Best trekking poles for the Cleveland Way and North York Moors?

The Cleveland Way is a 109‑mile (175 km) National Trail that loops around the North York Moors National Park, combining dramatic coastal cliffs with expansive heather moorland. The terrain is as varied as it is beautiful: windswept cliffs, muddy moorland paths, rocky escarpments, and boggy valleys. For this demanding trail, the best trekking poles are durable aluminium models with lever locks, replaceable carbide tips, cork grips, and the ability to fit mud baskets. The Decathlon Forclaz MT900 offers the best value at £55, while premium walkers often choose the Leki Makalu or Black Diamond Trail Back. Here is a detailed breakdown of what works and why.

Understanding the Cleveland Way terrain

The Cleveland Way is divided into two distinct halves:

• Coastal section (from Saltburn to Filey): Dramatic cliffs, with frequent ascents and descents. The path is often grassy but can be muddy after rain. Exposed to strong winds.
• Moorland section (from Filey back to Helmsley): Remote heather moorland, with peat bogs, boggy patches, and occasional rocky outcrops. The terrain is softer and can be very wet.

Key challenges for poles:

• Mud and peat bogs – The moorland sections are notorious for deep, sticky mud. Poles need baskets to prevent sinking.
• Gritstone and sandstone – The rocky sections (especially on the coast) are abrasive, wearing down carbide tips quickly.
• Wind and rain – The North York Moors are exposed. Poles must have secure locks that don't slip when wet.

Essential features for the Cleveland Way

1. Aluminium over carbon – Carbon poles are lighter but brittle. The rocky coastal sections and the possibility of side impacts on moorland stones make aluminium (especially 7075 alloy) a safer, more durable choice. Aluminium bends and can be straightened; carbon splinters and is terminal.
2. Lever locks – Twist locks are prone to slipping in mud and wet conditions. Lever (cam) locks (Leki SpeedLock, Black Diamond FlickLock, Decathlon's cam system) are field‑adjustable and far more reliable.
3. Replaceable carbide tips – The abrasive gritstone on the coast and the rocky moorland will wear down tips. Poles with replaceable tips are a must. Carry a spare pair for a 109‑mile walk.
4. Cork grips – In wet, windy weather, cork grips remain comfortable and grippy. Foam grips can get slimy; rubber becomes slippery.
5. Mud baskets – Essential for the moorland sections. They prevent the pole from sinking too deep into soft peat and mud. Remove them on rocky coastal sections to avoid catching on stones.
6. Small trekking baskets – Useful on coastal grassy sections, but they can be removed when not needed.

Top recommendations

1. Decathlon Forclaz MT900 (£55) – The best value pole for the Cleveland Way. Features: 7075 aluminium, reliable lever locks, cork grips, replaceable carbide tips. Weight: ~250 g per pole. Collapses to 65 cm for packing. It performs well above its price point and is proven on UK long‑distance trails. It also accepts Decathlon's own mud baskets (£5–10), which are a great addition for the moorland.
2. Leki Makalu (£90–100) – A premium choice for frequent walkers. Features: SpeedLock Plus (the most secure lever lock), 7075 aluminium, a steel lower section for extra abrasion resistance, cork grips. Slightly heavier at 270 g per pole but virtually indestructible. A lifetime investment if you walk regularly.
3. Black Diamond Trail Back (£75–85) – Similar to the Makalu but with Black Diamond's FlickLock system. Lighter (240 g per pole) and with a more ergonomic grip. Excellent if you prefer FlickLock over SpeedLock. Available at Cotswold and Go Outdoors.
4. Budget alternative – Decathlon Forclaz MT100 (~£25) – Not recommended for this trail. Twist locks slip in mud, tips are non‑replaceable, and foam grips are uncomfortable in wet conditions. You will regret this choice after a few rainy days.

Why carbon poles are a risk

Carbon poles (e.g., Leki Micro Vario Carbon, Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z) are lighter and offer better vibration damping. However, the Cleveland Way's coastal rocks and moorland stones make them a risky choice. A single side impact can cause splintering. The weight saving of ~100 g per pole is not worth the potential for breakage on a remote moorland section. Stick with aluminium.

Mud baskets – don't forget them

The moorland sections of the Cleveland Way are famous for their deep bogs. Without mud baskets, your poles will sink up to the handle in soft ground, making them difficult to retrieve and providing little support. Decathlon, Leki, and Black Diamond all sell mud baskets (around £5–15 per pair). Fit them before the moorland sections and remove them on the coast to avoid catching on rocks.

Spare parts and maintenance for the Cleveland Way

• Carbide tips: Carry at least one spare pair. The abrasive gritstone on the coast can wear down tips significantly over 100 miles. Change them when the carbide is visibly worn (rounded edges).
• Hex key: A small 2.5 or 3 mm hex key allows you to tighten lever locks if they loosen over time.
• Rinse after each day: Mud and salt from coastal winds can corrode locks and shafts. Rinse with fresh water and dry thoroughly.
• Lubricate locks: A tiny drop of silicone spray on the lock cams can keep them smooth in wet conditions.

Where to buy before your walk

• Decathlon UK – Forclaz MT900 (best value; also stocks baskets and spare tips).
• Go Outdoors – Price‑match and discount card can make Leki and Black Diamond more affordable.
• Cotswold Outdoor – Expert advice and in‑store testing.
• SportPursuit – Flash sales on premium brands (if timed right).

Final verdict

For the Cleveland Way and North York Moors, the Decathlon Forclaz MT900 is the clear winner for walkers on a budget, offering professional‑grade features at a price that suits most. If you walk regularly and want the best build quality, invest in the Leki Makalu or Black Diamond Trail Back. Remember to add mud baskets, carry spare tips, and avoid carbon and twist locks. With the right poles, you'll navigate the muddy moorland, rocky coast, and exposed ridges with confidence and comfort, protecting your knees and preserving your energy for the stunning views. Happy walking.