Mountain King

Super Trekker Speedlock £82

+ Superb value, strong aluminium construction, extended grip

- Not as premium as others, quite long when folded Made in the UK by Newcastle-based walking pole specialist Mountain King, the Super Trekker Speedlock is a no-nonsense, good quality pole at an excellent price. Made from a 7075 aluminium alloy, it feels strong and durable but sufficiently light (240g) to not weigh you down in the mountains. The EVA grip, which is contoured in the usual shape, is comfy and stable, while the excellent extended grip – Mountain King calls it the ‘middle grip’ – is generous in both thickness and length. Pole length is adjustable via two clamp levers, which can be easily tightened on-the-go using a little circular dial. When not in use, the pole segments slide into each other in the common telescopic way, condensing to 68cm for storage at home, in the car or in your pack. The straps do what they need to, as do the tungsten-carbide tips which provide good traction. Snow and trekking baskets, as well rubber tips, are included and a compact version is also available, weighing 6g less per pole with a maximum length of 120cm. It’s not as top-end as more expensive options, but at £82 per pair the Mountain King Super Trekker Speedlock is ideal for the price-conscious hillwalker.

LENGTH (folded-unfolded) 68-135cm WEIGHT (per pole) 240g