For those seeking affordable Hiker Hunger Trekking Pole for day hikes or shorter multi-day treks without compromising comfort, this post is for you. I have extensively tested the Hiker Hunger carbon fiber trekking poles and will share the positives and negatives I discovered. This review aims to help you determine whether these poles suit your needs. I’ll cover all the specifications and provide my personal experience with them. I’m enamored with them!
However, being budget poles, certain features may have been sacrificed to maintain a low price point. I will provide all the details to decide if you’ll share my enthusiasm.
Before purchasing trekking poles, it’s essential to carefully evaluate your options, mainly if it’s your first time investing in them. I have a comprehensive hiking pole-buying guide that discusses the top prospects and factors to consider. You can find it here.
Now, let’s delve into the Hiker Hunger trekking poles. I have extensively tested them across various terrains, including muddy areas, rivers, rocky paths, and forested landscapes. These poles have consistently proven reliable during easy, challenging day trips and multi-day treks.
Grip and Adjustment Feature in Hiker Hunger Trekking Pole
Hiker Hunger Trekking Pole’s cork grip is incredibly comfortable and a luxurious feature considering the affordable price of the hiking pole. It also includes an extended EVA foam sleeve for varying terrains. I don’t utilize this feature as I prefer keeping my hands comfortably in the straps.
On the downside, adjusting the straps to a larger size proved challenging. Reducing their size has never been an issue. When hiking with a friend, I lent him one of my poles; he needed to enlarge the straps. However, neither of us could do so initially; they seemed stuck. Weeks later, I attempted again and adjusted the belt to a larger loop.
Nevertheless, the plastic tab used to secure the strap on the Hiker Hunger trekking pole is somewhat fragile. If excessive force is applied, it may break. Due to this incident, I have refrained from further adjusting the strap size.
Locking system and adjustability in Hiker Hunger Trekking Pole
Hiker Hunger Trekking Pole features a telescopic design with two lever-locking mechanisms for adjusting the pole length. The poles can be shortened or lengthened using these locks. They can extend up to 54 inches and collapse to 24 inches, making them convenient to carry, even when unused.
The locks are made of metal, while the components holding them together are plastic. They are user-friendly, but extending the bottom of the pole by approximately 10 cm is vital for stability. When primarily adjusting the upper part, you may notice that the bottom part of the pole isn’t securely tightened and may shorten underweight.
This issue often arises when the small metal screw that tightens the locks becomes loose. Initially, it was bothersome, but now I know the need for regular tightening, so I have been fine. I usually tighten the locks before resuming walking after taking a break.
Weight
The Hiker Hunger poles weigh a mere 431 gr/15.2 oz, making them incredibly lightweight and easy to attach to your pack. Even when carrying heavy backpacking gear, these poles remain manageable.
Carbon fiber, the material used in constructing these hiking poles, is lightweight and inflexible. While this means it may snap instead of bending when it breaks, these poles are pretty sturdy despite their lightness. They are suitable for everyday hikes.
Versatility in Hiker Hunger Trekking Pole
Compared to other budget poles, the Hiker Hunger walking sticks offer exceptional versatility with numerous attachments. Although I haven’t tested them in snowy conditions (since snow hiking isn’t common in Andalucia), they would perform adequately on easy snowy terrain.
Durability These poles feel sufficiently sturdy to withstand regular use. However, I wouldn’t recommend tossing them around with the locks open, as the lock quality could be better. Nevertheless, when properly locked, they remain secure and fulfill their intended purpose.
Durability
I have encountered a few reviews from long-distance hikers who reported that their Hiker Hunger trekking poles snapped at the bottom while traversing rough terrain. Consequently, I wouldn’t consider them the ideal choice for the Appalachian Trail or the PCT. However, for average hikers embarking on weekend adventures or occasional week-long backpacking trips, I am confident that Hiker Hunger has produced high-quality carbon fiber trekking poles capable of lasting for years.
Comfort
Hiker Hunger trekking poles offer exceptional comfort with their ergonomically shaped cork handles. However, the straps could be slightly more comfortable. Additionally, the padded part around the hand is relaxed, but I noticed that I have two “left sides,” leaving my thumb on the right hand uncovered. While this may be an issue with the strap adjustments, I’m hesitant to make further adjustments if they become stuck again. The length adjustment mechanism quickly loosens, causing discomfort when one pole suddenly shortens due to a loose screw. However, this is the first time I have experienced this recently since I remember to tighten them whenever I stop. Overall, the poles are highly comfortable for walking uphill, downhill, and on rocky terrain.
Hiker Hunger Review: Pros and Cons of Trekking Poles To summarize, here are the key aspects I appreciate and have some reservations about regarding these Hiker Hunger poles.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Easy to adjust
- Comfortable cork handles
- Padded straps for added comfort
- Affordable
- Includes multiple attachments
- Provides excellent value for money
- Backed by a 1-year manufacturer warranty
- Replacement pieces are available for pole repairs instead of discarding them
Cons:
- Length adjustment tends to loosen easily and requires regular tightening
- Flip locks feel somewhat fragile when open
- Straps are challenging to widen
- A few long-distance hikers have reported poles snapping at the bottom.
Final Say
I hope this Hiker Hunger trekking pole review has helped you decide if they’re right for you. They’re great for day hikes and shorter multi-day treks. But it may not be ideal for long-distance treks. They’re lightweight and fold easily, making them convenient to attach to most day hiking backpacks. Check the current price of Hiker Hunger poles here. If you’re still uncertain and want to explore other hiking poles, read my article on the best ones. Happy hiking!