The use of poles in trail running has become common practice for runners looking to optimise their performance on varied terrain. These accessories offer extra support on climbs, help control the descent and distribute the effort between the legs and the upper body. By providing invaluable assistance in maintaining balance on technical trails and reducing muscular fatigue, poles are becoming essential allies in the trainer's arsenal, especially for long distances or routes with a significant difference in altitude.
So here are the best poles for trail running: Spoiler Alert, there's more than just Léki on the market 😉
Contents
Our selection of trail poles
- Leki Vertical K
- Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
- Leki Micro UltraTrail FX One
- Raidlight ultralight Carbon
- Swix Sonic Pro Trail Carbon
Leki Vertical K : Single-arm trail running pole
Product presentation
Leki Vertical K poles are designed for mountain trail-running enthusiasts, offering performance and support on climbs.
First and foremost, they are single-piece. These poles don't bend! Extremely useful for those who enjoy short trails or medium distances with a change in altitude.
The handle on Leki Vertical K poles is designed for a comfortable, secure grip, essential for ascents and descents on the trail. Their innovative Trigger 2.0 Shark system allows you to quickly detach the wrist strap, making it easier to make quick transitions between different phases of your run. This feature makes the poles particularly practical for sections requiring great dexterity.
Made entirely from carbon, Vertical K poles are remarkably light, a major advantage for runners wishing to minimise arm fatigue on long, demanding routes. Weighing just 140g per pair, these poles are among the lightest on the market, offering trail runners valuable assistance without weighing them down.
The ultra-sharp Speed Tip ensures precise, secure grip on all types of terrain, increasing the longevity of the poles even in the toughest conditions.
Product features
| Features | Leki Vertical K |
|---|---|
| Materials | Carbonne |
| Land | Mixed |
| Weight | between 132g and 148g depending on size |
| Storage | single-strand |
Advantages and disadvantages
Benefits
✅ Climbing efficiency
✅ Lightness
✅ Hand comfort
Disadvantages
❌ Storage
Notes and opinions on the pair of poles
Ideal for mountain enthusiasts, these poles deliver excellent performance. Although they can't be folded, you can still do short, medium and even long trails, without sacrificing practicality.
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
Product presentation
Introducing the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z-Poles, designed for trail runners looking for performance and reliability. These poles combine ease of useThey're lightweight and durable, to support you in all your mountain explorations.
Their FlickLock system makes it easy to adjust the height of the poles to suit different terrain. Their three-strand folding design makes them easy to carry. simple deployment and storageThey're also ideal for technical sections. The non-slip handle extension and secure wrist straps offer greater comfort and control, leaving you focused on your route.
Built in 100 % carbon fibre %These poles are distinguished by their lightness. This material reduces weight while remaining solid, making it easy to climb slopes. Their streamlined structure makes them easy to use when climbing.
These poles are built to last. Carbon fibre offers good resistance to traction and compression, and flexibility to go with your movements. Tech's carbide and rubber tips guarantee a long life. good grip on different terrainsfrom mud to rocks, extending the life of the poles.
Product features
| Features | Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z |
|---|---|
| Materials | Carbon |
| Land | Mixed |
| Weight | between 132g and 148g depending on size |
| Storage | 3 strands |
Advantages and disadvantages
Benefits
✅ Light
✅ Easy to use
✅ Adhesion
Disadvantages
❌ Price
Notes and opinions on the pair of poles
For steep climbs or technical descents, the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z-Poles are ideal for trail runners looking to combine innovation and functionality, enabling them to climb the steepest slopes efficiently and without hassle.
Leki Micro UltraTrail FX One
Product presentation
The Leki Ultratrail FX.One walking poles are designed to be used as high-performance equipment for trail runners. Their design incorporates features designed to enhance the mountain running experience.
The Shark system, which is at the heart of the design of these poles, provides efficient transmission of force The Shark Frame Strap Mesh strap is quick to attach and detach, making it easy to use. The Trail Shark handle, adapted to the specific needs of trail riding, is combined with a cork extension for a more comfortable grip. secure gripEven in the most technical sections. The folding mechanism makes these poles easy to carry, as they can be easily dismantled for compact storage, reducing discomfort for the runner?
Built using HRC carbon tubes, the Ultratrail FX.One poles are remarkably light, weighing just 182g per pole for a 120cm model. This lightness helps to reduce arm fatigueThis allows riders to concentrate on their performance without being weighed down.
