What is the best trekking pole from the Hi-Gear range at Go Outdoors?
The Hi-Gear Explorer (flick-lock) is the best trekking pole in the Hi-Gear range at Go Outdoors. Priced at around £25 per pair, it offers 7075 aluminium (which is lighter and stronger than budget steel), a reliable flick-lock mechanism, and cork grips for comfort. It is a significant upgrade over the cheaper Hi-Gear Trail (twist-lock), which suffers from the common budget-pole problem of twist-locks jamming with mud and slipping in wet UK conditions.
The Hi-Gear range: what's on offer
Hi-Gear is Go Outdoors's own budget brand. They typically offer two main models:
- Hi-Gear Explorer (flick-lock)
- Hi-Gear Trail (twist-lock)
There may be occasional variants (e.g., a carbon fibre option or a junior model), but these two are the core offerings.
Why the Explorer wins
1. The lock: flick-lock vs. twist-lock
This is the single most important difference. The Explorer uses a flick‑lock (lever‑lock), while the Trail uses a twist‑lock.
- Flick‑lock: A simple lever that you push down to lock the pole. It is external, easy to clean, and can be tightened with a hex key if it becomes loose. In the UK's wet, muddy conditions, a flick‑lock is far more reliable than a twist‑lock. It does not clog with mud and does not slip under load.
- Twist‑lock: An internal expander that is tightened by twisting the lower section. In wet or muddy conditions, the expander can become clogged with grit, causing it to slip or seize. It is also harder to clean and adjust. This is the classic budget-pole failure point.
Verdict: The flick‑lock on the Explorer is a major upgrade in reliability.
2. Material: 7075 aluminium
The Explorer uses 7075‑T6 aluminium, a high‑grade alloy that is both lightweight and strong. It is the same material used in premium poles. The Trail likely uses a lower‑grade aluminium or steel, making it heavier and more prone to bending.
3. Grip: cork vs. foam
The Explorer features cork grips, which are comfortable, moisture‑wicking, and conform to the shape of your hand. Cork is the grip of choice for long‑distance walkers. The Trail uses foam grips, which are cheaper and less durable. Foam can become slippery with sweat.
Price and value
- Hi-Gear Explorer: Approximately £25 per pair (with a Go Outdoors membership card). This is exceptional value for a pole with a flick‑lock and 7075 aluminium.
- Hi-Gear Trail: Approximately £18 per pair (with a membership card). The £7 saving is a false economy—you will likely have to replace the Trail within a season due to the failing twist‑lock.
Verdict: The Explorer is the better investment. The extra £7 buys you a pole that will last significantly longer and perform more reliably.
The Go Outdoors membership factor
To get these prices, you need a Go Outdoors Membership Card (£5/year). This is a worthwhile investment if you are buying any gear from Go Outdoors. The member price is often 10‑20% lower than the standard retail price. For the Explorer, the member price is typically around £25, while the non‑member price is closer to £35.
When to consider the cheaper Trail model
The Trail is only worth considering if:
- You are on a very tight budget and the extra £7 is a genuine barrier.
- You are buying poles for a child who will grow out of them quickly.
- You only walk on short, flat, dry paths and are unlikely to encounter wet or muddy conditions.
For any regular use in the UK's typical conditions, the Explorer is the better choice.
What about the other Hi-Gear models?
There is occasionally a Hi-Gear Air (a lightweight, twist‑lock pole) or a Hi-Gear Junior (a children's pole). These are niche products. If you see a flick‑lock variant, it is likely a variation of the Explorer. Stick with the Explorer for the best all‑round performance.
Maintenance tips for Hi-Gear poles
- Clean the locks: If you have a twist‑lock (Trail), clean the threads regularly to prevent seizing. For the Explorer's flick‑lock, keep the lever and cam clean of mud.
- Tighten the screws: The flick‑lock lever can loosen over time. Use a small hex key to tighten it.
- Rinse after use: Salt, mud, and grit can damage the locking mechanism. Rinse with fresh water after a muddy walk.
Summary table
| Feature | Hi-Gear Explorer (Flick-Lock) | Hi-Gear Trail (Twist-Lock) |
|---|---|---|
| Price (member) | ~£25 | ~£18 |
| Lock | Flick‑lock (reliable) | Twist‑lock (prone to failure) |
| Material | 7075 aluminium | Lower‑grade aluminium/steel |
| Grip | Cork | Foam |
| Weight | Moderate (approx. 270‑290g) | Heavier |
| Best for | All‑weather, mixed terrain | Short, flat, dry walks |
The verdict
The Hi-Gear Explorer (flick-lock) is the best trekking pole in the Hi-Gear range at Go Outdoors. For approximately £25 per pair (with a membership card), it offers a reliable flick‑lock, 7075 aluminium, and cork grips—features you would normally expect on a pole costing twice as much. The cheaper Hi-Gear Trail (twist-lock) is a false economy; its twist‑lock mechanism is prone to failure in the UK's wet, muddy conditions. For any walker planning to use poles for more than a short, flat, dry walk, the Explorer is the clear and better investment. Sign up for the Go Outdoors membership card to unlock the member price, and enjoy a pole that will serve you well for many miles.
