Robens Grasmere T7 £46
These trekking poles are relatively cheap, but don’t skimp on design or materials. The shafts are made from high-quality 7075 grade aluminium alloy, with extended EVA foam rubber grips and fabric wrist straps.
The top of the handle is a softer rubber rather than a hard plastic. They have a switchable antishock system that is turned on or off with a quick twist. The poles have a wide range of adjustment too, ensuring one size fits most.
The three-piece telescopic design employs modern lever locks rather than the older-style twist-lock system. The locking pins are metal, but the collars and clamps are plastic, while the tips are tungsten carbide with screw-in baskets. They’re also supplied with a carry bag. Admittedly they’re not the lightest poles, but don’t feel too unwieldy either, and we’d be happy to trust them on a long-distance trip or big hillwalking day.
IF WE’RE BEING FUSSY...
Their ungainly 65cm collapsed length makes them awkward to attach to a daypack. They’re also comparatively heavy, and the plastic lever locks may not last as long as all-metal versions.
■ SHAFTS 7075 aluminium alloy
■ COLLAPSED LENGTH 65cm
■ ADJUSTMENT 100-135cm
■ WEIGHT PER PAIR 588g
Verdict
Simple but effective walking poles from a trusted brand. A little hefty in use and somewhat unwieldy when collapsed, but at this price still good value.