Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Running Poles

Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Running Poles Review

With so many trekking pole choices on the market it’s hard to get just one set of poles to do everything and in my case I used to run 2 sets of poles as a result. Older models of these poles used to have small fixed ‘baskets’ on them which meant that in snow conditions they weren’t so usable however this newer version of these poles can now take snow baskets (available separately) making them more versatile than they have ever been all while still carrying a weight reduction. These poles in their varying forms have continued to be a favourite. My reasons are as follows.

These poles come in 3 fixed lengths: 110 cm, 120 cm and 130 cm which is both a plus and a minus. It’s worth noting that the latest model of this pole has slightly different sizing. On the positive side this single length helps to reduce the overall weight and simplify the parts as there is no need for additional adjustment mechanisms just a simple easy to use locking system. On the downside, this fixed length has a tendency to make the poles a bit long going up hill and a bit to short going downhill so if you use your trekking poles as tent/tarp poles you lose the adjustment ability. I have gotten used to this over the years so it doesn’t bother me but it means that my wife who is about 20cm shorter than me can’t use these poles. If you are someone that uses a tent that uses trekking poles as a pole replacement look at the tent manufacturers recommendations to make sure that these will work for you.

As the name suggest these poles are carbon fibre which makes them extremely lightweight. When I first changed over to carbon fibre poles I must admit I was a bit worried about the robustness. I have had situations in the past where I have slipped in muddy conditions and when I was using my older, metal versions of these poles, and had them bend at what I thought was an impossible angle and still survive. I wasn’t sure if the carbon versions would hold up with my 95+kg frame bearing down on them but they performed admirably even when I did slip. Durability on these poles is excellent but you pay for this in the price.

This set of poles comes with rubberised tips or as well as a carbide tip which I prefer as it holds onto the ground that bit better. I have never ever work out my carbide tips but I am getting close so will need to swap them out at some point

The handle grips on these poles are a EVA foam and unlike some other models they are a reasonable length and feel quite comfortable. I prefer the foam handles to the cork versions – I just find that my hands don’t sweat as much.

Unlike other poles the Distance Carbon Z Trekking Running Poles fold down into three smalls actions which make them extremely small when travelling. The down side is that when the poles are folded down, you need to put them into the side or back pockets of the pack as opposed to using the pole storage system available on some brands of packs.

These trekking poles are very well priced at AUD$319.99RRP with the shorter poles brining even cheaper! I wouldn’t, and don’t use these poles for snow hiking but for everything else they are an excellent choice.

Best Uses

• Excellent all round pole. Great in all circumstances except for heavy snow conditions

Other Versions

Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles com in four main sizes

• 110 cm
• 120 cm
• 130 cm