Should I buy foldable or telescopic trekking poles?

When shopping for trekking poles in 2026, one of the first decisions you’ll face is foldable (often called Z‑poles) vs. telescopic (three‑section twist or lever locks). Neither is universally better – the right choice depends on your hiking style, terrain, and how you pack. Let’s compare.

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How they work

• Telescopic poles consist of nested tubes that slide into one another. You unlock the mechanism (twist or lever), extend each section to your desired length, and lock them. They adjust continuously within a range (e.g., 100–135 cm).
• Foldable poles use a cord inside three or four sections that snap together like tent poles. A button or push‑button release collapses them. Length is fixed – you cannot fine‑tune height.

Pros and cons of telescopic poles
Telescopic poles offer infinite adjustability. On steep ascents, you shorten them; on descents, you lengthen them. This versatility is crucial for Alpine terrain or when sharing poles between different height users. They are also generally more durable – the overlapping tubes resist lateral stress better than foldable joints. However, they are bulkier when collapsed (typically 60–70 cm long) and slightly heavier. Locking mechanisms can fail if not maintained.

Pros and cons of foldable poles
Foldable poles shine in packability. Collapsed length is often 35–40 cm – small enough to fit inside a daypack or attach to a running vest. They deploy and stow in seconds, making them ideal for trail running, fastpacking, or as emergency poles. They are also lighter (around 150–200g per pole). The downsides: fixed length means you cannot adapt to terrain changes. The push‑button joints can wear over time or collect grit. And they are less robust for heavy side‑loading – not recommended for via ferrata or bushwhacking.

When to choose telescopic

• Hiking in steep, varied terrain (German Alps, Black Forest valleys).
• You share poles with family or friends of different heights.
• You carry a heavy backpack (more than 10 kg) – telescopic poles handle load transfer better.
• You prefer field‑repairable mechanisms (most lever locks can be tightened with a coin).

When to choose foldable

• Trail running or ultralight backpacking.
• You need poles to pack inside a carry‑on or small bag.
• Your hikes are on moderate, rolling terrain without extreme grade changes.
• You want quick stowage for hands‑free scrambling sections.

Final verdict for 2026
For most traditional hikers tackling Germany’s diverse trails, telescopic poles with lever locks (e.g., Leki Makalu, Black Diamond Trail Pro) are the smarter, more versatile choice. Their adjustability and durability outweigh the bulk. However, if you’re a trail runner, day hiker on gentle loops, or need extreme packability, foldable Z‑poles (like Black Diamond Distance Carbon) are excellent. Try both in a store – collapse them, extend them, feel the lock – then decide based on your primary terrain. Happy trails!