Perks
Budget hikers and back-country travelers appreciate the low price point of Wenger trekking poles. Grips are comfortable and ergonomically designed to fit the curve of the hands and palms. A built-in compass on the top of the grips provides an added safety feature for hikers heading into the back country. Barrel-twist adjustments are stout and hold even under stress and hard placements when hiking in rocky or hard pack environments.
Sacrifices
Wenger poles are heavier than other brands. When fully compacted, the Wenger pole measures 40 inches, making it longer than similar brands of poles that compact to only 24 inches. Only one barrel adjustment is on each pole, making it a longer pole choice.
Bottom Line
Wenger Trekking poles are a solid choice for hikers heading onto loamy forest trails; hard-packed snow, ice or desert country; and alpine scree and talus slopes. The carbide tip gives the poles add longevity when planting into hard-pack. The bargain price makes them an attractive choice for hikers and backpackers.
Article Written By Eric Cedric
A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.
