TrailBuddy Trekking Poles – Adjustable Hiking Poles for Snowshoe & Backpacking Gear – Set of 2 Collapsible Walking Sticks . Aluminum with Cork Grip . Aqua Sky. TrailBuddy Trekking Poles (TM) offer the best combination of durable strength and lightweight portability in a complete set designed for the trekker’s comfort and ease of use. While carbon fiber is lighter than aluminum . it does not perform very well under lateral pressure – common issues include snapping especially when it gets stuck on rocky terrain. Aluminum will not snap. It might bend under extreme pressure . but you can more likely bend it back and continue using it. Changing the height of these telescoping poles from 24.5 to 54 inches is a breeze even when you’re wearing gloves or trekking in wet conditions thanks to its lever-locks. Aside from easy lengthening or shortening . poles with flip-locks can also be disassembled or reassembled easily. This is helpful if packing the trekking poles in a suitcase and shaving an inch or two off the assembled length is needed. With twist locks . it can be almost impossible to do this without breaking the poles.