Do you use trail running poles? There are several ways to carry your poles. The best option depends on your vest, your distance, and how often you use them.
Stick bag
On your vest
Running belt
In the hand
Table of contents
Take trail poles with you
Trail running poles (or running poles) are essential for steep climbs, long ultras, and technical terrain. But even the biggest pole fan doesn't spend the entire race with poles in hand. Flat sections, descents, or warm weather require one thing: store your trail poles smartly.
Fortunately, there are several ways to carry your trail poles. The best option depends on your vest, your distance, and how often you use them. We've listed the most common options.
The five options
1. Quiver/stick pocket (on the back of your vest)
What is it?
A separate pole pouch for your trail poles that attaches to the back of your trail vest. You slide your folded poles in from the top.
Advantages
Super-fast packing and storage
No hassle with elastics
Ideal for frequently switching between walking with and without poles
Disadvantages
Extra accessory
Not every vest is compatible by default
When is it ideal?
On mountain trails and ultras where you often need poles, many runners combine a quiver with lightweight, packable poles like those from LEKI.
2. Sticks on your vest – horizontal
What is it?
Sticks are attached horizontally to the back of the vest with elastic bands or straps.
Advantages
Good balance
No additional accessories required
Remains stable on technical descents
Disadvantages
Takes a little more time to confirm
Less convenient when changing frequently
When is it ideal?
For races where you mainly use poles on longer climbs and then not use them for a longer period of time.
3.Sticks on your vest – vertical
What is it?
The poles are attached vertically along your back or side of your vest.
Advantages
Compact
Works well with many modern trail vests
No waving sticks
Disadvantages
A little more difficult to reach
Depending on vest design
When is it ideal?
In races where you take poles mainly “just to be safe”, but you don’t use them constantly.
4. Running belt (hip belt)
What is it?
A wide trail running belt in which your poles are carried horizontally or diagonally.
Advantages
Light and minimalist
Ideal for short trails
No vest needed
Disadvantages
Less stable with heavier poles
Limited space
When is it ideal?
For shorter trails, UK-style races or if you prefer to run without a vest.
5. In hand (folded)
What is it?
Carry folded poles in one hand on short flat sections.
Advantages
Fast
No confirmation required
Disadvantages
Not comfortable on long distances
Limits your arm use
When is it ideal?
Only for short transitions — not as a structural solution.
Which method suits you?
The right way to carry your trail poles depends on:
how often you use them
whether you walk with a vest or belt
how technical the terrain is
personal preference
Many experienced trail runners combine solutions, for example:
quiver for quick changes
horizontal on vest for stability
belt for short runs
Running poles & accessories at Trail.nl
Bee Trail.nl you will not only find trail poles, but also quivers, vests and belts That are truly made for this. Everything selected based on practical experience—from fast mountain trails to long ultras.
Not sure which setup suits your running style? We're happy to help, online or in-store.
👉 Good poles deserve a smart carrying solution.
Dirk
Founder of Trail.NLHe's done a lot of running. From all kinds of mud runs to ultra-trails and from the well-known road marathons to hour-long runs. He's tested a lot of shoes and other gear.
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