Aluminum Trekking poles I use & recommend : Black Diamond Alpine FLZ (Current Poles): amzn.to/2GK9Kti ➜ Black Diamond Trail Pro: amzn.to/2GK13PH ➜ Black Diamond Trail Pro Shock (My AT Poles): amzn.to/2poPZza ➜ Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork: amzn.to/2HMONgp ➜ Black Diamond Trail Back: amzn.to/2FX7QEB ➜ Leki Micro Vario Cor-tec: amzn.to/2FUltUU ➜ Leki Corklite; amzn.to/2ppoIxq ➜ CNOC Outdoors Aluminum & Cork: amzn.to/2FOVsdy ➜ Black Diamond Flex Tip parts: amzn.to/2HPcwwB Carbon Fiber Poles I recommend(strong reviews): ➜ Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork: amzn.to/2FWlckn ➜ Leki Micro Vario Carbon: amzn.to/2G5WPUK
I agree aluminum is tougher than carbon, I use carbon for trail running (mountains only) and aluminum for general hiking. Having stated that I would suggest any pole that gets caught in between rocks and subsequently bears you entire body weight as a ever in a fall will be bent/broken regardless....
I use trekking poles for balance. I look for durability and least amount of possible mechanical failures. I value cork handles deals with sweat pretty well. My difficulty is durability. Might end up getting a pair of walking staffs or maybe a hybrid. The ability to adjust like crutches adjust I seem to find interesting. I tend to have issues with clamping mechanism. The trekking poles that break down into 3 pieces don't seem sturdy enough and looks as though more failures can occur.
I’m into my third pair of Black Diamond Alpine Cork poles. I prefer carbon over aluminum for the overall shock absorption feel. Yes, I have broken tips. I always use flick lock style poles, because the length of the pole varies from situation to situation. Also, I like the foam secondary grip, just below the regular cork grip. Very handy for steep slopes.
*For reference, Black Diamond Equipment has stood tall behind their lifetime warranty for me in regards to a jacket failing in the field. They replaced it for me on 2 different occasions with 2 different jackets. 1 was just an issue with me losing weight and they let me exchange the jacket for a smaller size.*
I built two poles for myself with two bamboo canes. They are fairly lightweight, and incredibly strong, even just one on them can support my whole weight. The only disadvantage is that its hard to build a comfortable grip on them because they are easy to brake while manufacturing, as long as you don't crack them while 'refining' bamboo is incredibly strong
Broke a CNOC carbon pole yesterday hiking Cucamonga Peak. I planted a pole that sank into the snow up hill and then my downhill foot slid out when I pulled on the pole it broke right at the silver button. Because the carbon shattered it could not retract into the handle and I could not get the space needed to break apart the sections. The button area is a major weakness in the design I've also had difficulty getting the silver button to pop out so the poles lock. I ordered another pair and will give them one more try. My contribution to breaking my pole in snow was not using the snow basket which would have prevented from sinking so deep. I also broke a black diamond carbon aluminum pole on a talus field where the uphold pole was wedged between rocks when I tumbled, but it held long enough to save me from a very bad fall that would have had injuries. Bottom line I'm tough on poles looking forward to your review of the BD alpines.
Dude, you’re a beast! I can confidently say you’re harder on poles than anyone I’ve ever seen or heard of. If they weren’t so heavy I’d recommend a set of oak poles with brass joints.
Exactly why I have never opted for carbon Fiber poles. Carbon fiber is good stuff, in the right usage. When carbon fiber fails, it is catastrophic failure. I have seen carbon fiber tent poles break and they just splinter apart. That is not good in a trekking pole. A few times, my poles have saved me from injury or worse. I count on them, probably too much, for my safety while hiking. I have put hellish use on my Gossamer Gear LT4's, which I have used for about 8 years. They are still working well, and GG has a lifetime guarantee on the adjustment mechanism, which I had to replace about 2 years ago. They sent me a new set no questions asked. I also use Leki poles. They are not light, but they just work. Hopefully, your video will save someone else the money and annoyance with carbon fiber poles.
I Understand the physics of aluminum vs carbon fiber hollow tubes and agree with this videos viewpoint. But, at the same time Bigfoot is using folding carbon poles which are notorious for snapping at the joints. The "Black Diamond Alpine Cork" greatly reduces this problem because it has 3 tubes sliding inside each other. And if I trapped an aluminum pole between rocks it may not snap but it would probably bend and need replacement. Summary: Aluminum poles are better unless you get the BD Alpine Cork model or some other adjustable sliding carbon design.
I have had good luck with my El Cheapo Wal mart poles too..of course I havent thru-hiked with them but they have saved my butt a few times ( ie Dragon's tooth hike near death experience LOL)
I bought a cheap pair more for tarp tent camping than hiking, but I have hiked with them. They weren’t the highest quality, but they worked. My complaint is that I had to keep checking for parts loosening up.
I used Walmart's cheap set hiking the northern 500 miles of the A.T. I tore my knee up pretty good on the first day and continued on. I beat the heck out of those poles and the only issue was the joint became a little bit loose. At first I was stopping to tighten it every five miles or so. I got tired of stopping all the time so I wrapped some duct tape around the joint and that worked perfectly. From then on as long as I had them taped up I had no problems. Although, I have never used a set of expensive poles so I am interested in what the difference is. Anyone have experience thru-hiking with both cheapos and quality poles?
I can't watch a video about poles without mentioning: Pacerpole The handles are amazingly comfortable bc they're actually shaped for ergonomic use/left and right sides. I have CRPS in 3/4 of my body, including my entire right side. Most poles cause me more pain, these actually help reduce my pain and enable me to hike *FAR* further. Long as these poles are available I won't be using anything else. Last I checked they did offer a couple different types as far as what they're made of. For those of you that take a lot of video, they also have a place for your camera to attach to =} ~I am in NO WAY affiliated with this company, I just absolutely *LOVE* their poles!!!
I have a pair of Black Diamond flip lock style carbon poles with cork grips and they’ve lasted many years without a problem. I don’t think I have flex tips and although mine are dull as can be, they aren’t bent.
Well, gotta agree with you now. I was hiking down a trail, slipped slightly in the mud, jabbed my pole into the dirt and it snapped right in the middle of one of the carbon sections. I didn’t even fall on them or anything. Also, a couple months prior, I broke my first tip. Got replacement tips easily though. I’m guessing I had mine well over 10 years so they owed me nothing but it is scary they can snap so easily, especially given how I use them for safety downhill.
