What are the best Decathlon trekking poles under £50?

The best Decathlon trekking poles under £50 is the Forclaz MT100 at approximately £25. However, with a budget under £50, you are firmly in the entry-level category. For just £5 more, the Forclaz MT900 at £55 offers a massive upgrade in quality and is a far better long-term investment. This article reviews the MT100, explains its limitations, and argues why stretching your budget is highly recommended.

1. Decathlon Forclaz MT100 (£25) – the budget choice

The MT100 is Decathlon's most affordable trekking pole. It features:

• 6061 aluminium shaft – lightweight but less durable than 7075.
• Twist‑lock mechanism – functional but prone to slipping when wet or muddy.
• Foam grips – comfortable for short walks but can become slippery in rain.
• Non‑replaceable carbide tips – once the tip wears down, the entire pole is done.
• Weight – around 240 g per pole.

Who is it for?

• Occasional walkers on gentle, well‑maintained trails (e.g., canal towpaths, forest tracks).
• Beginners who are unsure whether they will use poles regularly.
• Hikers on a very tight budget who accept the limitations.

Key drawbacks on British trails

• Twist locks slip in wet conditions – a common frustration on muddy, rainy UK walks.
• Tips wear out – the abrasive ground on many trails means the tips will dull relatively quickly, and you cannot replace them.
• Limited grip comfort – foam grips are fine for a couple of hours but can cause hand fatigue on longer days.

2. Decathlon Forclaz MT900 (£55) – the value champion

The MT900 is widely regarded as one of the best value trekking poles on the UK market. At just £5 over your budget, it offers:

• 7075 aluminium shaft – stronger and more durable than 6061.
• Lever locks (cam locks) – secure, field‑adjustable, and reliable in wet, muddy conditions.
• Cork grips – become tacky when wet, providing a secure hold in rain.
• Replaceable tungsten carbide tips – economical over the long term; replacement tips cost around £10 per pair.
• Weight – around 250 g per pole.
• Collapsible to 65 cm – packs easily.

Who is it for?

• Regular walkers on varied UK terrain, including muddy and rocky trails.
• Long‑distance walkers (e.g., Coast to Coast, West Highland Way).
• Anyone who wants a durable, reliable pair that will last for years.

Why the MT900 is worth the extra £5

• Reliable locks – lever locks do not slip in wet conditions, unlike the MT100's twist locks.
• Replaceable tips – you can keep the poles for many years, replacing tips as they wear.
• Cork grips – superior comfort in rain, a common feature of British weather.
• Better durability – 7075 aluminium and a more robust design mean the MT900 can handle rocky terrain without bending or failing.

3. What about the Forclaz MT500?

The MT500 (around £30–35) is a mid‑range option with lever locks and foam grips. However, it uses 6061 aluminium and lacks the cork grips and 7075 alloy of the MT900. At just £55, the MT900 is a better investment.

4. Comparison table

5. Should you stretch your budget?

If you walk more than a few times a year, the answer is yes. The MT900 is a proven, reliable pole used by thousands of UK walkers on trails like the Pennine Way, West Highland Way, and the South West Coast Path. The extra £5 buys:

• Peace of mind on steep descents (secure locks).
• Comfort in wet weather (cork grips).
• Long‑term economy (replaceable tips).
• Better build quality (7075 aluminium).

The MT100 is fine for occasional flat walks, but if you tackle any hills or muddy sections, its twist locks and non‑replaceable tips will become a frustration.

6. Where to buy

• Decathlon UK – online and physical stores. The MT900 is often in stock; check for occasional sales.
• Decathlon's second‑hand/returned section – some stores sell ex‑display or returned poles at a discount.

7. Final verdict

Under £50, the Decathlon Forclaz MT100 is the best you can get, but it is a basic, entry‑level pole with significant limitations. For just £5 more, the Forclaz MT900 offers a massive upgrade in quality and is a vastly better long‑term investment. If you walk regularly on UK trails, spend the extra £5. If you are on a very tight budget and walk only occasionally on gentle paths, the MT100 will serve you adequately. But for serious walking, the MT900 is the clear winner.