REI Co-op

REI Co-op Traverse

Ranked #9 in Trekking Poles

506 LP on the category ladder what's LP?

Community sourcing is blunt about this one: in The Weekend Adventurer group discussion, Black Diamond and REI poles come up as the top recommendations, with many members praising their durability and value. The Traverse's aluminum build and REI's famously generous return policy make it a low-risk long-term ownership proposition.

Consolidated from 9 cited sources across 8 outlets

Where the cited sources landed, as we read them

5 positive sources
4 mixed sources

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Pros & cons

✓ Durable aluminum build
✓ Generous REI return policy
✓ Community-endorsed durability and value
✓ Bombproof aluminium construction
✓ House-brand price

✗ Heavier than comparable carbon models
✗ Heavy and bulky when stowed

The sources behind this ranking

We searched the web and YouTube for what has been published about this product, then read the articles, video transcripts and comments we found.

Evidence 5 articles and 4 video reviews

5 positive sources

Better Trail Multiple Authors Sarina · reviewer · Mar 2025

The REI Co-op Traverse is a durable, well-rounded trekking pole that balances comfort, features, and affordability. With sturdy aluminum construction, premium cork grips, and a four-season-ready design, it’s a great choice for backpackers, hikers, and even snowshoers who want a reliable pole for varied conditions. It’s not the lightest or most compact option, making it less ideal for fastpackers, runners, or those with limited storage space. But for those who prioritize durability and comfort over shaving ounces, the Traverse is a top-notch value.

Read C Coastie Outdoors Coastie Outdoors · 4.5K subscribers · Jan 2021

REI Traverse Hiking poles review. The best hiking poles for their value!

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Cap Puckhaber Hiking and Backpacking Blog Cap Puckhaber · reviewer · Aug 2025

Budget-conscious hikers should definitely check out the Traverse 60. REI’s in-house offering punches way above its price tag. It features a well-ventilated back panel, a supportive hip belt, and multiple access points so you don’t have to empty your whole bag to find your rain jacket. I used an earlier model of this pack for years, and it held up beautifully. Plus, REI’s commitment to quality and their great return policy make it a durable, long-term choice you can feel good about. It’s a fantastic value.

Read J Jackal Productions Jackal Productions · 913 subscribers · May 2022

The REI Traverse 32 is the perfect "one-and-done pack", and is a good alternative to the larger REI trail 40. It big enough for an all day hike and is even suitable for a summer overnight, while still not being too bulky for those shorter day hikes. This is the perfect pack for those who don't want to buy different sized packs for different length hikes. This pack competes with more expensive packs like the Osprey Talon or the Osprey Stratos, and is arguably better in many ways.

Watch A Alex On the Trail Alex On the Trail · 76 subscribers · Apr 2025

Anyway, again, it's the REI Traverse modular bear canister under 80 bucks. REI. If you are a budget backpacker and you are looking to buy a bear canister, but you're like me and you're always saying, "Dude, I don't want to pay that kind of money for it." Best option out there for you. Seriously, go get one.

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4 mixed sources

Gearjunkie Article

Even though this pack has all the features we love, like top-loading, bottom-loading, and front-loading access, as well as a large front stuff pocket and trekking pole/ice axe loops, we still consider the Traverse streamlined as it doesn’t have the bulk other similarly decked out packs have. That said, with these features, the Traverse weighs in at 4 pounds 7 ounces and certainly isn’t an ultralight pack. Backpackers who prioritize comfort over weight savings will love this pack, especially for heavier loads on multi-day treks or gear-heavy adventures. We think it’s a great contemporary to REI’s Flash pack line, and better for those who might want to carry a bit more weight or head out on longer adventures with more time in between towns.

Read C COAR OAS COAR OAS · 495 subscribers · Oct 2016

I bought the REI Traverse 48 Pack which is rich with features only to find it doesn't fit! This is a great pack, but only if your larger waisted. It may be manufacturer's have designed packs for the larger people they think we are. Problem is, most avid packers aren't very fat and need true to fit sizing!

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GearLab Ally Arcuri · reviewer · May 2026

The REI Co-Op Traverse 60 is more of an old-school backpack rather than one with modern refinement. It keeps the weight riding tight against your back, which feels stable and secure – one tester described it as a “ hug-like fit. ” It features a number of highly functional pockets and easy access to a water bottle on the trail. Unfortunately, rigid foam padding, limited adjustability, and a plastic-heavy frame make the Traverse 60 less comfortable than its competitors. Still, it's a durable, beginner-friendly pack, and with four size options for both the torso and hipbelt, it's one of the more inclusive-sized packs we've tested.

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Better Trail Multiple Authors John · reviewer · Jul 2025

If you’re weighing the Trailmade 60 against REI’s pricier Traverse 60, the decision comes down to priorities. The Traverse is more feature-rich: it adds a convertible top lid that doubles as a daypack, an included rain cover, and a more advanced fit system with broader size coverage and plusher cushioning throughout. However, those upgrades come with added weight (4 lb. 10 oz.

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