How to Choose the Right Length for Your Folding Trekking Poles
You find a pair of folding trekking poles you like, but then you see a number such as 120 cm, 125 cm, 130 cm or 135 cm. Which one is actually right for you? Choosing trekking-pole length doesn’t have to be complicated. The basic starting point is: when standing naturally, your elbow should generally be around a 90-degree angle when holding the poles.
Need the Answer Fast?
Trekking Pole Length Calculator
Suggested starting length: 125–130 cm
Fine-tune it until your elbow is approximately at a right angle when you’re standing naturally.
Correct Trekking Pole Length
Why Trekking Pole Length Matters
🧍 Posture
Incorrect length can affect your natural stance.
🛋️ Comfort
Proper length reduces unnecessary strain.
⚖️ Balance
Helps maintain stability on uneven terrain.
🔄 Efficiency
Better swing and placement with correct length.
The 90-Degree Elbow Rule Explained
Trekking Pole Length Chart by Height
What About 135 cm Folding Trekking Poles?
A maximum length of 135 cm can accommodate many hikers, but it doesn’t mean everyone should use the pole at its maximum extension.
🟢 Shorter Hiker
110–115 cm
🟡 Medium Hiker
115–125 cm
🔵 Taller Hiker
125–135 cm
Fixed-Length vs Adjustable Folding Trekking Poles
📏 Fixed-Length
- Simple
- Potentially lighter
- Fewer moving parts
- Less flexible
- Harder to share
🔧 Adjustable
- Customizable
- Versatile for terrain
- Easier to share
- Locking system adds complexity
- May add weight
Folding Pole Length vs Packed Length
📏 Extended Length
The pole’s usable length when hiking.
📦 Packed Length
The length when folded for storage or travel.
How to Adjust for Different Terrain
⛰️ Uphill
The ground rises. A slightly shorter pole can help keep your hands closer to a comfortable position.
⬇️ Downhill
The ground drops away. A slightly longer pole can provide more reach.
🥾 Flat Ground
Use your normal setting. Shoulders, wrist, and elbow should remain relaxed.
How Backpack Weight Changes Pole Setup
A heavier pack can change your posture and balance. Test your trekking poles with the backpack you actually plan to use.
Common Trekking Pole Sizing Mistakes
How to Know If Your Poles Are Too Short
- Elbow is noticeably more closed than intended
- Shoulders feel raised
- Hands sit too low
- You constantly bend forward to plant poles
- Poles feel awkward on flat ground
How to Know If Your Poles Are Too Long
- Elbows are overly open
- Shoulders are reaching
- Pole tips land too far forward
- Arms feel stretched
- Planting feels unnatural
What Length Should I Choose?
30-Second Sizing Method
- Stand naturally.
- Hold the grip.
- Place the tip beside your foot.
- Adjust until elbow is approximately 90°.
- Walk.
- Shorten slightly uphill.
- Lengthen slightly downhill.
Related Guides
The Ultimate Guide to Folding Trekking Poles Why Folding Trekking Poles Are a Traveler’s Best Friend Lightweight and Packable: The Best Hiking Poles for Backpacking Folding vs. Telescoping Trekking Poles Aluminum vs. Carbon Fiber EVA Foam vs. Cork Grips Hiking Poles for Balance and Stability Essential Accessories How to Care For and Maintain 3-Section Folding Trekking PolesExternal Resources
REI Expert Advice OutdoorGearLab National Park Service U.S. Forest Service American Hiking Society Leave No Trace National Weather Service NOAA CDC Appalachian Mountain ClubInteractive FAQs
How do I choose the right trekking pole length?
Start with the 90-degree elbow rule: stand naturally, hold the pole, and adjust until your elbow is at about a right angle. Fine-tune for terrain.
What length trekking poles do I need for my height?
Use the height chart above as a starting point. For example, 170–180 cm → 115–125 cm range.
What is the 90-degree elbow rule?
Stand naturally with the pole tip on the ground beside you. Adjust the pole until your elbow forms approximately a 90-degree angle.
Are 135 cm trekking poles long enough?
For many hikers, yes — but the correct setting depends on your height and arm length. Don’t automatically use maximum extension.
Can short people use 135 cm trekking poles?
Yes — but they would typically use a shorter setting within the pole’s range, not the maximum length.
Can tall people use folding trekking poles?
Yes — many folding poles extend to 135 cm, which can accommodate taller hikers. Check the maximum length.
Should trekking poles be shorter uphill?
Yes — a slightly shorter pole can be more comfortable on climbs.
Should trekking poles be longer downhill?
Yes — a slightly longer pole can provide better reach on descents.
What length should trekking poles be on flat ground?
Use your normal comfortable setting — the one that gives you a relaxed elbow angle.
Does arm length affect trekking pole sizing?
Yes — two people of the same height can have different arm lengths, affecting the ideal pole length.
Does backpack weight affect pole length?
Yes — a heavy pack can change your posture, so test poles with your loaded backpack.
Should both trekking poles be the same length?
Usually yes on flat ground. On uneven terrain, you may adjust each pole slightly.
Are folding trekking poles adjustable?
Many are — check the product specifications. Adjustable folding poles allow fine-tuning for terrain.
What’s the difference between packed length and extended length?
Extended length is the pole in use; packed length is when folded for storage or travel.
Are folding poles better than telescoping poles?
Folding poles prioritize packability; telescoping poles offer more adjustment range. Choose based on your needs.
Can I use trekking poles if I’m between sizes?
Yes — start with the middle of the suggested range and fine-tune based on comfort.
How do I know if my poles are too short?
If your elbow is excessively bent, shoulders feel raised, or you’re bending forward to plant the poles.
How do I know if my poles are too long?
If your elbows are overly open, shoulders are reaching, or pole tips land too far forward.
Does the trekking pole grip affect sizing?
Yes — grip shape and thickness can change the effective length. Adjust based on comfort.
Do trekking pole tips affect length?
Tips have a minor effect — the main adjustment is in the shaft length.
The Right Trekking Pole Length Is the One That Feels Natural — Height chart → 90° elbow starting point → walk → fine-tune → shorten uphill → lengthen downhill.
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