Should I buy folding or telescopic trekking poles for backpacking in the UK?

When preparing for a backpacking trip in the UK – whether it’s the rugged peaks of the Lake District, the rocky trails of Snowdonia, or the boggy passes of the Scottish Highlands – choosing the right trekking poles can make a significant difference to your comfort and safety. The two main types are folding (Z‑pole) and telescopic (adjustable) poles. Each has strengths and weaknesses, but for UK backpacking, telescopic poles with external flick‑locks are generally the better choice. This article explains why.

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Understanding the two designs

• Folding (Z‑poles): Composed of three or four sections connected by an internal elastic cord. They snap together and lock via a push‑button mechanism. Popular for trail running and fastpacking because they pack very small and are lightweight.
• Telescopic (telescoping): Two or three sections that slide inside each other, secured by external flick‑locks (or twist‑locks). They are continuously adjustable and usually more robust.

Why telescopic poles suit UK backpacking

1. Adjustability for variable terrain

British trails are rarely flat. You will go from steep ascents to knee‑crushing descents within a single hour. Telescopic poles allow you to shorten by 5‑10 cm for uphill (keeping your torso upright) and lengthen by the same for downhill (improving braking and balance). Folding poles have a fixed length – you cannot adjust them on the fly. On variable UK terrain, this is a major limitation.

2. Durability on rocky ground

Folding poles rely on small push‑buttons and thin‑walled carbon or aluminium sections. A sharp impact on a rock – common on UK scrambles – can snap the button or crack the shaft. Telescopic poles (especially those with 7075 aluminium and external flick‑locks) are much more rugged. The locking levers are replaceable, and the shafts are typically thicker.

3. Lock reliability in mud and rain

UK trails are often wet and muddy. Folding poles use a simple snap‑button that can clog with grit, making it hard to lock or unlock. Telescopic poles with flick‑locks (e.g., Leki SpeedLock, Black Diamond FlickLock) are easy to clean and operate even with muddy hands. Twist‑locks are not recommended – they slip and freeze.

4. Better for pitching shelters

Many UK backpackers use tarp or trekking‑pole tents (e.g., Zpacks, Tarptent, Lanshan). Telescopic poles are infinitely adjustable to match your shelter’s required height. Folding poles come in fixed lengths (e.g., 120 cm). Unless your tent exactly matches that length, you will have to prop up your shelter with a less‑than‑ideal setup.

When folding poles might be acceptable

Folding poles shine in specific scenarios:

• Fastpacking or trail running – When you need the lightest possible poles and move quickly over moderate terrain.
• Very gentle, smooth trails – If you plan to walk the South West Coast Path or the Norfolk Coast Path, where rocky impacts are rare.
• Space‑constrained travel – Folding poles pack into a small bag for flights. But remember, they must still go in checked luggage.

For classic UK backpacking – which involves rocky passes, steep descents, and variable conditions – folding poles are a compromise.

Other factors to consider

• Weight: Folding poles are lighter (typically 150‑200g per pole) than telescopic (240‑300g). The difference is about 150g for a pair – noticeable but not a deal‑breaker for most backpackers.
• Packability: Folding poles collapse to ~40cm, fitting inside a pack. Telescopic poles collapse to ~65cm, often strapped to the outside. For UK hiking, outside attachment is fine.
• Repairability: Telescopic flick‑lock parts (levers, screws, tips) are widely replaceable. Folding pole internal cords can snap and are harder to field‑repair.

Recommended telescopic poles for UK backpacking

• Leki Makalu Lite – 7075 aluminium, SpeedLock, cork grip. A classic, durable choice.
• Black Diamond Trail Pro – Thicker aluminium, metal FlickLock, extended foam grip. Very tough.
• Komperdell Contour Powerlock – Good value, reliable lock.

All accept replaceable carbide tips and powder baskets (useful for snow).

The bottom line

For backpacking in the UK – where you face wet, rocky, steep, and unpredictable terrain – telescopic trekking poles with external flick‑locks are the smarter investment. They offer essential on‑trail length adjustment, superior durability, and better shelter compatibility. Folding poles are great for running or fastpacking on gentle ground, but for multi‑day backpacking trips across the British hills, go telescopic. Your knees and your sanity will thank you.

Final verdict: Choose telescopic for UK backpacking.