I use an Italian-made Gitzo GM3551 camera monopod converted into 2 carbon fiber walkers (and a leftover head section) .... they're ALOT stronger and thicker (20mm thru 30mm diameters )tubes than any trekking stick I've come across so far
I have a PhD in composite materials engineering, and I exclusively use aluminum trekking poles -- you've made the right call! Notably the BD FLZ! Btw, temperature within the operating range only has minimal effect on the pole strength. The torsional load case in the vicinity of the handle and the through-thickness/radial load components especially are the real culprit. Aluminum is much tougher in this direction, whereas carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates are notoriously weak out-of-plane and tend to delaminate.
All true friend. I'd also suggest however even an aluminum pole will be damaged if it is stuck in rocks and then bears the body weight of a person falling....
@@bedp each to their own. I was once a die hard for aluminum. I now use CF. Haven't had an issue yet, nor do I go anywhere that a single pole breaking would be catastrophic.
I had the end of a pair of Cascade Mountain tech carbon poles shattered, it was a catastrophic failure and it almost a potential life ending fall. I called cascade mountain tech and got aluminium end pieces to fit into my flip lock style pole. Now I think i have the best of both worlds, two sections are carbon fiber (lighter) and aluminium bottom pieces. I have had aluminium bottoms bend may times on the trail but has always been able to bend them back and keep using them.
Temperature does not have a huge affect on the performance of CARBON, however the resin in the pole can be affected by low temperatures. Carbon is so resistant to temperature that it doesn't even melt at atmospheric pressure. Carbon fibre is just way less resistant to stresses that hikers might impart on them.
Ok I’ve only been using pretty generic poles, but have found - twist lock poles break, folding poles break. I have carbon fibre external flip lock poles which are lasting just fine. So, so far as I am concerned, it’s not so much the material, but CHOOSE FLIP LOCK poles if buying inexpensive poles.
I've had my Aluminium Collapsible Poles bought from Decathlon for years .. still going strong. I like the collapsible type as they fold down small and I can adjust them to suit my various tarp setups. Grips .. standard rubber. I don't use them all that much .. the pole loops, my upper palms and wrists doing all of the work.
Ive been using Black Diamond Distance Z for over a year and Im really happy with them. I'd love to try a pair of CNOC poles too. Im very impressed with the Vecto so Im sure their poles are great!
I bought a pair of poles of £30 in Go Outdoors. I used them once in Scotland and one of them broke within 30 minutes. It was the mechanism which tightens them up which just stopped working leaving the pole useless. Am I wrong to think that the answer to my problem would be to find a one piece pole?
I have been using the same pair of Leki aluminum with cork since the mid 90s. Leki has been awesome replacing tips, baskets and adjusters as they wore out. Can't say enough about their customer service and performance.
Aluminium Black Diamond "Approach" poles well over 20 years old. Flick lock so heaps of height adjustment and decent plain webbing wrist straps. No frills. Used them in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Scotland and Peru. Already cleaned and packed alongside walking axe and crampons ready to head to Patagonia and Peru in about 2 weeks for 2 months of trekking and climbing. Got a lot of Black Diamond gear and have never, ever had an issue with durability or customer service.
Been using Coleman trekking poles for years. Aluminum poles with cork handles. Spring loaded n comes with a rubber footie. Not that expensive but they do last.
Great summary. I have had three pairs of carbon poles fail in two years, two Leki and one Ultimate Direction who didn't even answer my email for help. I also lean into the straps on the downhill - which is the whole benefit - and now I'm afraid that one day I will face-plant into rocks if this happens again on an alpine downhill. The second Leki failure was downhill on Kilimanjaro at 15,000 ft and I tumbled and twisted a knee but was otherwise intact. I can imagine hitting the water, boulders, or going off a ledge worst case. Jeez. This should not be a concern! I'm done with carbon. After the second break with Leki they replaced the poles with aluminum cross country ski telescoping poles that weigh 2lb a pair but seem bullet-proof. They telescope to 150cm and I use about 130cm which means nice 10cm metal tube overpass at the two joints. One of the of the Leki design flaws, besides too thin carbon cylinders is a lack of joint material overlap making the joints the snap point each time. I have to compliment Leki on excellent customer service though. Two FoC replacements, the second the aluminum when they realized the carbons were not for me. 10/10 for trying and being earnest! This failure mode is a new thought for me. But now I must focus on it. A catastrophic pole break with a 40lb alpine pack when you are dependent on that pole for balance or stability can cost your life. Thats not an exaggeration.
I have the opposite issue. Carbon fiber has play to it, it can bend a bit without harm, but you bend those aluminum poles a little bit, they bend and deform. I also had a pair of aluminum Leki pole shatter into 3 pieces on me hiking in 10*F weather.
I would love to see how you use your trekking poles. I haven't found a good technique for saving my knees on a descent that works while maintining my stride.
Thanks for the tip! I was considering carbon fiber poles, but like you I am HARD ASS on mine (often throwing my entire body weight on them on descents) and was worried about their durability. I'll stick with aluminum for now.
Last year, i purchased Gossamer Gear LT5 Three Piece Carbon Trekking Poles ($200) for an AT SOBO attempt. On the first day, i had a slip coming down Katahdin and snapped a pole. I had to use a stick to set up my shelter. When I reached out to GG for help, all they could offer was a new set of poles at a %10 discount. Disappointed and moved on to someone else. Communication and customer service mean everything. Stay safe and keep sharing information everybody.
I did some research on hiking poles before I bought mine and found the carbon fibre poles expensive and not necessarily lighter so I went for aluminium and I'm happy with them
update on this - just to make everybody aware of the quality of these poles: Blackdiamond refused my warranty claim saying that these didn't break because of a manufacturing defect. As they broke after 4 months during a normal walk I can only assume that the quality is really poor and that these poles are extremely unsafe. I'd avoid buying those because these poles could really cause serious harm to your health or even death. (They also write this in their T&C and they are very right about it!)
As a backpack backcountry hunter I’m carrying 70-100lb packs and am super hard on my poles. I love my Leki cork lites. 17.5oz for the pair. When I took a digger in a rock field and landed on my right pole I bent the lower leg of the pole pretty badly. The beauty of aluminum over carbon is that I was able to bend the lower almost straight again so I could get back out and still have a useable pole when I needed it most. That said I have heard really good things (from some super hard core backcountry hunters @BrianCall:Gritty channel that are knocking out multiple 50+ mile hunts a year in rugged terrain) about SissyStiks that have carbon uppers and aluminum lowers. 15oz for the pair. Made in USA. Might be the perfect blend.
I broke my black diamond z distance carbon fibre poles the first trip I used them on. Same deal as yourself. I slipped and put too much weight on them. They were replaced, but I’ve now cut the hand loops off them and selective where I’d use them. Since I also use them for my shelter, I’d much rather carry something heavier but more reliable. Dave
Thanks for your video Bigfoot! I actually had a pair of the CNOC carbon cork poles snap in the exact same place on a shake down hike this past weekend. (right at the button that locks the poles in place.) I really wanted to like the poles... but it a surprisingly small amount of pressure to snap them. I was shocked.
