Telescoping vs Folding Trekking Poles: Which Is Better?

Choosing between telescoping and folding trekking poles is a common dilemma for hikers and backpackers. Both designs have distinct advantages and drawbacks, and the "better" option depends entirely on your hiking style, terrain, and personal priorities. Let's break down the key differences to help you decide.

Telescoping Poles: The Adjustable Workhorse

Telescoping poles feature two or three adjustable sections that slide and lock into place, typically via twist locks or lever locks.

Pros:

• Precise Adjustability: This is their biggest advantage. You can fine-tune the length for perfect fit on flat ground, shorten them for uphill climbs, and lengthen them for descents to reduce strain on your knees and joints.
• Superior Stability: Generally considered more rigid and sturdy, especially models with lever locks. This makes them ideal for carrying heavy loads, navigating uneven terrain, or providing maximum support for larger hikers.
• Versatility: Their ability to adjust to any length allows you to share them with partners of different heights or use one as a tent pole for a trekking pole-supported tent.
• Easier Repairs: A damaged section can often be replaced individually, and field repairs are usually more straightforward.

Cons:

• Heavier: More hardware (locks, adjusters) means more weight.
• Bulkier: Even when collapsed, they don't pack down as small as folding poles.
• Maintenance: Locks can collect dirt, freeze, or wear out over time, requiring occasional cleaning and maintenance.

Folding Poles (Z-Poles): The Compact Speedsters

Folding poles, often called Z-poles due to their zig-zag collapse, use internal tension cords to hold connected sections together. They fold down into a compact size.

Pros:

• Lightweight: They eliminate heavy locking mechanisms, making them the top choice for ultralight backpackers and gram-counters.
• Highly Packable: Their compact, folded size easily straps to the outside of a pack or fits inside, making them ideal for travel and trail runners who may not use them constantly.
• Fast Deployment: They can be unfolded and ready to use in seconds without adjusting locks.
• Low Maintenance: With no external locks to fail or get clogged with mud, they are often more reliable in messy conditions.

Cons:

• Limited Adjustability: Most models come in fixed sizes (e.g., 110cm, 120cm) or offer only limited adjustment via removable sections. This lack of micro-adjustment can be a drawback on varying terrain.
• Perceived Less Rigidity: While high-end models are very strong, they can sometimes feel less solid under very heavy loads compared to a locked telescopic pole.
• Harder to Repair: If the internal cord snaps, repair in the field is difficult or impossible, often requiring a full return to the manufacturer.

Key Factors to Help You Choose

• Your Primary Activity: Are you a long-distance backpacker who values adjustability? Choose telescoping. A fast-and-light trail runner who needs speed and packability? Folding poles are your best bet.
• Terrain: For variable mountain terrain with frequent elevation changes, the adjustability of telescoping poles is a massive benefit. For well-groomed trails or alpine routes where a fixed length works, folding poles excel.
• Pack Size: If you frequently travel with a small pack or need to stow your poles often, the compact nature of Z-poles is a huge advantage.
• Budget: While both styles come at various price points, simple telescoping poles often provide the most value for those on a tighter budget.

The Verdict

There is no single winner. The best pole is the one that best fits your adventure.

• Choose Telescoping Poles if: Adjustability, maximum stability, and load-bearing strength are your top priorities. They are the versatile, all-terrain choice for most traditional backpacking.
• Choose Folding Poles if: Saving weight, minimizing pack size, and speed of use are most important to you. They are the ultimate tool for ultralight enthusiasts, trail runners, and fastpackers.

Ultimately, both designs are highly effective. By matching the pole's strengths to your personal needs, you'll make the right choice.