Estimate the best trekking pole length for hiking, backpacking, trail walking, steep climbs, descents, snow travel, and mixed terrain. This calculator uses your height, preferred elbow angle, terrain, slope, activity type, pack weight, and adjustable pole range.
Height:
The calculator starts with a common pole sizing estimate based on your height, then converts the result into centimeters and inches.
Terrain:
Uphill routes usually need shorter poles, while downhill routes usually need longer poles for reach and braking support.
Fit check:
The calculator checks whether the recommendation fits inside your adjustable pole range and shows a suggested range for mixed terrain.
A trekking pole sizing calculator helps set hiking poles to a comfortable starting length before a hike, backpacking trip, snowshoe route, steep descent, or long trail day.
Actual comfort depends on arm length, wrist strap use, terrain, footwear, pack weight, snow baskets, trail surface, and personal preference.
This calculator uses a practical starting point:
Standard Pole Length ≈ height × 0.68
On flat ground, trekking poles are often set so your elbow bends near 90 degrees when the pole tip touches the ground.
Yes. Shorter poles usually feel better uphill because the ground is higher in front of you and you need a compact, efficient plant.
Yes. Longer poles can help with reach, braking, balance, and knee relief on descents.
Adjustable poles are more flexible for mixed terrain, uphill, downhill, snow, and backpacking. Fixed-length poles can be lighter and simpler.