Rubber Tips for Trekking Poles: Why & What Kind to Consider

Rubber tips are sold as optional accessories for trekking poles.  They’re NOT optional.   The travel tips that come with many poles (clear, orange or black plastic) are garbage – toss them out (or recycle them).   In many of this blog’s updates we describe how rubber tips improve performance, prevent joint strain, increase safety and enhance your outdoor experiences.

There are 3 tips we like and they all fit on the poles we like:  LEKI, Black Diamond (2 models only) and Exerstrider.

Our product recommendations are based on an individual’s structure, issues and goals.

One size does NOT fit all.  Short poles are sold as “women’s” poles – after all, we all know there are no tall women and no compact guys….. Back to rubber tips (sorry for the rant). 🙂

• The basic hiking tip (on left) sells for $5/pair and is perfect for pavement walking and slick rock.  They fit nicely in your pocket or pack and are perfect to store on poles when they’re not in use.
• The bell tip (middle) adds significant stability for our mobility-challenged pole users.
• The boot (right) is super cool and adds both cushion and propulsion for our exercise walkers.  The bell and the boot sell for about $10/pair.

When we  fit a person for poles, part of that process includes determining what tip works and feels best.  For example, a person who needs a bit more “cushion” because of shoulder or wrist issues might like the boot.  Or does the anti-shock feature “fit”?  Which grip fits and feels best?  Are trekking poles gloves indicated?

It’s not rocket science, but  finding the pair of poles that will serve a lifetime, poles with which you can develop a loving connection, is a bit of an art.   My poles are about 12 years old and I LOVE them.  They get more comfortable every year and they serve me well out OTT (on the trail).  Because I use my rubber tips when I need them, the trail tips are still razor sharp and perform as designed.