I like sticks. Poplar was chosen for shields back in the day because of it's combination of lightness and (relative) strength, and there's lots of poplars around here. :) I just tie some webbing around them in a prussick loop for wrist support.
I use CF poles with no problem. I have had to switch tips after about 700 miles on the ones I currently use, mostly because I have walked part of that on gravel roads and even asphalt. Otherwise, I have never broke a CF walking pole, but I broke one for slalom skiing once. But that was because I fell with the pole under me, so it had nothing to do with the larger stress put on ski poles under normal circumstances. And my walking poles have cork handle and are adjustable with click locks. If I put enough stress on them to break them once in a while, I would swap them out for aluminium, but as it is, I will continue with CF.
How on earth are you using your poles? I'm 5'10 300lbs and thought I was about as hard of a user of poles as any person. I've a few Black Diamond Carbon Cork, a few Black Diamond Terra CF, a few DPS Titanal Carbon and aluminum ski poles (hiking use only) Some Leki Cork ones that were top end maybe 12-15yrs ago (I don't use them anymore they are put away) A few old high end Komperdell - also put away. I haven't had a single pole break the only problems I have are some difficulty with the BD Terra CF push button lock (hard to open/close sometimes) I loose a basket once in a while, a stap may break and I go through tons of rubber tips some disintegrate on me in an afternoon walk. Never bent a or broke any tip, never had damage to any carbon. I ended up here looking for reviews on folding Komperdell carbon I am looking to buy - I don't have any z folds only collapsible. I've been favoring the BD carbon cork when flying to destination and the DPS ski poles when local. I want the Z folds because they collapse shorter fitting into a smaller suitcase.
I made wooden poles for trekking/hiking/whatever for years and for years I have had people tell me I'm out of touch with my heavy wooden poles. Then I point out to them that Carbon fiber is a electrical conductor and next time they get caught out in a thunderstorm they might want to toss the lightning rod away. Also, carbon fiber doesn't handle sunlight well and will break down with exposure to sunlight. They are very strong in one direction and that's compression, but they suck at any lateral, that's sideways, loading and will snap like a twig. A lot of people are pretty much scared to actually do much physically so they need two poles when one is all you really need. Me? I use a wizard's pole. seven foot long, I'm 6'-4" tall so it isn't too long for me. It's 1 1/4" dia and made of hickory. I have a rubber end for the ground and I have reinforced to two ends with Kevlar tubing, in case I need to club something to death or drive off something or someone and i have a stainless steel cap on the top to protect the ends. No need to worry about lighting or anything else. All you really need is one, a third point of balance is all anyone should ever need and if you need more then you might consider doing something different. It's like an old friend really and I use it to flip snakes away, I don't kill snakes just because they are snakes unless I come across an aggressive one that will not go and leave me alone. I always wear snake chaps so I don't have to worry about getting bit.
You are telling others what they do and do not need? You assume everyone does the same activities, in the same terrain, at the same pace you do. I trail run and participate in ultra marathons usually in mountains - a wooden wizard staff is not suitable. Nor is a single pole. For hiking I do however sometimes use a single pole. It depends on the gradient, surface and technicality of the trail. I find it amusing you think you can suggest people should consider a different activity if they like to use two poles. I'll call a spade a spade and state you come across as an arrogant know-it-all. Each to their own eh? :-)
@@titaniumquarrion9838 well next time you get electrocuted trail running in a lightning storm, which will probably happen tomorrow, you'll wish you ran with a seven pound wooden stick. Plus if you ever get stranded, cold and in an area with no wood to burn, you could burn your wooden stick to stay warm for a few hours, buying time to be found by search and rescue should you end up off course. That's why I use 14 lbs of wooden sticks, carbon fiber doesn't burn as cleanly for the environment.
@@Pzifylshi You are well within your rights to use what you like. I took issue with your assessment of others that chose not to. As far as the emergency fire goes while that is certainly an option I prefer to have the correct clothing and emergency shelter items on me than rely on burning a stick. By the way it's been four days since you posted and I have yet to be struck down with lightening. I was in fact once shocked by a near miss strike a couple of years ago - at that time I had no poles whatsoever...
I carry 2 large metal rakes. Haven’t broken one yet and the rakes I use to make insulated leaf barrier nano ultralight sleeping pad with a r value of (insert desired value here). Makes it worth carrying the extra 4,480 grams
I use the the aluminum Fizan Compact 3's right now. Twist lock and everything. Ive never had a single problem in years using aluminum twist lock poles. Ive heard people complain that the twist lock breaks and i dont understand how. Maybe because im a smaller dude...ive never had a problem. Very rarely do i put my full body weight on my poles. Ill always buy the Fizans for the rest of my hiking life.
I bought an incredibly heavy cheap pair when first trying to figure out if poles would help my joint issues. Quickly found out they would help and bought a pair of Black Diamond aluminum z-poles. Wet leaves and inattention had me rolling down a hill once and broke one when I landed on it hard. Still liked them well enough to buy another set. Recently saw a video on a cheap set of carbon fibre telescoping poles from costco and picked them up. I like the cork handles and they're a bit lighter, but noisier. I also prefer the straps on the black diamond. I thought I might like telescoping poles better for things like tarp setups or lifting the side walls on my triplex tent. Still going back and forth with the poles.
I’ve had positive results making ultralight wooden walking sticks out of mockernut hickory, black locust, and American hophorm wrapped tightly with carbon fiber vinyl tape and coated with polyurethane
The best poles I've had are the Wildhorn Outfitters - Cloud Ripper poles (carbon fiber) that were $49. They also have the Taalo that are $39 and aluminum. I like their brand because they have the anti shock handles and work great. That handle feature saves my knees and also less impact on my shoulders. I'm actually going to switch over to the Taalo because I do like aluminum poles better. Less noisy.
I have a pair of leki corklight poles and the design is really solid. That being said, I think the grips are made for someone with average to small sized hands. My hands are about 8 inches from the tip of my middle finger to the crease of my wrist and the circumference of the grips is just a little bit too small. My fingers wrap around the whole thing and end up inside my palm if I grip the poles more tightly which I do occasionally as I alternate between using the straps and not using the straps.
I could be wrong but it always seems like it's a Leki that is breaking in trail videos I have seen - ER, Blackalachian, and many more. I've have problems with Leki in the past myself - and have same carbon fiber issues that you experience. Leki has more parts on the trail because they seem to break more often - their customer service is great and parts are available, but is a serious issue that can cost you time on the trail. Nothing worse than trying to figure out how to pitch a tent that relies on your poles in the rain and dark using fallen tree branches! I am a Black Diamond fan and deal with a small weight cost to have 1 extra tip or accessory to keep me moving.
