Best trekking poles for under $100

The Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber Poles deliver the best value to performance ratio, bar none.

• Price: $65
• Weight: 15.6
• Material: Carbon Fiber
• Adjustability: 2 Flip Locks
• Off-Trail Compatible: Yes
• Pros: Incredible Value. Sturdy.
• Cons: Mid-tier weight. Plastic flip locks.

Features

We’ve taken the CMT carbon trekking poles all over the world and continue to be astounded by how well they perform relative to their price.We have used them on and off trail, and they performed excellently even on treacherous cross country routes.

At 15.6 oz for a pair, they’re definitely midweight, and heavier than we prefer. But conversely, the heavier frame add strength, durability, and resilience to sudden extreme pressure events that might snap other poles

The straps are durable and unexciting. The cork and/or foam grips extend down for a low hold, compatible with uphill travel. CMT poles come with a bunch of different baskets and tip attachments.

Our only complaint aside from the weight, is the flip locks. These mechanisms are plastic where more expensive models use metal. We find they are more prone to wiggling loose than others, but not significantly and this is a minor problem once you know what to expect.

Verdict

CMT Trekking Poles are the least expensive carbon fiber model, and their performance to value is unmatched. They are an excellent all-around pole, and there is very little to complain about.

Compare these poles to more great options in our guide to the best trekking poles of the year.