Can I Buy Single Trekking Poles or Only Pairs?

A common question for both new and seasoned hikers is whether trekking poles must always be purchased as a set. Perhaps you’ve lost one pole on a trip, broken one beyond repair, or simply prefer hiking with a single pole. The good news is that the outdoor industry caters to these needs. While buying a pair is the standard and most cost-effective way to start, purchasing a single trekking pole is not only possible but also a practical solution for many scenarios.

The Standard: Buying a Paired Set

When you walk into most retail stores or browse online, the default offering is almost always a matched pair. This makes perfect sense for the majority of users:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Manufacturers and retailers often offer a discount when purchased as a set. Buying two poles individually will almost always be more expensive than buying the same two poles together in a box.
• Convenience: You get two poles of the same model, length, and wear pattern, ensuring balanced performance and feel.
• Immediate Use: For a new hiker, a pair is ready to go right out of the box.

For your first purchase or if you need two new poles, buying a paired set is undoubtedly the way to go.

The Reality: Yes, You Can Buy Singles

The option to purchase a single trekking pole is widely available from most major manufacturers and specialty retailers. This is a crucial service for the hiking community for several key reasons:

1. Replacement for a Lost or Broken Pole:
This is the most common reason. If you snap a pole on a rocky descent or leave one leaning against your car before driving away, you don’t need to buy a whole new set. Brands like Black Diamond, Leki, and Komperdell all have sections on their websites dedicated to selling individual poles. This allows you to get an exact match for your surviving pole, maintaining consistency in weight, flex, and grip feel.

2. Creating a Custom Mismatched Pair:
Some hikers have unique preferences or physical needs. For instance, an individual with a previous injury might want a pole with a different grip or shock absorption system for one side. Buying singles allows for this level of customization.

3. The Solo Pole Hiker:
Many trekkers, especially those on less technical terrain, prefer the rhythm and freedom of using just a single pole. It provides stability and reduces joint impact while leaving one hand free. There’s no reason for these hikers to buy a full pair.

Where to Buy Single Trekking Poles

• Direct from Manufacturers: The best place to find a single pole is almost always the brand's official website. Companies like Leki and Black Diamond have excellent "Single Pole" or "Replacement" sections. This ensures you get the exact model, year, and length you need.
• Specialty Outdoor Retailers: Stores like REI and Backcountry often sell single poles online, though their inventory may be more limited compared to the brands themselves.
• Secondhand Markets: Platforms like eBay or Geartrade are treasure troves for single poles. Hikers often sell a single pole after losing its mate, making it a great place to find a discontinued model or a bargain.

Critical Considerations When Buying a Single Pole

If you're replacing one pole, pay close attention to these details to ensure a match:

• Model Name and Year: Trekking pole models are updated frequently. A 2023 model might have a slightly different color, grip, or locking mechanism than the 2022 version. Find the exact product name and, if possible, the year of manufacture of your existing pole.
• Shaft Length: This is vital if your poles are a fixed length. If you have adjustable poles, you only need to match the model, as you can set the length to your preference.
• Locking Mechanism: Ensure the locking mechanism (e.g., FlickLock, SpeedLock, twist-lock) is identical to avoid one pole feeling different or being adjusted differently from the other.

The Verdict: Flexibility for the Win

The outdoor gear market understands that accidents happen and preferences vary. The widespread availability of single trekking poles provides fantastic flexibility and value, saving you from the frustration and expense of replacing a complete set for one lost or damaged pole. So, whether you’re a replacement seeker, a customizer, or a solo pole enthusiast, rest assured that you can find exactly what you need—one pole at a time. Always check the product listing carefully for "Single" or "Pair" to ensure you're getting what you expect.