Were the Leki’s that were breaking down carbon poles? The only pair of Leki’s I have ever had were the Micro Vario and I have been happy with their durability, but they are aluminum. From the poles I’ve seen on the trail, there is a bigger presence of Leki than BD on the trail which is why I thought that reflected what outfitters carried, but could be that Alps. I have had a lot of great experiences with Black Diamond which is why I’m sticking with them.
I had some aluminum poles for the last 25 years that finally broke (the locking mechanism, but pole still ok) - I'm shopping for new poles. I decided against carbon fiber because many people reported they shatter. Like you, I need to be able to put a lot of force on the pole to catch myself off balance. So the pole must be strong enough. I really want my next poles to last for another 25 years, so it seems I'll get another set of aluminum ones.
I looked at trekking poles for some time before upgrading. In the back of my mind was an older video of yours in which you said you were staying with aluminum for reliability. The CNOC carbon fiber was getting such good reviews and were so price friendly, I asked for them for Christmas. fortunately, I guess, they were out of stock so my son bought me the aluminum with the cork handles. lucky huh? I wanted the z style as once a year I go to Colorado for some hiking and they fit in my roller bag. As always thanks for you valuable opinions.
I’ve used Leki’s for 30 years with no problems at all. I think that is 6 pairs of poles over that time period, upgrading each time to better features. Take Care Bigfoot
I am still using the first type of carbon poles Leki sold, purchased, I think, 15 or more years ago. They must have 500-1000 hikes and backpacks in them.
I use Paria poles as well. They are a mix of carbon and aluminum which I like. Unfortunately I just looked and they have the same design flaw where the lock button is in a hole in one of the carbon sections. I haven’t had any problems either but, with hard use or an unfortunate fall, these will break in the same spot. I have the skills and equipment that if they break there clean, I’ll cut that section out and replace it with an aluminum boss.
@@steves3760 I'm sure he's just pointing out that he's using them wrong. Trekking poles are suppose to supplement your legs, not replace or work in sync with your legs. You should not use trekking poles from start to end day to day and if you do, also use them directly down to the ground, you do not use trekking poles for leg drive. That is what physical conditioning is for. They aren't meant to take a grown man's excessive down force to move them up and or forward. Trekking poles are the weight lifting belt of hiking. Proper use, proper form, proper training will prevent damaging them and yourself. Much like when you see people at the gym use weight lifting belts to squat or do dead lifts but they have terrible form or are too weak from other muscles that need to be strengthen to properly do an activity without injury. Learn the basics, put the time into physically conditioning yourself. If you need a weight lifting belt to dead lift 150 and you have no medical reason, you haven't learn the basics or lack the conditioning. If you need poles and won't or don't care about conditioning, buy some heavy but sturdy poles that can take the abuse.
@@namenotfound8747 doesn’t matter. They shouldn’t snap so easily. Carbon fibre is only strong in one direction. Put multidirectional forces on it and it will shatter everytime. Trust i know. Im a cyclist. Road bikes are either carbon fibre or aluminium too. Carbon fibre isnt all that trust me. Its strong relative to its weights. Thats all. It deals with vertical force very well but anything else and its good night nurse
@@toomuch9762 I do TRI myself so I know a thing or two of bikes. When I said buy a heavy but sturdy set of poles I meant buy aluminum because if they do break, you got a chance you can still use them at least long enough to get to a safe place. When CF goes, you got no chance. CF bikes are a different beast and price on a good frame, graoupset, wheel sets tells you what you need to know. I've done upwards of 60 mph/ 97kmh in very steep descents and I have never once felt like I was in danger in a CF bike or aluminum. I have heard of friends breaking frames but usually it was someone using a 10, 15 yr old road bike that had been put through its paces at all price points to be clear, from 300 to 9000 USD but never at critical point like at a steep drop where you can endanger yourself. I have broken carbon Shimano pedals and a few cheap plastic and aluminum pedals. And unfortunately, every time it was at a critical point like down hill gradient of 20 to 25% and I luckily caught myself from losing control. In those cases, only advice you better have lightening like reflexes and luck. But 20 yrs doing it and I only havr a Very few stories to tell about breaking carbon fiber bikes. Maybe I have known of one person breaking CF wheels from Giant. All other stories where of cheap knock offs people got from eBay and such. Now if you are referring to people using hardtail bikes, gravel bikes, fitness bike and cheap mountain bikes to do jumps and drops when they should be using a proper full suspension bike, well it's peoples' fault for using their bikes incorrectly.
I want aluminum telescoping poles that don't slip. At all. I want the aluminum to snap before the clamp would ever slip. I like to put all my weight on them. Advice? Also, a noob question....what are the baskets for? Any hiking I've done I take the baskets off, they would just get in the way, or break. Very rocky and mountainous terrain seems like they're useless. In snow or sand, ok, I get it, but what is their use on dirt and rocks?
Try the PacerPole. A far more ergonomic and rational design. Used and endorsed by many of the most experienced long distance hikers here in the UK. No going back to conventional handles once you've tried them.
I've had the FLZ's for a couple years now and was thinking of upgrading to the carbon fiber poles as I really like carbon fibre (non adjustable) for skiing. Thanks for your heads up. I'll stick with what I got. Good advise on carrying the extra flex tips👍.
I only have one pair of poles so I thought I'd go ahead and order the $25 CNOC's. They are lighter than my current poles and I want to try the Z folding design.
We make titanium trekking poles. Virtually indestructible. Both solid poles and a two piece break down style. Slightly heavier but more useful. Also our snow baskets are titanium and cannot be broken like the brittle plastic snow discs found on common poles. Check em out!
Do you have a license to drill for oil while driving your trekking poles into the ground? Lol. Black diamond replaced a set of Carbon Distance Z poles for me. Linking mechanism retracted into a section on one pole, and the tip fell off the other. The basket, an inch closer to the tip than most other poles, would so frequently catch on rocks and roots--maddening! Loved the light weight of those for 900 miles but gave up the poles for durability issue. Currently, I'm experimenting with a DIY carbon three piece, fixed length pole that weighs about 3.5 oz each. Cheers!
Yes, but if you have a prime membership through amazon it might be about even. They charge for S&H on CNOC and prime memberships don’t. I would look at which one is less when you are checking out. I bought a few poles from CNOC for some gear giveaways and I remember it being cheaper to do it through amazon because of the shipping fees
What about hiking above treeline in the Rockies. Not getting struck by lightening is a pretty damn good reason to use carbon-fiber poles over aluminum!!
