What accessories should I buy with my first trekking poles?

Congratulations on your first pair of trekking poles! They will save your knees, improve your balance, and make hiking more enjoyable. But to get the most out of them – and to keep them working for years – you need a few key accessories. Some are essential for safety, others add versatility. This guide covers everything you should consider buying alongside your first poles.

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1. Rubber tip covers (road tips / paws) – essential

Your new poles come with sharp carbide tips designed to bite into dirt, rock, and ice. On pavement, asphalt, or indoor floors, those tips are slippery and will wear down quickly. Rubber tip covers (often called “road tips” or “paws”) slip over the carbide to provide traction on hard surfaces. They also protect your floors and extend tip life.

• Why you need them: Walking from the car park to the trailhead often involves paved sections. Without covers, you risk slipping and damaging the tips.
• What to look for: Universal rubber covers fit most poles. Buy a spare set – they wear out after 50‑100 km on asphalt.
• Price: €5‑10 per pair.

2. Spare carbide tips – highly recommended

Carbide tips are consumable. Depending on the terrain, they can last 500‑2,000 km. When the carbide becomes rounded or the steel ferrule is exposed, the pole loses grip and may slip. Replacing tips is cheaper than buying new poles.

• Why you need them: Eventually, your tips will wear down. Having spares means you can replace them immediately, not after a dangerous slip.
• What to look for: Buy tips specifically for your pole brand (Leki, Black Diamond, Komperdell) or universal 8mm/10mm tips.
• Price: €10‑15 per pair. A small investment for safety.

3. Spare baskets – useful for versatility

Baskets (the small plastic discs above the tip) prevent the pole from sinking into mud or snow. Your poles come with standard trekking baskets (40‑50 mm). For winter hiking or deep snow, you will need larger powder baskets (70‑90 mm). Also, baskets can crack if jammed between rocks.

• Why you need them: If you hike in snow, powder baskets are non‑negotiable. Even in summer, a spare basket can save a trip if one breaks.
• What to look for: Buy baskets compatible with your pole’s attachment system (snap‑on, threaded, or Vario).
• Price: €5‑15 per pair, depending on size.

4. A small screwdriver / multitool – practical

Most flick‑lock poles have a small screw on the lever that adjusts clamping force. Over time, the screw can loosen, causing the lock to slip. A tiny Phillips or hex screwdriver (often included with the poles or as a keychain tool) allows you to tighten it on the trail.

• Why you need it: A loose lock can collapse your pole when you lean on it – dangerous. With a screwdriver, you can fix it in seconds.
• What to look for: Many poles come with a small multi‑tool. If not, buy a lightweight mini screwdriver (e.g., Swiss Army knife with Phillips head).
• Price: €5‑15.

5. Tip protectors for storage – optional but nice

Small rubber caps that fit over the tip when poles are collapsed. They protect your car interior, backpack, and floor from scratches. They also keep the tip from poking through fabric.

• Why you need them: Not essential, but convenient.
• What to look for: Often included with new poles. If not, generic silicone or rubber caps work.
• Price: €3‑5.

6. Replacement wrist straps – later

Wrist straps can fray after years of use. Not an immediate need, but good to know replacements are available.

7. Pole storage bag / sleeve – for travel

If you plan to fly with your poles, a padded storage bag or a simple cardboard tube prevents bending and scratching. Some poles come with a stuff sack; if not, a cheap drawstring bag works.

• Why you need it: For checked luggage, protection from baggage handlers.
• What to look for: Padded sleeves or DIY with PVC pipe.
• Price: €10‑30.

8. Ice grippers (winter tips) – for icy trails

If you hike in winter on ice, small metal spikes (ice grippers) that fit over the carbide tip provide exceptional traction. They are a game‑changer on frozen trails.

• Why you need them: Carbide tips alone can slide on hard ice. Ice grippers bite into the surface.
• What to look for: Brand‑specific (Leki Ice Gripper, Black Diamond Ultralight Ice Tip) or universal.
• Price: €15‑25 per pair.

What NOT to buy immediately

• Anti‑shock poles (internal springs) – Many beginners think they need shock absorption. In reality, it adds weight and complexity. Save your money.
• Expensive carbon poles – For your first pair, aluminium is more durable and affordable.
• Specialized gloves with trigger system – Leki Trigger Shark gloves are nice, but not necessary for beginners.

Summary checklist for your first accessories

Final advice

When you buy your first trekking poles, do not overcomplicate things. At a minimum, pick up rubber tip covers and a small screwdriver. If you plan to hike on snow, add powder baskets. After a few hundred kilometres, buy spare tips. The other accessories can come later as you gain experience. Investing €20‑30 in the right accessories will double the life of your poles and make every hike safer and more enjoyable. Happy trails!