Are Trekmates trekking poles any good for beginners?
If you are new to hiking and looking for an affordable pair of trekking poles, you have probably come across Trekmates. This UK‑based brand offers budget‑friendly poles that are widely available in outdoor shops like Go Outdoors, Mountain Warehouse, and online. But are they a good choice for a beginner? The short answer is yes – with some important caveats. Trekmates poles can be an excellent entry point, provided you choose the right model and understand their limitations. This article explains what Trekmates offers, how they compare to premium brands, and what beginners should look for.
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Trekmates: a quick overview
Trekmates produces a range of trekking poles, from very basic twist‑lock models to flick‑lock aluminium poles and even some carbon options. Their prices typically range from £20 to £45 per pair, making them significantly cheaper than Leki, Black Diamond, or Komperdell (which often cost £70‑120). The brand targets casual hikers, day walkers, and beginners who want functional gear without a large investment.
What makes Trekmates suitable for beginners?
1. Affordable entry cost
A beginner may not want to spend £100+ on poles before knowing if they enjoy using them. Trekmates poles let you try the sport without financial risk. Even if you decide to upgrade later, the initial outlay is modest.
2. Decent basic features
The better Trekmates models (e.g., Walker Lock, Peak Walker) use external flick‑locks – not twist‑locks. This is crucial. Flick‑locks are easy to adjust, reliable in mud, and beginner‑friendly. They also have 7075‑grade aluminium shafts (or similar), which are strong enough for day hikes and light backpacking. Tips are carbide and often replaceable – a feature that many ultra‑cheap poles lack.
3. Widely available
You can find Trekmates poles in physical shops (Go Outdoors, Decathlon sometimes stock them) and online. A beginner can see them in person, test the grip, and ask staff for advice.
The drawbacks beginners should know
1. Weight
Trekmates poles are noticeably heavier than premium models. A pair of Walker Lock poles weighs around 500‑550g (250‑275g per pole). In contrast, a Leki Khumbu Lite weighs about 480g per pair. The extra weight may cause arm fatigue on longer hikes, but for short day walks it is fine.
2. Durability under heavy use
While fine for weekend hiking, Trekmates poles may not survive a thru‑hike or daily heavy backpacking. The locks can loosen over time, and the aluminium may bend more easily than premium 7075 alloys. For a beginner who hikes once a month, this is unlikely to matter.
3. Build quality inconsistencies
As a budget brand, Trekmates can have occasional quality control issues – a lock that slips, a tip that doesn’t stay tight, or a grip that peels. Check your poles carefully after purchase and return if faulty.
Which Trekmates model should a beginner buy?
| Model | Lock type | Material | Approx. weight (pair) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walker Lock | Flick‑lock | 7075 aluminium | 520g | Day hikes, gentle trails |
| Peak Walker | Flick‑lock | Aluminium | 540g | Similar to Walker Lock |
| Trekker Compact | Flick‑lock | Aluminium | 500g | Shorter hikers, packability |
| Twist‑lock models (avoid) | Twist‑lock | Aluminium | 550g+ | Not recommended |
Avoid any Trekmates model with twist‑locks. They slip, are hard to tighten, and frustrate beginners. Always choose flick‑locks.
How Trekmates compares to other budget brands
- Decathlon Forclaz MT500 – Slightly more expensive (£35), but better cork grip and more durable. The MT500 is arguably the best budget pole.
- Cascade Mountain Tech – Similar price, flick‑lock, but less available in UK shops.
- Leki Khumbu Lite – Double the price (£70‑90), but lighter, more durable, and better long‑term support.
Trekmates sits below Decathlon in quality but above no‑name Amazon twist‑lock poles.
Practical tips for beginners using Trekmates poles
- Check the locks before each hike. Flick‑lock levers can loosen; tighten the screw with a small screwdriver if needed.
- Use the wrist straps correctly. Insert your hand from below the strap – it should cross the back of your wrist. This lets you relax your grip.
- Adjust length for slopes. Shorten for uphill, lengthen for downhill. Mark your flat‑ground setting.
- Replace tips when worn. Trekmates sell spare carbide tips.
- Rinse after muddy walks to keep locks clean.
Final verdict: are they good for beginners?
Yes – Trekmates trekking poles are a perfectly good choice for a beginner, provided you buy a flick‑lock model (e.g., Walker Lock) and not a twist‑lock. They are affordable, functional, and widely available. They will serve you well for day hikes, gentle hills, and even light backpacking. However, if you think you will hike frequently, tackle wet, rocky terrain, or carry heavy loads, consider spending a bit more on a Decathlon MT500 or a Leki Khumbu Lite. For a true “try it out” pair, Trekmates is hard to beat. Start with them, learn proper technique, and upgrade later if your passion grows.