Was in the market for new poles this year. Eye balled all the fancy high dollars poles. Resisted and went home to do my research, again, price compare, review reads, etc. All the bad reviews for carbon centered around breaking around the locking button just like yours. Loved the cable through folders but they just felt flexy. Didn’t like the multi lever lock style. Found “My” poles with Kelty(maker of my pack also). Twist lock style. Heavier you bet but I’m not carrying them I’m leaning on them!
Man! You must really put those thru the paces. I'm one of those hikers who have never had to replace the tips on my poles. I have the same CNOC Carbon/Cork poles. Hopefully they hold up for me, So far so good, Thanks for the update on how the CNOC poles performed.
I just treat trekking poles like hiking boots. Every so often you have to buy new ones, so just get the best, most comfortable ones you can afford and don't be surprised when they fall apart. If you're not wearing out your gear you're not using it enough.
Trekking poles don't pass the bombproof test for me. Judging by all the trekking pole detritus on the trail, there are a lot of dissatisfied users out there. I'm using a pair of sycamore sticks. Bombproof. If you lose one over the edge, you get a new one at the next stand of trees. Cost 0 euros/dinars/quid:)
I had one shatter real bad a couple years back... one segment turned completely into spider web strands in one violent explosion... Super cold on steep terrain, wasn't cool.
I've been hiking and backpacking for years and always swore by just a plain old walking stick. Usually one i made (lighter weight the better) but occationally one i had purchased or had made for me. I'm considering going to a single trekking pole instead of a walking stick. Do you have any single trekking poles you recommend? I did come across a columbia trekking pole selfie stick i was considering but for only $25 i wasnt sure it would even be worth it? Do they even sell any other single poles or do they only come in pairs? I do like the idea the columbia holds a camera or cell phone and i do want cork handles aswell..Thanks for your review it did give a few ideas on what not to buy. Hike on!!
I tried to release my tech binding with a carbon pole a few weeks back outside Leadville. Snapped like a twig and I was screwed at 13,000 feet having only one pole to ski with. Carbon is sooo over rated.
Hi Bigfoot, If only you posted this video yesterday. After a lot of research I ordered my first pair trekking poles last night and I went with the Leki Black Series SpeedLock Poles in Carbon Fibre. If I had watched your video first I would have saved myself some money and gone with aluminium instead.
Thanks for the fast reply, I purchased them from LEKI at Open Air in the UK, I have just looked at their return policy and it shouldn't be a problem exchanging them. I live in the south coast England and we barley get temps lower than -5'c so cold isn't a problem. I weigh 19 stone (120.6kg) so I went for the high-end Leki Carbon poles thinking they would be stronger than the aluminium. I am planing on doing the South Downs way in the summer which is a 100 mile trek but then i'm thinking of walking back again and doing it over 2 weeks. I am hoping this would give me an idea of what the AT would be like which I plan on doing in 2021. In your personal opinion do you think the Aluminium would be a better choice for me? Thanks Bigfoot.
For the demanding style of hiking I enjoy, only a six-foot-long dynamite tamping rod of high carbon steel (not fiber!) will do. Sure, it's extra weight and all, but it makes one hell of a lightning rod.
I’ve always found a suitable walking stick on the trail. I’ve been on the fence about purchasing proper poles but honestly the random stick has been working for me.
Nowhere near the same thing. Grab a $25 pair Cascade Mountain Tech off amazon and learn to use them. They will take a lot of strain off your joints going down and help carry the load going up. On the straight and level they make you faster when you use them like cross country ski poles.
It’s a composite cork material that’s made with 80% ground cork, not the same as a fully 100 percent cork handle. It’s a bit smoother and harder than a pure cork handle.
I would agree that if you are on a long trip such as the Appalachian trail or PCT you should have more durable equipment especially if you are many days away from civilization at any given point. That said I first used trekking poles 15 years ago, a pair of leki makalo which served me well. Until I lost them which seems to be the fate of all my poles. I don't understand why you are leaning on your poles so much. I did that for a while and it made my shoulder sockets anfd tendons so sore that I stopped using poles for several years. Now I only use them for backpacking, hikes over 12 miles or 4,000 ft of gain. have had two sets of Paria poles one of which broke at the lower joint which should be where the most stress is on a pole. They cheerfully sent me a new pole which unfortunately was cracked at the same joint from the factory. They sent me another. I decided to reinforced the joint with a piece of 1/2" hard copper water pipe about 1-1'8" long by heating the soft aluminum ferrule that came with the pole and tapping it out with an open end wrench that closely matched the diameter of the pole then slid the new harder and longer copper ferrule on with some super glue. No more breakage!! the other issue with the first versions was that the inner cable would bend and bunch up in the shaft making it difficult to collapse and expand the shaft. I fixed it by buying thicker cable and gluing a short piece of weed whacker fuel line at the joint into which I slid the cable. Bicycle brake cable works great. it is fairly easy to do. That set of poles lasted me for almost three years until they met the same fate as the others which of course was leaving them on the trail.
just a random question, since you have stated you have broken several brands of Carbon Fiber trekking poles. do you think it might be how you actually use the poles? just asking since you also stated you tend to break the tips off vs just wearing them down. Just seems like your self taught style is wrong. as you have also stated you tend to drive the pole so hard that they tend to stick into the ground. This should only happen in very wet/muddy conditions. I know you tube is all opinion based, but as you know your opinion is also taken with a little more weight; then say joe bob from down the street.
I have had many hikers tell me about issues breaking carbon fiber poles, so it’s not just me. But yes, I’m way harder on poles than most hikers. I don’t believe that there is a “Defined” right or wrong way to use poles, but there are ways to use poles that you will get more out of them. I put more force, weight, on my poles than most hikers. I know that I will have issues with my tips breaking every 500 miles or so, and I’m fine with that. I’m fine with that because of the reduction in stress I’m putting on my body. I rarely had any pain in my lower body my entire AT thru hike, which you will find most hikers have many problems with, even ones that use poles.
aren't the carbon fibre & aluminium combined poles the best compromise? aluminium where a bit of flex and shock resistance required, carbon fibre elsewhere.
Aluminum Trekking poles I use & recommend :
Black Diamond Alpine FLZ (Current Poles): amzn.to/2GK9Kti
➜ Black Diamond Trail Pro: amzn.to/2GK13PH
➜ Black Diamond Trail Pro Shock (My AT Poles):
amzn.to/2poPZza
➜ Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork: amzn.to/2HMONgp
➜ Black Diamond Trail Back: amzn.to/2FX7QEB
➜ Leki Micro Vario Cor-tec: amzn.to/2FUltUU
➜ Leki Corklite; amzn.to/2ppoIxq
➜ CNOC Outdoors Aluminum & Cork: amzn.to/2FOVsdy
➜ Black Diamond Flex Tip parts: amzn.to/2HPcwwB
Carbon Fiber Poles I recommend(strong reviews):
➜ Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork: amzn.to/2FWlckn
➜ Leki Micro Vario Carbon: amzn.to/2G5WPUK
Follow Bigfoot a
I agree aluminum is tougher than carbon, I use carbon for trail running (mountains only) and aluminum for general hiking.
