Do trekking poles with extended foam grips help on steep sections?

If you’ve ever climbed a steep switchback and found yourself reaching far down the shaft to get a lower grip, only to have your hand slip or your wrist bend awkwardly, you’ll appreciate the value of extended foam grips. The short answer is yes, extended foam grips are extremely helpful on steep sections. Here’s why they matter and how to use them effectively.

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What are extended foam grips?

A standard trekking pole grip covers only the top 10–15 cm of the shaft, usually made of cork or foam. An extended foam grip continues another 10–20 cm down the shaft, made of lightweight EVA foam. This extra length allows you to “choke up” (grab the pole lower down) without needing to stop and adjust the pole’s length.

Why steep sections demand a lower grip

When you climb a steep hill, your natural arm position is lower than on flat ground. If you keep your hands on the top grip at the pole’s normal length, your arms will be forced too high – straining your shoulders and reducing your ability to push down effectively. The correct technique is to shorten the effective pole length by gripping lower. Without an extended foam section, you have two choices:

1. Stop and physically shorten the pole (takes time, and you may need to do it repeatedly).
2. Grip the bare aluminium or carbon shaft – which is cold, slippery, and uncomfortable.

Extended foam solves this instantly: you simply slide your hand down the foam and keep walking.

Three key benefits on steep climbs

1. Instant adjustment – No need to stop, unlock a lever, collapse a section, and relock. You just move your hand a few centimetres down. This saves time and maintains your rhythm, especially on a long climb with variable steepness.
2. Better leverage – Gripping lower on the pole gives you a shorter lever, which allows you to push down more vertically and with greater force. This engages your triceps and lats more effectively, taking load off your thighs and knees.
3. Reduced wrist strain – When you choke up, your wrist remains in a neutral, straight alignment. Gripping a narrow metal shaft without foam forces your wrist to bend, increasing the risk of tendinitis or carpal tunnel issues over a long day.

How to use extended foam grips correctly

• On moderate slopes: Use the top grip as normal.
• On steep slopes: Slide your hand down to the foam extension. You don’t need to grip hard – the foam is comfortable and warm.
• For very steep, short pitches: You can even hold the extreme lower end of the foam (near the lock) for maximum leverage.
• On descents: Return to the top grip; you want a longer pole for braking.

What if my poles don’t have extended foam?

You can still climb steep sections by physically shortening your poles (reduce length by 5–10 cm). This gives you the same lower hand position, but it’s less convenient. Some hikers simply grab the bare shaft – this works, but the metal is slippery when wet and cold to the touch. Extended foam is a clear upgrade.

Top models with extended foam grips

• Leki Makalu – Cork top grip with an extended foam section below (hybrid).
• Black Diamond Trail Pro – Full foam grip with a long extension.
• Komperdell C4 Carbon Pro – Full foam grip, extended design.
• Decathlon Forclaz MT500 – Cork/foam hybrid with a modest extension.

Final verdict

Yes, trekking poles with extended foam grips significantly help on steep sections. They allow you to instantly choke up to a more powerful, comfortable position without stopping to adjust pole length. The foam is warm, non‑slip, and reduces wrist strain. For any hiker who regularly tackles steep climbs – whether in the Alps, Lake District, or Snowdonia – extended foam is a feature worth prioritising. If your current poles lack it, consider upgrading or adding aftermarket foam tubing. Your arms and shoulders will notice the difference.