How to fix a trekking pole that keeps collapsing under load?

A trekking pole that collapses under load is not just an annoyance—it is a safety hazard. On a steep descent or a rocky traverse, a sudden collapse can throw you off balance and cause a serious fall. The problem is almost always related to the locking mechanism: a loose, dirty, or worn lock. The fix depends on your pole's locking system. Here is a step‑by‑step guide to diagnosing and fixing each type.

1. Identify your locking system

Before you start, check which type of lock your pole uses:

• Lever locks (cam locks) – A mechanical clamp that tightens around the outer shaft when you close a lever. Found on Leki SpeedLock, Black Diamond FlickLock, and Decathlon cam locks.
• Twist locks – An internal expander that presses against the inner wall when you twist the lower section. Common on budget and older poles.
• Push‑button locks – Found on folding (Z‑pole) poles. A button clicks into a hole in the outer section.

2. Fixing lever locks (cam locks)

a. Clean the mechanism – Mud and grit are the most common cause of slipping. Open the lever fully and rinse the clamp and pivot area with water. Use a small brush (e.g., an old toothbrush) to remove any compacted dirt. Dry thoroughly.

b. Tighten the adjusting screw – Most lever locks have a small hex screw (usually 2.5 mm or 3 mm) on the lever. Turn it clockwise (tighten) in small increments. Close the lever. It should close with a firm, positive click. If it is too easy to close, tighten further. If it is too hard to close, loosen slightly.

c. Check the teeth – The clamp has small teeth that bite into the shaft. If they are worn or rounded, the clamp may not grip properly. If the teeth are worn, you may need to replace the lock assembly.

d. Clean the shaft – Wipe the section of the shaft where the clamp sits with a cloth. Any dirt or grease on this surface reduces friction.

3. Fixing twist locks

Twist locks rely on friction between an internal expander and the inner wall. They are more prone to slipping than lever locks, especially in wet or muddy conditions.

a. Clean the threads – Mud and grit in the threads can prevent the lock from tightening fully. Twist the sections while rinsing with water to work the grit out. If the threads are very dirty, you may need to disassemble the lock (consult the manufacturer's instructions).

b. Dry thoroughly – Moisture reduces friction. Ensure the internal expander and the inner shaft are completely dry before tightening.

c. Check the expander – Over time, the expander (the plastic part that expands) can wear down, reducing friction. If the expander is worn, you need to replace it. Replacement expanders are available from some brands or online.

d. Avoid over‑tightening – Over‑tightening a twist lock can damage the expander. Tighten only until the sections are secure.

4. Fixing push‑button locks (folding poles)

Folding poles use a push‑button that locks into a hole in the outer section. Collapsing can occur if the button is stuck, the spring is weak, or the hole is worn.

a. Clean the button – Rinse the button mechanism to remove grit. Push the button in and out several times while rinsing to free it.

b. Check the button – If the button is stuck, tap it gently with a small hammer or the handle of a tool. If it is broken, the section may need replacing.

c. Check the hole – If the hole is worn or enlarged, the button may not lock securely. This is a more serious issue and may require replacing the section.

5. Quick trail fix – adding friction

If you are on the trail and need a temporary fix, you can:

• Wrap a small piece of duct tape around the inner section – This adds thickness and friction, helping the lock grip.
• Use a rubber band – Wrap a rubber band around the inner section to increase friction.
• Apply a tiny amount of resin or pine tar – Increases friction on the clamping surface (use sparingly).

6. When to replace rather than repair

• If the lock mechanism is broken (cracked lever, seized expander, broken button) – replace the lock or the section.
• If the shaft is bent – a bent shaft can prevent proper locking. Straighten or replace.
• If the lock has been over‑tightened and the threads are stripped – replace the lock mechanism or the section.

7. Where to buy replacement parts

• Decathlon – Forclaz replacement locks and parts.
• Adventure Sport – Leki and Black Diamond genuine parts.
• Amazon UK – Generic replacement parts (check compatibility).
• Go Outdoors / Cotswold – May stock common parts.

8. Preventing collapse

• Clean locks after muddy walks – Grit is the main culprit.
• Check adjustment before every long walk – Test your locks by putting your weight on them at the start of the day.
• Lubricate moving parts – A tiny drop of silicone spray on lever lock pivots (not on the clamp) keeps them smooth.
• Avoid over‑tightening – Over‑tightening can damage the mechanism.

9. Safety warning

A collapsing pole on a steep descent can cause a serious fall. If you cannot fix the collapse, do not use the pole. Replace the lock mechanism or the section before your next walk. Your safety is more important than saving a few pounds on a replacement part.

10. Final verdict

A collapsing trekking pole is almost always fixable. Clean the lock, tighten the adjustment (lever locks), or replace the expander (twist locks). Use a temporary fix to get you off the hill, but replace worn parts as soon as possible. With regular cleaning and adjustment, you can prevent collapse and keep your poles reliable for many years. If in doubt, replace the lock mechanism or the section – it is a small price to pay for safety.