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Trekking Poles: REI Co-op Trailbreak ($70)

While not every hiker uses trekking poles, they are a useful tool for minimizing impact on joints and increasing stability. For a budget option, we turn to REI Co-op’s Trailbreak poles. With an aluminum build, rubber grips, and telescoping design with lever locks, the Trailbreak gets the job done for just $70. And while REI only offers the poles in one size, they’re adjustable from 105 to 140 centimeters, and the foam grips are contoured to be comfortable in a wide range of hand sizes. You can spend up for lighter, more packable, and more durable models, but in the end the Trailbreak provides basic balance and support for most established trails.



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