Having stated that I would suggest any pole that gets caught in between rocks and subsequently bears you entire body weight as a ever in a fall will be bent/broken regardless....
I use trekking poles for balance. I look for durability and least amount of possible mechanical failures. I value cork handles deals with sweat pretty well. My difficulty is durability. Might end up getting a pair of walking staffs or maybe a hybrid. The ability to adjust like crutches adjust I seem to find interesting. I tend to have issues with clamping mechanism.
The trekking poles that break down into 3 pieces don't seem sturdy enough and looks as though more failures can occur.
I’m into my third pair of Black Diamond Alpine Cork poles.
I prefer carbon over aluminum for the overall shock absorption feel.
Yes, I have broken tips.
I always use flick lock style poles, because the length of the pole varies from situation to situation. Also, I like the foam secondary grip, just below the regular cork grip. Very handy for steep slopes.
*For reference, Black Diamond Equipment has stood tall behind their lifetime warranty for me in regards to a jacket failing in the field. They replaced it for me on 2 different occasions with 2 different jackets. 1 was just an issue with me losing weight and they let me exchange the jacket for a smaller size.*
I built two poles for myself with two bamboo canes. They are fairly lightweight, and incredibly strong, even just one on them can support my whole weight. The only disadvantage is that its hard to build a comfortable grip on them because they are easy to brake while manufacturing, as long as you don't crack them while 'refining' bamboo is incredibly strong
Broke a CNOC carbon pole yesterday hiking Cucamonga Peak. I planted a pole that sank into the snow up hill and then my downhill foot slid out when I pulled on the pole it broke right at the silver button. Because the carbon shattered it could not retract into the handle and I could not get the space needed to break apart the sections. The button area is a major weakness in the design I've also had difficulty getting the silver button to pop out so the poles lock. I ordered another pair and will give them one more try. My contribution to breaking my pole in snow was not using the snow basket which would have prevented from sinking so deep. I also broke a black diamond carbon aluminum pole on a talus field where the uphold pole was wedged between rocks when I tumbled, but it held long enough to save me from a very bad fall that would have had injuries. Bottom line I'm tough on poles looking forward to your review of the BD alpines.
Dude, you’re a beast! I can confidently say you’re harder on poles than anyone I’ve ever seen or heard of. If they weren’t so heavy I’d recommend a set of oak poles with brass joints.
I do terrorize them....
Exactly why I have never opted for carbon Fiber poles. Carbon fiber is good stuff, in the right usage. When carbon fiber fails, it is catastrophic failure. I have seen carbon fiber tent poles break and they just splinter apart. That is not good in a trekking pole. A few times, my poles have saved me from injury or worse. I count on them, probably too much, for my safety while hiking. I have put hellish use on my Gossamer Gear LT4's, which I have used for about 8 years. They are still working well, and GG has a lifetime guarantee on the adjustment mechanism, which I had to replace about 2 years ago. They sent me a new set no questions asked. I also use Leki poles. They are not light, but they just work. Hopefully, your video will save someone else the money and annoyance with carbon fiber poles.
KuntryRD o
I Understand the physics of aluminum vs carbon fiber hollow tubes and agree with this videos viewpoint. But, at the same time Bigfoot is using folding carbon poles which are notorious for snapping at the joints. The "Black Diamond Alpine Cork" greatly reduces this problem because it has 3 tubes sliding inside each other. And if I trapped an aluminum pole between rocks it may not snap but it would probably bend and need replacement.
Summary: Aluminum poles are better unless you get the BD Alpine Cork model or some other adjustable sliding carbon design.
Bought some aluminum poles at Walmart for $15 each. Been to each of the big 5 in Utah and the bottom of the Grand Canyon, with no issues.
I’ve heard a few folks mention durability on the Walmart poles, great to hear
Kirk Callaway agreed. I even tweaked one a little and straightened it. Not a good idea with aluminum but still going.
I have had good luck with my El Cheapo Wal mart poles too..of course I havent thru-hiked with them but they have saved my butt a few times ( ie Dragon's tooth hike near death experience LOL)
I bought a cheap pair more for tarp tent camping than hiking, but I have hiked with them. They weren’t the highest quality, but they worked. My complaint is that I had to keep checking for parts loosening up.
I used Walmart's cheap set hiking the northern 500 miles of the A.T. I tore my knee up pretty good on the first day and continued on. I beat the heck out of those poles and the only issue was the joint became a little bit loose. At first I was stopping to tighten it every five miles or so. I got tired of stopping all the time so I wrapped some duct tape around the joint and that worked perfectly. From then on as long as I had them taped up I had no problems. Although, I have never used a set of expensive poles so I am interested in what the difference is. Anyone have experience thru-hiking with both cheapos and quality poles?
I can't watch a video about poles without mentioning: Pacerpole
The handles are amazingly comfortable bc they're actually shaped for ergonomic use/left and right sides.
I have CRPS in 3/4 of my body, including my entire right side. Most poles cause me more pain, these actually help reduce my pain and enable me to hike *FAR* further.
Long as these poles are available I won't be using anything else.
Last I checked they did offer a couple different types as far as what they're made of.
For those of you that take a lot of video, they also have a place for your camera to attach to =}
~I am in NO WAY affiliated with this company, I just absolutely *LOVE* their poles!!!
I have a pair of Black Diamond flip lock style carbon poles with cork grips and they’ve lasted many years without a problem. I don’t think I have flex tips and although mine are dull as can be, they aren’t bent.
Well, gotta agree with you now. I was hiking down a trail, slipped slightly in the mud, jabbed my pole into the dirt and it snapped right in the middle of one of the carbon sections. I didn’t even fall on them or anything. Also, a couple months prior, I broke my first tip. Got replacement tips easily though. I’m guessing I had mine well over 10 years so they owed me nothing but it is scary they can snap so easily, especially given how I use them for safety downhill.
I use an Italian-made Gitzo GM3551 camera monopod converted into 2 carbon fiber walkers (and a leftover head section) .... they're ALOT stronger and thicker (20mm thru 30mm diameters )tubes than any trekking stick I've come across so far
I have a PhD in composite materials engineering, and I exclusively use aluminum trekking poles -- you've made the right call! Notably the BD FLZ!
