Vipole Approach Trekking Poles (Pair)

Lightweight Foldable Aluminum Hiking Poles with Quicklock Adjustment

The Vipole Approach Trekking Poles are Italian-engineered folding poles built for hikers who need serious packability without giving up strength. These aren't flimsy collapsible poles that flex under load. The shafts are milled from aerospace grade 7075 aluminum in a thin profile (12/14/16mm taper), which keeps the weight per pole at a genuine 215 grams while maintaining the rigidity needed for alpine terrain, steep descents and heavy pack loads. They fold down to a compact size using a pop up system, extend quickly to anywhere between 110cm and 130cm via Quicklock adjusters, and include all the accessories you need for year-round use in New Zealand. For trampers, thru-hikers and mountaineers who value reliable gear that packs small and performs when it matters, these are poles worth carrying.

Key Features

• Aircraft grade 7075 aluminum shafts in a thin 12/14/16mm taper, delivering exceptional strength-to-weight ratio at just 215g per pole
• Pop up foldable design that collapses for compact storage and deploys quickly when you need support on the trail
• Quicklock height adjustment from 110cm to 130cm, allowing precise tuning for uphill climbs, flat terrain and downhill sections
• Mid-size RoundHead EVA grip with extended foam sections for comfortable hand positions on steep terrain without constant adjustment
• Automatic plume strap system that secures your wrist while allowing quick release when needed
• Carbide tips for durability on rock, gravel and hard-packed trails, plus 32mm round trekking baskets for soft ground and muddy conditions

Real-World Use

You're three days into the Routeburn Track and the morning started with a steep climb out of the Routeburn Falls Hut. The trail's uneven, your pack is sitting at 12kg, and your knees are already reminding you why trekking poles exist. The Vipole Approach poles extend to the right height in seconds, lock solid, and the EVA grips give you multiple hand positions as the gradient changes. By the time you reach the saddle, your legs feel fresher than they would without poles, and when the trail flattens out, the poles fold down small enough to strap to your pack while you cover easier ground. This is what reliable trekking poles should do: support you when it's hard, disappear when it's not, and never let you down in between.

Specifications

• Shaft Material: Aluminum 7075 (aircraft grade)
• Shaft Diameter: 12mm / 14mm / 16mm (tapered profile)
• Adjustable Height Range: 110cm to 130cm
• Locking Mechanism: Quicklock
• Folding System: Pop up foldable
• Weight per Pole: 215g
• Weight per Pair: 430g
• Grip Material: Mid-size RoundHead EVA foam
• Strap Type: Automatic plume strap
• Tip Material: Carbide
• Basket Type: 32mm trekking round pad
• Collapsed Length: Compact (specific measurement varies with fold configuration)
• Country of Origin: Made in Italy
• Suitable For: Hiking, tramping, backpacking, mountaineering, multi-day treks

What's Included

• 2 x Vipole Approach Trekking Poles (pair)
• 2 x Carbide tips (pre-installed)
• 2 x 32mm round trekking baskets
• 2 x Automatic plume wrist straps
• 1 x Deluxe carriage bag for transport and storage
• Product information and care instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do the pop up foldable poles work, and are they reliable?
A: The pop up foldable system uses an internal cord mechanism that allows the pole sections to collapse for packing and extend quickly when deployed. Unlike twist-lock folding poles, the Quicklock adjusters at the top section allow precise height changes while the lower sections remain rigid. This design is proven in alpine environments and withstands the lateral stress of steep terrain.

Q: What is the difference between 7075 aluminum and standard aluminum poles?
A: 7075 aluminum is an aerospace grade alloy with significantly higher strength and better resistance to bending compared to standard 6061 aluminum. This allows the Vipole Approach to use thinner shaft diameters (12/14/16mm) without sacrificing durability, which reduces weight while maintaining performance under load.

Q: Can I use these poles for ski touring or winter hiking?
A: Yes, though you will need to purchase snow baskets separately if planning to use them in deep snow conditions. The carbide tips and robust construction make them suitable for winter use, but the included 32mm round baskets are designed for trekking on solid ground and won't provide adequate flotation in powder.