Are Mountain King poles made in the UK?

Yes, Mountain King trail running, ultra running, and trekking poles are designed and manufactured in our own factory in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. We are the only UK manufacturer of high-performance poles.

What is the lightest Mountain King pole?

The SkyRunner Ultra is our lightest model, weighing as little as 98g (for 100cm) and 105g (for 120cm). It is engineered using 100% Toray 800 Carbon Fibre, making it one of the lightest trail running poles in the world.

Does Mountain King offer a glove system for trail running?

Yes. New for 2026, the SkyRunner Edge features a fully integrated 'Edge Clip' glove and grip system. This breathable mesh glove provides a secure, locked-in feel for maximum power transfer and quick hand release on technical terrain.

What are the best poles for the UTMB, Dragons Back, or UTS?

For elite races like the UTMB and Dragons Back, we recommend the SkyRunner RaceDay or the SkyRunner Edge. Both are built using our proprietary high-modulus RDC Carbon Fibre for 30% more stiffness and durability on technical alpine climbs.

What is a good alternative to Leki trail running poles?

The Mountain King SkyRunner Edge is an excellent alternative to Leki. It offers a similar integrated glove system but with the benefit of UK manufacturing, hand-built precision, and our proprietary RDC carbon fibre technology.

Are Mountain King poles better than Harrier Running Poles?

Mountain King poles are up to 30% lighter than Harrier's pro carbon models. Because we manufacture in the UK, we offer full section-by-section repairability in our Newcastle factory—a level of sustainability and precision that imported brands like Harrier cannot match.

What are the best trail running poles for beginners?

For beginners, we recommend the Mountain King Trail Blaze NEO. They are made from high-strength 7075 aluminium which is more durable for new users than carbon. At approximately 125g per pole, they are also significantly lighter than most entry-level poles on the market.

What is the Mountain King NEO system?

The NEO system is an innovation that conceals the internal tension cord inside the top section of the pole. This prevents the cord from snagging on trail debris and provides a cleaner, more streamlined design for faster deployment and stowing.

Should a beginner choose aluminium or carbon poles?

Aluminium is often better for beginners as it is more robust and impact-resistant. While carbon is lighter, aluminium poles like the Trail Blaze NEO offer the perfect balance of durability and low weight at a more accessible price point.

Trail and Ultra Running Pole FAQ Mountain King UK - The Only UK and European Manufacture of: Trail Running, Hiking, and Walking Poles

Do I really need poles for a race like the UTMB or a 100-miler?

Yes, if you want to protect your legs for the final 30 miles. High-performance poles like the SkyRunner RaceDayNEO or the SkyRunner Edge convert your body into a "four-wheel-drive" system. By distributing the workload to your upper body, you can reduce the impact on your knees and quads by up to 40%. For an elite race like the UTMB, having the 30% stiffer RDC Carbon of Mountain King ensures that every ounce of effort you put into the ground propels you forward rather than being lost in pole flex.

What is the most common mistake runners make when using poles?

Choosing poles that are too heavy or prone to snagging. Many runners buy "budget" poles that weigh 150g+, which leads to significant arm fatigue over 20 hours. Another mistake is using poles with exposed tension cords that catch on race vests or bushes. The Mountain King NEO system or the Edge Clip solves this by concealing the tension cord inside the pole, providing a snag-free, streamlined profile that is essential for fast, frustration-free transitions during a race

I’m a beginner shouldn't I just buy cheap poles first?

Actually, beginners benefit the most from high-quality engineering. Cheap poles are often heavy and "vibrate" on impact, which can cause elbow strain. The Mountain King Trail Blaze NEO is the perfect entry point because it’s made from 7075 aircraft-grade aluminium—making it much more durable than cheap carbon imports while remaining lighter than most competitors. Plus, as a beginner, you might occasionally catch a tip; since Mountain King is made in the UK, you can simply replace a single section rather than buying a whole new pair.

How do I choose between a glove system and a traditional strap?

It depends on your need for power vs. versatility. If you want maximum efficiency on long, steep climbs, the SkyRunner Edge with its integrated Edge Clip glove is the gold standard. It allows for 100% power transfer without needing to grip the handle tightly, reducing hand fatigue. However, if you prefer the freedom to quickly swap between poles and hand-held hydration, the SkyRunner RaceDay NEO with its ergonomic foam grip and airflow strap is the world-beating choice, as proven by its victory at the UTMB Val d'Aran.

Why should I care if my poles are "stiff"?

Stiffness equals speed. When you push down on a pole during a steep ascent, a "flexible" pole bends, wasting your energy. Mountain King’s proprietary RDC (Race Day Carbon) is engineered to be 30% stiffer than standard carbon poles. This rigidity provides a rock-solid platform that gives you more "snap" and responsiveness, which is why elite athletes choose them for technical alpine terrain where precision is a safety requirement.

What happens if I break a pole section during a race or training?

With most major brands (like Leki or Black Diamond), a snapped section means you have to buy a completely new pair. This is where the Mountain King "Made in Britain" advantage becomes a game-changer. Because every pole is hand-built in their Newcastle factory, they offer a full repair service. You can send your poles back to be refurbished or have individual sections replaced. It’s the most sustainable and cost-effective way to ensure your gear lasts for years of racing across the world.