Despite their light weight, these poles don't compromise on strength. HRC carbon ensures high resistanceThese poles have been designed to withstand the stresses of the most demanding trail terrain. The Trail Tip and specific trail running washer further enhance their durability, proving that these poles are built to last.
Product features
| Features | Leki UltraTrail FX One |
|---|---|
| Materials | Carbonne |
| Land | Mixed |
| Weight | between 182g |
| Storage | 3 strands |
Advantages and disadvantages
Benefits
✅ Light
✅ Excellent hand grip
✅ Good ground grip
✅ Practicality
Disadvantages
❌ Price
Notes and opinions on the pair of poles
With their smart design and robust construction, the Leki Ultratrail FX.One poles are designed for trail runners looking for a balance between performance, comfort and durability. However, if you've never run with poles before, we'd advise you to buy a cheaper pair first.
Raidlight ultralight Carbon: best value for money
Product presentation
Raidlight Ultralight Carbon poles are designed to meet the demands of trail riding on technical terrain, offering reliable support while remaining lightweight.
These poles feature ergonomic 3D handles covered in EVA foam, which provide a comfortable grip and reduce hand fatigue on long runs. Adjustable straps make customisation quick and easy, adapting to the size and preferences of each runner for optimum comfort throughout the race.
Made from carbon, Raidlight's Ultralight Carbon poles are lightweight, each weighing just 100g in the 110cm size. This lightness is particularly appreciated on steep climbs and long distances, where every gram counts.
The choice of carbon for their manufacture not only significantly reduces weight, but also ensures robustness and shock absorption for rugged terrain. These poles are designed to withstand the rigours of mountain biking, offering increased stability without compromising durability.
Product features
| Features | Raidlight ultralight Carbon |
|---|---|
| Materials | Carbon |
| Land | Mixed |
| Weight | 100g per stick |
| Storage | Single-strand |
Advantages and disadvantages
Benefits
✅ Light
✅ Robust
✅ Comfortable to hold
Disadvantages
❌ Single-stranded (may not be suitable for all types of riders).
Notes and opinions on the pair of poles
By combining an ergonomic grip, remarkable lightness and durable construction, Raidlight Ultralight Carbon poles are a reliable piece of equipment for trail runners looking for performance and comfort on demanding trails.
Swix Sonic Pro Trail Carbon
Product presentation
Discover the Swix Sonic Pro Trail Carbon poles, designed for trail and trekking enthusiasts looking for reliable equipment for their outings in the great outdoors.
These poles feature a simple, effective folding system for easy storage and transport. The naturally grippy, breathable cork handle, combined with an EVA extension, makes them easy to hold and adapt to different terrain, making technical sections less intimidating.
Made from carbon, Swix Sonic Pro Trail Carbon are lightweight, making walking less tiring and more enjoyable, especially over long distances. The carbon structure contributes to a perfect balance between lightness and strength, providing a dynamic walking experience.
The choice of carbon for their design is testament to the durability of these poles. Equally resistant to traction and compression, they are designed to last and withstand the rigours of demanding trails and trekking. The metal tip and rubber end cap add a touch of versatility and durability, making them equally suited to natural terrain and tarmac.
Product features
| Features | Swix Sonic Pro Trail |
|---|---|
| Materials | Carbon |
| Land | Mixed |
| Weight | 335g |
| Storage | 3 strands |
Advantages and disadvantages
Benefits
✅ Light
✅ Practicality
✅ Comfort
✅ Versatility
Disadvantages
❌ Price
Notes and opinions on the pair of poles
The lightweight and compact Swix Sonic Pro Trail Carbon poles are the ideal accessory for outdoor enthusiasts who don't want to compromise on performance and comfort. With their practical design and durable construction, they're ready to accompany you on any trail, whether for short, medium or long distances.
Frequently asked questions :
What size trail pole should I choose?
The ideal size for your trail poles depends on your height. A good rule of thumb is to choose poles that, when positioned vertically and held by the handles, form a 90-degree angle with your elbows. If you're 180 cm tall, for example, poles of around 120 cm are generally suitable.
Foldable or single-wire baton?
The choice between a folding pole and a single-piece pole depends on your preferences for transport and stability. Foldable poles are practical for storage and transport because they can easily be attached to a rucksack. Single-pole poles, on the other hand, offer greater rigidity and durability.
How do you store your poles for running and training?
To store your poles during a race or training session, you can opt for a trail rucksack with special loops for attaching them. Some running waistcoats and baton belt are also designed with pockets or attachments for poles, allowing quick and easy access when not in use.