(Rubber Tips)

I use two rubber tips when I’m walking on hard terrain, like those that are rocky or on the pavement. 

 

(Mud Baskets)

When walking on muddy terrain or areas with deep grass that might have soft soil, I use circular-shaped mud baskets. 

 

(Snow Baskets)

Lastly, the snow baskets definitely come in handy on snowy and icy terrain. However, thicker layers of snow will require extra gear, such as snowshoes and possible shoe chains.

Length of TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

The TrailBuddy Trekking poles extend to 54 inches and collapse down to 24.5 inches. 

Now, that’s pretty good. However, I wish they could collapse to be even smaller. They won’t fit in most suitcases and don’t exactly fit in most backpacks either unless you’re carrying a pretty long backpack. 

This is why I only take my trekking poles on hikes that I know I will truly need them on.

How to Adjust Trekking Poles

Step 1: Unlock the top and bottom clamp levers.

Step 2: Put your hands through the pole’s straps. Adjust the pole straps so that they are tight enough to support and slightly roomy for movement. 

Step 3: Make sure your elbow is bent at a 90-degree angle. The tip of the poles should be next to your feet. 

Step 4: Adjust the top and bottom sections of the poles so that they are evenly proportioned. This keeps one section from having too much pressure and allows your trekking poles to last longer. 

Step 5: Lock the cam levers in place.

TIPS: If you’re going uphill, shorting the length of the pole by about 5-10cm. For downhill, adjust the poles to be 5-10cm longer. These are general tips. Adjust according to what works for you. 

Are Trekking Poles Suitable For Backpacking?

Although some hikers are hesitant about carrying extra weight, carrying trekking poles on your next backpacking adventure can be helpful for the following 3 reasons. 

Helps with your knees. Carrying lots of weight for hours or days can really put a strain on your knees. The trekking poles would help transfer some of that weight off. 

Useful for crossing creeks and other terrains. There’s no doubt that carrying a large backpack with lots of essentials can throw your balance off a bit once you become more tired. The trekking poles will make the journey easier. 

Poles can help you examine the ground for proper footing. Let’s say you’re backpacking through thick snow, it can be pretty difficult to know how deep that snow really is. The trekking poles would help prevent you from sinking in. (This is just one of many possible scenarios.)

Of course, there are a lot more uses for trekking poles on backpacking trips. I’d personally take trekking poles for extra support if I knew the trail conditions would be a bit harsh and difficult.

Make sure you understand the terrain, possible weather conditions, as well as your personal endurance and stamina to better decide if it’s worth carrying or not. 

Who Needs TrailBuddy Trekking Poles?

I think the TrailBuddy trekking poles are perfect for newbies and even those who have been hiking for a long time.

They come in handy for all different terrains and situations. Unless you’re a hardcore hiker and have mastered hiking in tough terrains without any type of support, then you might not find the need to buy one now. 

But, for the rest of us, these are just one of those hiking accessories that almost every hiker I know owns or has owned at some point.

Hope this review has been helpful!