How to refurbish old trekking poles for resale or donation?

A thorough clean and service can transform an old, neglected pair of trekking poles into attractive, fully functional gear that will serve a new owner well. Whether you are selling them, donating to a charity, or passing them on to a friend, a little effort makes a big difference. Here is a step‑by‑step guide to refurbishing your old poles.

1. Clean thoroughly – the most important step

First impressions matter. A clean pair of poles looks cared for and suggests they are in good working order.

• Extend the poles fully – This gives you access to all sections.
• Wash with warm, soapy water – Use a mild dish soap and a sponge or cloth. Pay special attention to the locking mechanisms, the ferrule (the metal collar above the tip), and the area around the basket.
• Use a brush – An old toothbrush is perfect for cleaning the grooves, threads, and crevices of twist‑lock mechanisms.
• Rinse thoroughly – Ensure all soap residue is removed.
• Dry completely – Wipe with a cloth and leave the poles extended in a warm, well‑ventilated area for several hours. Moisture left inside can cause corrosion.

2. Replace high‑wear items

Replacing a few small parts can make a huge difference to the pole's performance and appearance.

• Carbide tips – Worn or rounded tips are the most common issue. Replacing them is cheap (£10–15 per pair) and dramatically improves grip. Most quality poles have user‑replaceable tips.
• Wrist straps – Old straps can be frayed, discoloured, or stiff. New straps (available from Decathlon, Adventure Sport, or online) look neat and function better.
• Baskets – If the baskets are cracked or worn, replace them. They are inexpensive and easy to fit.
• Foam grips – If the foam is cracked or compressed, you can wrap them with tennis racket grip tape or self‑amalgamating silicone tape. This gives a fresh, comfortable surface.

3. Lubricate and adjust locks

Locks that are stiff, sticky, or uneven can make the poles feel neglected. A little care restores smooth operation.

• Lever locks – Apply a tiny drop of silicone spray to the pivot pins. Wipe off any excess. Tighten the adjusting screw with a hex key if the lever feels loose.
• Twist locks – Apply a very thin layer of silicone grease to the threads. Wipe off any excess.
• Check the tension – Both poles should lock securely at the same length. If one is harder to tighten than the other, it may need adjustment.

4. Cosmetic touch‑ups

Minor scratches and scuffs can be reduced.

• Aluminium shafts – Use fine‑grit sandpaper (400‑800 grit) to gently smooth light scratches. Wipe with a cloth, then apply a thin layer of car wax or furniture polish to protect the finish.
• Carbon shafts – Do not sand carbon fibre – it can damage the resin. Wipe clean with a cloth and a little isopropyl alcohol.

5. Check overall condition

Before offering the poles for resale or donation, give them a final test:

• Lock test – Extend both poles to the same length and put your weight on them. They should hold firmly without slipping.
• Bend test – Roll each section on a flat surface to check for straightness.
• Tip test – Plant the pole on a hard surface – it should grip without skidding.

6. Package neatly

Presentation matters.

• Collapse the poles – Fold or collapse them to their minimum length.
• Secure with a strap – Use a rubber band, Velcro strap, or the original pole keeper to hold them together.
• Include a note – A brief note listing any replaced parts (e.g., "New tips fitted, straps replaced") gives confidence to the buyer or recipient.
• Clean the bag – If the poles come with a storage bag, wash or wipe it clean.

7. Where to sell or donate

• Sell – Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Gumtree, or outdoor gear exchange groups.
• Donate – Local walking groups, Scout groups, charities that support outdoor activities, or a friend who is just starting out.

8. Final verdict

Refurbishing old trekking poles is a simple, rewarding task. A thorough clean, new tips, fresh straps, and a little lubrication can turn a worn pair of poles into a desirable item. Whether you sell them to fund new gear or donate them to help others enjoy the outdoors, your efforts will be appreciated. A few hours of work can give your old poles a second life – and keep them out of landfill.