ALPS Mountaineering Classic Trekker Gray

The wood tip is great for propping up tarps and the thread mount makes a great monopod in a pinch. Quality is on par with top dollar trekking poles.

This trekking pole is sturdy and strong! Great pole for the money.

I was concerned about the outside clamps for adjustment, but they work fine and aren't a problem. This is my single walking stick for all-around use. I have double sticks (with suspension) for all-dirt hikes.

A bit heavy and the locking mechanism could be better but still putting it through the paces. Works ok on trail.

In a move across country the moving company somehow misplaced my much-loved Trekker hiking staff (no longer manufactured) However, this was the closest thing I could find, and it did not disappoint. ALPS mountaineering is a quality brand (I own a Tent of theirs as well) and this staff is just as well made.

I used this pole for about 75 miles while carrying a child carrier. The pole held up well and was simple to adjust. I like that this pole has a carbide tip for added bite, some other options just had steel. I never ended up using the camera thread, but did like having the option available. I was worried about the wood knob, but it never seemed to loosen or show any sign of breaking. I occasionally had to tighten the tension on the extension levers, but it doesn't require tools of any kind. 4 stars would be 5 if the foam grip had some type of shape to it, it's not as comfortable as trekking poles that have a hand contour but still was okay for all my mileage.

As a solid monopod that doubles as a trekking pole, it is good, but not great. If I need it on a particular trip to steady a camera, I will take this one as one of my poles. If not, I will stick to a standard ALPS model that has a shaped, more ergonomic grip.The locking mechanism is better for a pole that may be frequently adjusted than the twist lock types.

I was really surprised at the quality of this staff. I've had common brand names in the past that we use for wading in slick rivers. Most of them have plastic parts all over, but this one uses aluminum parts. In addition, the locks are adjustable, so you can get the correct amount of locking force.