These poles are certainly adequate for the average hikers’ needs. Not as light weight as trekking poles could be but if you are looking for reasonably priced and reliable equipment, these fit the bill. The Hikker HP-5‘s have a comfortable cork handle with nylon strap and a small EVA grip for use when the stick is folded. The telescopic stick is made of 3 strong aluminum alloy sections and can be adjusted to a desired height between 55″ and 27 1/2″. It also has spring-loaded anti-shock mechanism inside which can be turned on/off with a twist between the two sections.
Materials
Like the Neewer, the shaft of the Hikker HP-5 trekking pole is a light aluminum alloy. Each hiking pole weighs around 13 ounces. There’s a two-stage grip with a rubber section for carrying when collapsed and a “cork” handle for hikers to hold when walking. This type of handle gives a great firm grip and isn’t affected by extreme temperatures but it can be prone to damage. Like most trekking poles, the wrist strap is adjustable and flexible.
Adjustability & Features
The Hikker Hiking Pole’s range of adjustment (27 – 55 inches) is similar to that of the Neewer, and there’s a measured section in the middle for quick setting. The Hikker also uses the same kind of rotational lock as the Neewer. Rather than a metal tip, however, the Hikker has a carbide tip that is claimed to be tougher than steel. This tip has the usual rubber ferrule to cover it when not in use. To prevent the tip from sinking in snow or soft ground, the manufacturer includes a “snow disk” that is very similar to the Neewer’s snow / mud basket. You also get a compass and a thermometer; these two items are located on the wrist strap rather than the handle.
Performance
Hikker trekking poles are what many would consider ideal entry-level equipment. They’re great for those who want to try poles without spending a lot of money. Quite a few owners use them for Nordic walking and hill or desert trips. These supportive poles are of a higher quality than the Neewer model, although they too receive some criticism in terms of occasional breakage and problems with the twist locks. The Hikker poles perform at their best in moderate conditions; they’re not designed for “extreme” outdoor challenges.
Price
The Hikker HP-5 Hiking poles offer a range of benefits that is similar to the Neewer pole. To be fair, these poles get many of the same criticisms, too. The “cork” handle isn’t actually made of cork (that would be too fragile), but most owners think it’s decently comfortable. There’s a generally higher production standard to the Hikker, and while some don’t like the rotational locks, it’s a complaint you hear about that kind of mechanism on most hiking poles – not just the Hikker. Nordic walkers in particular favor these poles, which should give a good indication of the kind of terrain they’re suited for.
Ordering
You can purchase them directly at Amazon.com here.
Conclusion
For the money, they are indeed decent poles but they are not as good as the inexpensive trekking poles we have reviewed. We view these poles as a great opportunity for someone to try out using poles if they do not want to make a big upfront investment. Then, if you feel they would be beneficial, you can upgrade and keep these for guests to use. The handles were not comfortable. They tend to break and snap very easily. Also, the locks did not work sometimes. They are cheap and low quality and we would not recommend for any serious hiker.
Hikker HP-5 Anti-shock Hiking Poles
Pros
- Sturdy
- Decent grip
- Cheap
Cons
- Uncomfortable strap
- Pole vibrates a lot
- No mud basket
- Easily break
