Which trekking poles are suitable for the Pembrokeshire Coast Path?

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a 186‑mile (299 km) National Trail that follows the rugged coastline of south‑west Wales. It is one of Britain's most spectacular—and demanding—long‑distance walks, with relentless ascents and descents, exposed cliff‑top sections, rocky beaches, muddy headlands, and changeable coastal weather. The right trekking poles will make a significant difference to your comfort, safety, and enjoyment. The best poles for this trail are durable aluminium models with lever locks, replaceable carbide tips, cork grips, and small mud baskets. The Decathlon Forclaz MT900 offers the best value at £55, while premium walkers often choose the Leki Makalu or Black Diamond Trail Back. Here is a detailed breakdown of what works and why.

Understanding the Pembrokeshire Coast Path terrain

The trail is characterised by:

• Cliff‑top walking – Exposed, often windy, with uneven grass and rocky outcrops. Poles provide essential stability.
• Steep ascents and descents – The path climbs in and out of countless coves and valleys, with cumulative ascent of over 16,000 metres—more than the Pennine Way. Your knees will face constant impact.
• Rocky beaches and headlands – Sections with loose stones and pebbles, where poles help with balance and testing footing.
• Muddy headlands and farmland – After rain, the path can become slippery and boggy.
• Coastal dampness – Salt spray, mist, and rain are frequent. Poles must resist corrosion and maintain grip when wet.

Essential features for the Pembrokeshire Coast Path

1. Aluminium over carbon – Carbon poles are lighter but brittle. The rocky sections and potential for side impacts on coastal paths make aluminium (especially 7075 alloy) a safer, more durable choice. Aluminium bends and can be straightened; carbon splinters and is terminal.
2. Lever locks – Twist locks are prone to slipping when wet or muddy. Lever (cam) locks (Leki SpeedLock, Black Diamond FlickLock, Decathlon's cam system) are more secure and field‑adjustable.
3. Replaceable carbide tips – The abrasive nature of the coastal rocks and grit will wear down tips quickly. Poles with replaceable tips are more economical. Carry a spare pair for a 186‑mile walk.
4. Cork grips – In damp, salty conditions, cork grips become tacky and provide superior grip compared to foam or rubber. They also insulate against cold.
5. Small mud baskets – Useful for preventing the pole from sinking into soft, muddy headland sections. Remove them on rocky beaches to avoid catching on stones.
6. Corrosion resistance – Salt spray is a factor on coastal paths. Rinse poles with fresh water after each day and ensure locks are lubricated with a silicone‑based spray.

Top recommendations for the Pembrokeshire Coast Path

1. Decathlon Forclaz MT900 (£55) – The best value pole for this trail. Features: 7075 aluminium, reliable lever locks, cork grips, replaceable carbide tips. Weight: ~250 g per pole. Collapses to 65 cm. It accepts Decathlon's own mud baskets (£5–10), which are ideal for the wet headlands. Proven on UK long‑distance trails.
2. Leki Makalu (£90–100) – A premium choice for frequent walkers. Features: SpeedLock Plus (the most secure lever lock), 7075 aluminium, a steel lower section for extra abrasion resistance, cork grips. Slightly heavier at 270 g per pole but virtually indestructible. A lifetime investment if you walk regularly.
3. Black Diamond Trail Back (£75–85) – Similar to the Makalu but with Black Diamond's FlickLock system. Lighter (240 g per pole) and with a more ergonomic grip. Excellent if you prefer FlickLock over SpeedLock. Available at Cotswold and Go Outdoors.
4. Budget alternative – Decathlon Forclaz MT100 (~£25) – Not recommended for this trail. Twist locks slip in wet conditions, tips are non‑replaceable, and foam grips become uncomfortable in damp weather. Avoid.

Why carbon poles are a risk

Carbon poles (e.g., Leki Micro Vario Carbon, Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z) are lighter and offer better vibration damping. However, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path's rocky beaches and uneven cliff edges make them a risky choice. A single side impact can cause splintering. The weight saving of ~100 g per pole is not worth the potential for breakage on a remote coastal section. Stick with aluminium.

Mud baskets – don't forget them

The headland sections of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path can be muddy and boggy, especially after rain. Without mud baskets, your poles will sink deep into soft ground, reducing their support. Decathlon, Leki, and Black Diamond all sell mud baskets (around £5–15 per pair). Fit them for the headland sections and remove them on rocky beaches and cliff paths to avoid catching on stones.

Spare parts and maintenance for the coast

• Carbide tips: Carry at least one spare pair. The abrasive rocks and pebbles on the coast will wear down tips significantly over 186 miles. Change them when the carbide is visibly worn (rounded edges).
• Hex key: A small 2.5 or 3 mm hex key allows you to tighten lever locks if they loosen over time.
• Rinse after each day: Salt spray and sand are corrosive. Rinse poles with fresh water and dry thoroughly. Lubricate locks with silicone spray to prevent seizing.
• Check baskets: Coastal path stones can crack baskets. Inspect them daily and replace if damaged.

Practical tips for the Pembrokeshire Coast Path

• Adjust pole length – Shorten by 5 cm for the frequent ascents; lengthen by 5 cm for the steep descents. The constant up‑and‑down makes this adjustment worthwhile.
• Use rubber tips on road sections – The path includes some road walking. Rubber protectors save your carbide tips and reduce noise.
• Wear gloves – The coastal wind can chill your hands. Lightweight gloves improve grip on cork handles.
• Secure wrist straps – In strong coastal winds, a loose strap can let a pole be blown from your hand. Adjust straps to fit comfortably but securely.

Where to buy before your walk

• Decathlon UK – Forclaz MT900 (best value, online and in‑store).
• Go Outdoors – Price‑match and discount card can make Leki and Black Diamond more affordable.
• Cotswold Outdoor – Expert advice and in‑store testing.
• SportPursuit – Flash sales on premium brands (if timed right).

Final verdict

For the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, the Decathlon Forclaz MT900 is the best value choice, offering all the essential features for this demanding coastal trail. If you walk regularly and want the best build quality, invest in the Leki Makalu or Black Diamond Trail Back. Remember to add mud baskets, carry spare tips, and avoid carbon and twist locks. With the right poles, you will navigate the steep ascents, rocky beaches, and exposed cliff tops with confidence and comfort, protecting your knees and