Are Eurohike trekking poles from Millets any good for beginners?
Yes—Eurohike trekking poles from Millets are a reasonable budget option for beginners, but they come with significant caveats. They are cheap, functional, and widely available, making them an accessible entry point into pole walking. However, they are built to a price, and their limitations become apparent on longer or more demanding walks. This article provides a balanced review, explaining when they are a good choice, when they are not, and what alternatives to consider.
The pros: why they are a good starting point
1. Price
Eurohike poles typically cost £15‑30 per pair. This is significantly cheaper than mid‑range poles (e.g., Decathlon Forclaz MT500 at £40‑50) and premium poles (e.g., Leki Makalu at £80‑100). For a beginner who is unsure whether they will stick with pole walking, this low cost reduces the financial risk. You can try them out and see if poles suit your walking style without making a large investment.
2. Basic functionality
They have the essential features: an adjustable shaft (twist‑lock or flick‑lock), an aluminium tube, a foam grip, and a rubber ferrule. They will hold a length and provide basic support on flat, even ground. They are perfectly adequate for a short, gentle walk on a clear day.
3. Availability
Millets has stores across the UK, and Eurohike poles are widely available. You can try them in‑store, check the weight, and feel the grip before buying. This is a significant advantage over buying online, especially for a beginner who may not know what to look for.
The cons: where they fall short
1. Weight
Eurohike poles are heavy, typically 280‑320g per pole. This is significantly heavier than a mid‑range pole (220‑250g) or a premium pole (180‑220g). Over a long walk, the extra weight will cause arm fatigue, especially for a beginner who may not have the upper‑body strength to handle a heavy swing.
2. Lock reliability
The biggest issue with budget poles is the lock. Eurohike poles often use a twist‑lock mechanism, which is less reliable than a flick‑lock (lever‑lock). In wet or muddy conditions, the internal expander can become clogged, causing the pole to slip or seize. A slipping pole can be dangerous on uneven ground, as it may collapse when you lean on it. Flick‑locks (found on the slightly more expensive Eurohike models) are more reliable, but even they are not as robust as the locks on premium brands.
3. Grip quality
The foam grips on Eurohike poles are often thin and can become slippery when you sweat. Over a long walk, this can lead to blisters or hand fatigue. The foam also compresses over time, losing its cushioning effect.
4. Durability
The aluminium used in Eurohike poles is a lower‑grade alloy (often not 7075‑T6), which is more prone to bending. A sharp impact on a rock can easily bend the shaft, rendering the pole useless. The locking mechanisms can also wear out quickly with regular use.
When to choose Eurohike poles
- For a short, flat walk: If you are walking on a canal path, a park, or a gentle forest track, Eurohike poles will work fine.
- For a beginner on a budget: If you are unsure about pole walking and don't want to spend much, they are a good way to test the waters.
- For a child or teenager: Children grow quickly, and you may not want to invest in a premium pair. Eurohike poles are a good stop‑gap.
When to avoid them
- For a long‑distance walk (e.g., 10+ miles): The weight and unreliable lock will become a liability.
- For use on steep, uneven terrain: A slipping lock can be dangerous on steep descents.
- For use in wet or muddy conditions: The twist‑lock will clog, and the pole will slip.
- For regular use: If you plan to walk regularly, invest in a better pair. Eurohike poles are not built to last.
A better budget alternative: Decathlon Forclaz
For a similar price point, the Decathlon Forclaz MT500 (or the MT900 for a slightly higher budget) is a much better choice. The MT500 has a flick‑lock (which is far more reliable than a twist‑lock), a lighter shaft (around 240g), and a better grip. It is available in‑store and online and represents a significant upgrade in quality for a modest increase in price.
Summary table
| Feature | Eurohike (Budget) | Decathlon Forclaz MT500 | Premium (Leki, Black Diamond) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | £15‑30 | £40‑50 | £80‑150+ |
| Weight | 280‑320g | 240‑250g | 180‑230g |
| Lock | Twist‑lock (often) | Flick‑lock | Flick‑lock (robust) |
| Grip | Thin foam | Cork/foam hybrid | Cork (comfortable) |
| Durability | Low | Moderate | High |
| Best for | Short, flat walks | Mixed terrain | All terrain, long distances |
The verdict
Eurohike trekking poles from Millets are a reasonable budget option for beginners, particularly for short, flat walks on a clear day. They are cheap, functional, and readily available. However, their weight, unreliable lock, and poor grip make them unsuitable for long walks, steep terrain, or wet conditions. If you are serious about walking, invest in a better pair, such as the Decathlon Forclaz MT500 or MT900, which offer significantly better reliability, weight, and comfort for a modest increase in price. For beginners, Eurohike poles are an acceptable first step, but they are not a long‑term solution.