Btw, temperature within the operating range only has minimal effect on the pole strength. The torsional load case in the vicinity of the handle and the through-thickness/radial load components especially are the real culprit. Aluminum is much tougher in this direction, whereas carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates are notoriously weak out-of-plane and tend to delaminate.
All true friend. I'd also suggest however even an aluminum pole will be damaged if it is stuck in rocks and then bears the body weight of a person falling....
@@titaniumquarrion9838 Yes but the aluminum pole can be bent back into shape. Damage is much better than catastrophic failure like an exploded shaft.
@@bedp each to their own. I was once a die hard for aluminum. I now use CF. Haven't had an issue yet, nor do I go anywhere that a single pole breaking would be catastrophic.
I had the end of a pair of Cascade Mountain tech carbon poles shattered, it was a catastrophic failure and it almost a potential life ending fall. I called cascade mountain tech and got aluminium end pieces to fit into my flip lock style pole. Now I think i have the best of both worlds, two sections are carbon fiber (lighter) and aluminium bottom pieces. I have had aluminium bottoms bend may times on the trail but has always been able to bend them back and keep using them.
Looking to replac tip on my 1/4 " pole NH
Temperature does not have a huge affect on the performance of CARBON, however the resin in the pole can be affected by low temperatures. Carbon is so resistant to temperature that it doesn't even melt at atmospheric pressure. Carbon fibre is just way less resistant to stresses that hikers might impart on them.
I use old bamboo x-c ski poles. They'll never snap, if they do break, a bit of cord will fix them right up! And LIGHT, too!
Ok I’ve only been using pretty generic poles, but have found - twist lock poles break, folding poles break. I have carbon fibre external flip lock poles which are lasting just fine. So, so far as I am concerned, it’s not so much the material, but CHOOSE FLIP LOCK poles if buying inexpensive poles.
I've had my Aluminium Collapsible Poles bought from Decathlon for years .. still going strong.
I like the collapsible type as they fold down small and I can adjust them to suit my various tarp setups.
Grips .. standard rubber. I don't use them all that much .. the pole loops, my upper palms and wrists doing all of the work.
Ive been using Black Diamond Distance Z for over a year and Im really happy with them. I'd love to try a pair of CNOC poles too. Im very impressed with the Vecto so Im sure their poles are great!
I bought a pair of poles of £30 in Go Outdoors. I used them once in Scotland and one of them broke within 30 minutes. It was the mechanism which tightens them up which just stopped working leaving the pole useless. Am I wrong to think that the answer to my problem would be to find a one piece pole?
I have been using the same pair of Leki aluminum with cork since the mid 90s. Leki has been awesome replacing tips, baskets and adjusters as they wore out. Can't say enough about their customer service and performance.
Aluminium Black Diamond "Approach" poles well over 20 years old. Flick lock so heaps of height adjustment and decent plain webbing wrist straps. No frills. Used them in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Scotland and Peru. Already cleaned and packed alongside walking axe and crampons ready to head to Patagonia and Peru in about 2 weeks for 2 months of trekking and climbing.
Got a lot of Black Diamond gear and have never, ever had an issue with durability or customer service.
I'll take your old ones!!
Sincerely,
A poor college student
Hi Daniel! We sell some pretty affordable Carbon Fiber and Aluminum Pole sets. Check out Hiker Hunger if interested!
Been using Coleman trekking poles for years. Aluminum poles with cork handles. Spring loaded n comes with a rubber footie. Not that expensive but they do last.
Great summary. I have had three pairs of carbon poles fail in two years, two Leki and one Ultimate Direction who didn't even answer my email for help. I also lean into the straps on the downhill - which is the whole benefit - and now I'm afraid that one day I will face-plant into rocks if this happens again on an alpine downhill. The second Leki failure was downhill on Kilimanjaro at 15,000 ft and I tumbled and twisted a knee but was otherwise intact. I can imagine hitting the water, boulders, or going off a ledge worst case. Jeez. This should not be a concern! I'm done with carbon. After the second break with Leki they replaced the poles with aluminum cross country ski telescoping poles that weigh 2lb a pair but seem bullet-proof. They telescope to 150cm and I use about 130cm which means nice 10cm metal tube overpass at the two joints. One of the of the Leki design flaws, besides too thin carbon cylinders is a lack of joint material overlap making the joints the snap point each time. I have to compliment Leki on excellent customer service though. Two FoC replacements, the second the aluminum when they realized the carbons were not for me. 10/10 for trying and being earnest! This failure mode is a new thought for me. But now I must focus on it. A catastrophic pole break with a 40lb alpine pack when you are dependent on that pole for balance or stability can cost your life. Thats not an exaggeration.
I have the opposite issue. Carbon fiber has play to it, it can bend a bit without harm, but you bend those aluminum poles a little bit, they bend and deform. I also had a pair of aluminum Leki pole shatter into 3 pieces on me hiking in 10*F weather.
I would love to see how you use your trekking poles. I haven't found a good technique for saving my knees on a descent that works while maintining my stride.
Lovin my Black diamond trail shock pro’s! Your quality videos are much appreciated! 🙏🏻
Just managed to break my black diamond trail shock pros yesterday. :(
Thanks for the tip! I was considering carbon fiber poles, but like you I am HARD ASS on mine (often throwing my entire body weight on them on descents) and was worried about their durability. I'll stick with aluminum for now.
Last year, i purchased Gossamer Gear LT5 Three Piece Carbon Trekking Poles ($200) for an AT SOBO attempt. On the first day, i had a slip coming down Katahdin and snapped a pole. I had to use a stick to set up my shelter. When I reached out to GG for help, all they could offer was a new set of poles at a %10 discount. Disappointed and moved on to someone else. Communication and customer service mean everything. Stay safe and keep sharing information everybody.
In all fairness, if I wedged a pole I'm guessing I'd do some damage too. Currently using Slav aluminum poles. Just saying...
I did some research on hiking poles before I bought mine and found the carbon fibre poles expensive and not necessarily lighter so I went for aluminium and I'm happy with them
You should have done some more. Research. Necessity has nothing to do with an items weight -- it is what it is.
I guess I am old school. I still use a wooden hiking staff. Have been for years.
Oh god... that's so yesterday ! same here.
The bushcrafter in me likes this comment
im always afraid that carbon fiber pole will break on me while im bending on it, and then i wiill fall on its sharp end and die......
mine broke after 15 times / 4 months and I had an accident because of that. (Black Diamond Alpine FLZ - Z Poles). Totally agree with you!
update on this - just to make everybody aware of the quality of these poles: Blackdiamond refused my warranty claim saying that these didn't break because of a manufacturing defect. As they broke after 4 months during a normal walk I can only assume that the quality is really poor and that these poles are extremely unsafe. I'd avoid buying those because these poles could really cause serious harm to your health or even death. (They also write this in their T&C and they are very right about it!)
