MUDDY BEAR Ultra Lightweight Trekking Poles - cork grip - 2-pc Pack Adjustable Hiking Stick - Walking Poles - Aluminum 7075 stronger than carbon fiber

This was my first time buying hiking poles and I have looked at several different types in physical stores and online. I chose these for the cork handles and the various hand placement options. I didn't want foam handles as on other budget friendly options because of sensory issues with texture, however the foam part of the handle below the cork grip is actually nice feeling so wouldn't have been a problem. The cork however is grippy without becoming sweaty.I went for a hike with only one pole initially to save weight if I didn't like using it and had to carry it in my rucksack. I was able to comfortably use it for a 12 mile walk in hot weather without strain. It packed away short enough to go in my rucksack when I went into a shop at the start of my walk.Even with one pole not two I felt more confident traversing some rough ground and it did save me from going arse over tit at least twice. The twist locks were secure and didn't budge even with my considerable weight on them.The plain finish is nice and didn't scratch or mark even when crossing rocks . My only thing I'm keeping an eye on is the durability of the rubber foot as it is showing wear already (though two more sets were included in the bag so won't need to track down replacements for a while yet).

Decided to buy a pair of cheap hiking sticks to see how I got on with them whilst treking? Never needed them before, but age is slowly creeping up and now need a pair. Brought these to try out and then buy a more expensive pair if all went well? So having tried them out? I won't be buying a more expensive pair as I find these Muddy bears are super! light weight and strong and the price of the pair are so cheap its kind of crazy, compared with some that are just as good but twice or three times the price? One of my better buys and very happy with my super sticks!

This is the first time I have ever bought or used hiking poles. So when they arrived I faffed about for a while watching you tube videos on how to adjust and use them as they do not come with any real helpful advise. They are a good sturdy pole and comfortable when you get used to using them...took me about 15 minutes to get the wrist strap to fit. It would help if the straps could be shortened even more, as I had to twist them once round my wrist to get a comfortable feel. I like the colour (blue) and the cork grips are great.

These are good-looking poles, and a bargain. They are light but solid with a shock-absorbing effect that kicks in when you press quite down hard. So far they have remained easy to adjust, not getting stuck in position like some other cheap poles. Would buy again.

Only used these a couple of times since ordering and seem quite easy to use (as should be the case with walking poles!?). I like the cork handle as it improves the grip - how long they will last is another matter; but as I say, early days...My one immediate gripe is that the 'mechanism' to adjust the length of the poles would appear to be broken on one them and it no longer retracts. Not a huge problem just very irritating and means that the pole in question will not fit in the supplied bag - but I intend to keep them in the boot of the car...Initial impressions are that they represent good value for money - would be almost perfect if not for the fault on the one pole ;)9 Aug 2019 - used these most days and I would definitely recommend (despite one of them not retracting...). Has speed up my walking speed and no longer quite so wary of heavily rutted ground; they have saved me going over on my ankle several times! Also useful for navigating some of the puddles found on the downs! All in all - very satisfied and would have no hesitation in recommending!

799 km pilgirmage

An excellent product. I have bought three different products before, all of which left a lot to be desired and ending up in the proverbial dustbin. The Muddy Bear pole/stick is by far the best I have come across. It is well thought through, constructed and a joy to use. I am an ‘old git’ who spent years playing serious sport, walking, climbing and Fell running until a gardening injury put me in hospital at the age of sixty-six! I had to learn to walk again. I now require the aid of a stick/pole and this product is a godsend. I would recommend it to anyone without any hesitation whatsoever.

These are a great product. The Cork handle is very comfortable. They are easily altered for length and the twist and lock mechanism holds well. I put a lot of weight on them going down steep steps and they didn't let me down. Thy have springs inside which helps with shock absorption on the wrists. Great Poles for the price!

I don't normally provide reviews, but this product is “almost” perfect and thought I would provide a little more perspective so the designers can improve these poles. The poles are priced less than most others, the aluminum is light and very strong, the locking mechanism does not slip, AND the shock absorber is awesome and not available on most other trekking poles. This was a great design feature for such low cost poles.Got the “pink” trekking poles for my wife since I have a darker color from another manufacturer. But, I have used them as I consider replacing my more expensive competitive brand for a pair of these when my break. Mine are carbon fiber, but I notice minimal difference in weight or pole flex. The price and functionality of these are a 5 out of 5. If the price were more than $40 I would reduce the rating to a 4. There are a few issues that could be improved to make these a 5 out of 5 compared to the toughest competitors. (1) As mentioned in other reviews the twisting action to lock these three sections provide a reliable lock position, but can be difficult when hands are wet, or you are exhausted after a long hike, or if you old like me with reduced gripping strength. The three sections are very smooth aluminum – very smooth. I suggest they rework the top and bottom sections and simply add a small knurled section into the aluminum on these two sections so that we can get a grip without using gloves or other assistance. (2) Round the top of the rubber handle and angle the top backward, instead of forwards. These poles are not comfortable if you occasionally want to rest your thumb on top of the pole, which I do. Due to the forward angle and sharp rubber edge it is uncomfortable doing so. I wouldn't be so critical on the point if I weren't able to compare to my other poles, which have a very comfortable top shape. (3) Make the rubber trekking tips fit a little tighter. On our second trek one tip disappeared somewhere in the pristine wilderness. We didn't want to leave garbage in the mountains, but it just hopped off somewhere. Also, it would be well worth the price and future goodwill if Muddy Bear would consider providing two sets of tips. Adding the extra cost to the poles would be appreciated since everyone will need another set eventually and it would be nice to carry that extra set in the backpack. I would gladly pay the upcharge for this convenience feature.One last observation – the poles will only collapse to 26”, but will collapse to 23” if you pull out the third section (then you have to items to deal with). These poles are great for local hikes when you can carry them in your vehicle, but will look for a shorter set of collapsible poles (15”) that will fit in luggage when traveling. These poles feel very rigid and sections are tight which is perfect for aggressive trekking. I look forward to your next generation of poles. Thanks Muddy Bear.

These poles are good for the price, lightweight and sturdy though my old poles by Swiss that I bought at Walmart many years ago were much sturdier, especially in the handles, but then they were heavier too and not what you want when hiking. I actually started Nordic walking after I purchased them for trekking and they work fine for that—don’t need expensive Nordic poles. I did need to buy the flexible feet afterwards (different maker) to walk on flat terrain as you do with Nordic walking. Also I would add the straps say they are adjustable and you do need a tighter strap with Nordic walking but they default back to the full length easily. I addressed this with the maker because it shouldn’t say adjustable if it doesn’t hold the adjustment—if that makes sense, but I’m making them work. Good value

Very nice stick. Easy to adjust, cork handle is a must. As good or better than a lot of the higher priced hiking/walking sticks.

Very nice poles.

Best price I've ever seen for poles with internal shock absorbers!! As another mentioned, top of cork handle has a lip that slightly rubs on the thunb--- just file it down a tad & it's perfect. Easy peazy.