Carbon fiber poles are also strong and even lighter than aluminum, but pricier. Traditional wooden hiking staffs do a stand-up job for a good price, but they require maintenance and don't shrink down for easy packing. Your choices are basically fourfold. Cork grips are my favorites because they mold nicely to your hand, stay cool, and don't get slick with sweat or rain. Foam and rubber also work well, but plastic handles are hard and slippery.
Many poles come with additional features that are worth checking out.
A camera mount lets you convert a pole into a tripod or camera brace. Avalanche probe conversion lets you extend the pole into a long wand for searching out buried hikers. Many hikers like poles with shock absorbers inside to dampen the impact on arms and shoulders. This is simply a grip that's canted forward for a more natural and comfortable hand position. If this sounds like a lot, don't fear.