Hello, Eerybody,
What trekking poles would you suggest? What material, anti- shock, or without? What price range? What companies, should I avoid buying something non-branded, usually from China?
Regards,

I've enjoyed using a set of Leki Makalu Antishock Trekking Poles. These are available from Campmor for $70 US (http://tinyurl.com/2spvh).

Omega
For more info try Backpacker.com Gear reviews. Every year
they print an issue with every thing reviewed tents,packs,ect.
Nice topic

Thanks
Lee

Have you read the reviews posted here? Lots of good information.

http://www.backpackgeartest.org/home.php

Bear

This site is also full of reviews and advice.

http://tinyurl.com/3xo75

I bought Leki Makalu poles several years ago. No complaints yet. They've seen the normal abuse from the past several years of varied terrain and conditions. Summer to winter I've used on them on every hike I've done.

Here are my guidlines for buying them-
1.) Buy the lightest you can find - you have to carry them around all the time make them light.
2.) NO-ANTI shock - never have seen the point of them
3.) NO-CORK grips - buy the simple durable rubber type grips

To sum it up , simple and light. If you use your poles correctly you won't even be using the grips so dont' waste money on the grip. Why complicate the matter w/ an anti-shock device. They make noise and imo are of limited value.

Been using poles for years. I have one cheap set from Gaylands(??) that collapse for carry, and so far have not collapsed in use. Good for when I just need them for part of a hike.

My favorite are Military Ski Poles. Strongest of anything I have found and have stood up to years of real abuse. Also cost only $2.00 each at a surplus store in California. Have never seen them anyplace else. Cut the grips off and replaced with wrapped line. Put a round knob on the top so if I fall on it I will reduce injury. Lighter, stronger and better than the big buck commercial poles.

I also have no use for fancy additions like shock absorbers or special shapes or grips.