What are the best Decathlon trekking poles under £50?

Decathlon is famous for offering excellent value outdoor gear, and their trekking poles are no exception. For under £50, you can buy a pair of poles that would rival models costing twice as much – provided you choose the right model. The best Decathlon trekking pole in this price range is the Forclaz MT500. This article explains why, compares it to other Decathlon options, and tells you which poles to avoid.

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The clear winner: Forclaz MT500 (£35)

The Forclaz MT500 is a genuine bargain. At just £35 per pair, it offers features usually found on poles costing £70‑90.

• Locking mechanism: External flick‑locks (not twist‑locks). These are easy to adjust, reliable in mud and rain, and can be tightened with a simple screwdriver.
• Shaft material: 7075‑T6 aluminium – strong, lightweight (approx. 260g per pole), and resistant to bending. This is the same alloy used in premium poles.
• Grip: Cork/foam hybrid (mostly cork). Cork provides excellent grip when wet – ideal for the UK’s damp trails. It also moulds to your hand over time.
• Tip: Carbide, replaceable. Decathlon sells spare tips for a few pounds, extending the life of the poles.
• Baskets: Interchangeable small trekking baskets included. Larger snow baskets are available separately.
• Adjustability: Telescoping, from 100‑135 cm, fitting most hikers between 155‑185 cm tall.

Why it’s the best under £50: The MT500 gives you flick‑locks, a cork grip, and a durable aluminium shaft – features that cheap twist‑lock poles completely lack. It is durable enough for day hikes, weekend backpacking, and even long‑distance trails like the West Highland Way. Many hikers report these poles lasting for years.

Decathlon’s other poles under £50 – what to know

Forclaz MT100 (£25‑30)

The MT100 is the cheaper sibling of the MT500. It also uses external flick‑locks and a 7075 aluminium shaft. However, the grip is EVA foam (not cork), and the lock mechanism is less refined. The MT100 is still a decent budget choice, but the MT500 is worth the extra £5‑10 for the cork grip alone.

Quechua Arpenaz 100 (£15‑20)

The Arpenaz 100 is Decathlon’s absolute entry‑level pole. It uses twist‑locks, which are problematic. They slip under load, clog with mud, and are hard to adjust with wet hands. Avoid these, even for casual use. Twist‑locks can lead to dangerous collapses on steep terrain.

Quechua Arpenaz 500 (discontinued or older model)

Some stores may still stock the Arpenaz 500, which also used twist‑locks. Avoid for the same reason.

Why you should avoid twist‑lock poles under £50

At this price point, any pole with twist‑locks (whether from Decathlon or other brands) is a false economy. Twist‑locks:

• Slip when you lean on them, especially in wet conditions.
• Clog with mud and become impossible to adjust.
• Have internal plastic expanders that harden and fail over time.
• Cannot be easily repaired in the field.

For a few pounds more, the MT500’s flick‑locks are infinitely more reliable and safer.

Comparison: MT500 vs. MT100 vs. Arpenaz

Tips for buying and using Decathlon poles under £50

• Test the flick‑locks in store – Ensure they click firmly. If a lever feels loose, ask for another pair.
• Adjust the screw if needed – Flick‑locks have a small screw on the lever. A quarter turn clockwise tightens the clamp.
• Use the rubber tip covers included with the MT500 for walking on pavement; remove them on trails.
• Rinse after muddy hikes – Peat and mud can accumulate in the locks. Rinse with fresh water and dry.
• Replace tips when worn – Decathlon sells spare carbide tips (around £5 per pair) – a cost‑effective way to extend pole life.

How do Decathlon poles compare to other budget brands?

• Vs. Trekmates Walker Lock (~£30‑40): Similar specifications – both have flick‑locks and aluminium shafts. The MT500’s cork grip is superior to Trekmates’ foam grip.
• Vs. Cascade Mountain Tech (~£40‑50): CMT poles are also good, but less widely available in UK shops. The MT500 is easier to buy and return.
• Vs. Fizan Compact 3 (~£40‑60): Fizan are lighter (165g per pole) but use twist‑locks – not recommended for UK mud.

Final verdict

For under £50, the Decathlon Forclaz MT500 is the best trekking pole you can buy. It offers flick‑locks, a cork grip, a 7075 aluminium shaft, and replaceable tips – features that rival poles twice the price. Avoid the cheap twist‑lock Quechua models. If you are on a very tight budget, the Forclaz MT100 is acceptable, but the MT500 is well worth the small extra cost. With proper care, these poles will serve you for years of day hikes and backpacking trips across the UK.