As a backpack backcountry hunter I’m carrying 70-100lb packs and am super hard on my poles. I love my Leki cork lites. 17.5oz for the pair. When I took a digger in a rock field and landed on my right pole I bent the lower leg of the pole pretty badly. The beauty of aluminum over carbon is that I was able to bend the lower almost straight again so I could get back out and still have a useable pole when I needed it most. That said I have heard really good things (from some super hard core backcountry hunters @BrianCall:Gritty channel that are knocking out multiple 50+ mile hunts a year in rugged terrain) about SissyStiks that have carbon uppers and aluminum lowers. 15oz for the pair. Made in USA. Might be the perfect blend.
I broke my black diamond z distance carbon fibre poles the first trip I used them on.
Same deal as yourself. I slipped and put too much weight on them.
They were replaced, but I’ve now cut the hand loops off them and selective where I’d use them.
Since I also use them for my shelter, I’d much rather carry something heavier but more reliable.
Dave
Thanks for your video Bigfoot! I actually had a pair of the CNOC carbon cork poles snap in the exact same place on a shake down hike this past weekend. (right at the button that locks the poles in place.) I really wanted to like the poles... but it a surprisingly small amount of pressure to snap them. I was shocked.
I like sticks. Poplar was chosen for shields back in the day because of it's combination of lightness and (relative) strength, and there's lots of poplars around here. :) I just tie some webbing around them in a prussick loop for wrist support.
I use CF poles with no problem.
I have had to switch tips after about 700 miles on the ones I currently use, mostly because I have walked part of that on gravel roads and even asphalt.
Otherwise, I have never broke a CF walking pole, but I broke one for slalom skiing once.
But that was because I fell with the pole under me, so it had nothing to do with the larger stress put on ski poles under normal circumstances.
And my walking poles have cork handle and are adjustable with click locks.
If I put enough stress on them to break them once in a while, I would swap them out for aluminium, but as it is, I will continue with CF.
Great tips man! Fellow Minnesotan using your JMT tips for my own JMT hike this August.
How on earth are you using your poles? I'm 5'10 300lbs and thought I was about as hard of a user of poles as any person. I've a few Black Diamond Carbon Cork, a few Black Diamond Terra CF, a few DPS Titanal Carbon and aluminum ski poles (hiking use only) Some Leki Cork ones that were top end maybe 12-15yrs ago (I don't use them anymore they are put away) A few old high end Komperdell - also put away. I haven't had a single pole break the only problems I have are some difficulty with the BD Terra CF push button lock (hard to open/close sometimes) I loose a basket once in a while, a stap may break and I go through tons of rubber tips some disintegrate on me in an afternoon walk. Never bent a or broke any tip, never had damage to any carbon.
I ended up here looking for reviews on folding Komperdell carbon I am looking to buy - I don't have any z folds only collapsible.
I've been favoring the BD carbon cork when flying to destination and the DPS ski poles when local. I want the Z folds because they collapse shorter fitting into a smaller suitcase.
Your video made me glad to know that the Sierra Mountain gear series 7 trekking poles are made from high grade 7075 aluminum.
I made wooden poles for trekking/hiking/whatever for years and for years I have had people tell me I'm out of touch with my heavy wooden poles. Then I point out to them that Carbon fiber is a electrical conductor and next time they get caught out in a thunderstorm they might want to toss the lightning rod away. Also, carbon fiber doesn't handle sunlight well and will break down with exposure to sunlight. They are very strong in one direction and that's compression, but they suck at any lateral, that's sideways, loading and will snap like a twig.
A lot of people are pretty much scared to actually do much physically so they need two poles when one is all you really need. Me? I use a wizard's pole. seven foot long, I'm 6'-4" tall so it isn't too long for me. It's 1 1/4" dia and made of hickory. I have a rubber end for the ground and I have reinforced to two ends with Kevlar tubing, in case I need to club something to death or drive off something or someone and i have a stainless steel cap on the top to protect the ends. No need to worry about lighting or anything else.
All you really need is one, a third point of balance is all anyone should ever need and if you need more then you might consider doing something different. It's like an old friend really and I use it to flip snakes away, I don't kill snakes just because they are snakes unless I come across an aggressive one that will not go and leave me alone. I always wear snake chaps so I don't have to worry about getting bit.
You are telling others what they do and do not need? You assume everyone does the same activities, in the same terrain, at the same pace you do.
I trail run and participate in ultra marathons usually in mountains - a wooden wizard staff is not suitable. Nor is a single pole. For hiking I do however sometimes use a single pole. It depends on the gradient, surface and technicality of the trail.
I find it amusing you think you can suggest people should consider a different activity if they like to use two poles. I'll call a spade a spade and state you come across as an arrogant know-it-all.
Each to their own eh? :-)
@@titaniumquarrion9838 well next time you get electrocuted trail running in a lightning storm, which will probably happen tomorrow, you'll wish you ran with a seven pound wooden stick. Plus if you ever get stranded, cold and in an area with no wood to burn, you could burn your wooden stick to stay warm for a few hours, buying time to be found by search and rescue should you end up off course. That's why I use 14 lbs of wooden sticks, carbon fiber doesn't burn as cleanly for the environment.
@@Pzifylshi You are well within your rights to use what you like. I took issue with your assessment of others that chose not to. As far as the emergency fire goes while that is certainly an option I prefer to have the correct clothing and emergency shelter items on me than rely on burning a stick. By the way it's been four days since you posted and I have yet to be struck down with lightening. I was in fact once shocked by a near miss strike a couple of years ago - at that time I had no poles whatsoever...
Have your tried Cascade Mountain Sports trekking poles? There's a giveaway going on right now: ua-cam.com/video/KO_yZj0-Jq0/v-deo.html
I carry 2 large metal rakes. Haven’t broken one yet and the rakes I use to make insulated leaf barrier nano ultralight sleeping pad with a r value of (insert desired value here).
Makes it worth carrying the extra 4,480 grams
I use the the aluminum Fizan Compact 3's right now. Twist lock and everything. Ive never had a single problem in years using aluminum twist lock poles. Ive heard people complain that the twist lock breaks and i dont understand how. Maybe because im a smaller dude...ive never had a problem.
Very rarely do i put my full body weight on my poles. Ill always buy the Fizans for the rest of my hiking life.
I bought an incredibly heavy cheap pair when first trying to figure out if poles would help my joint issues. Quickly found out they would help and bought a pair of Black Diamond aluminum z-poles. Wet leaves and inattention had me rolling down a hill once and broke one when I landed on it hard. Still liked them well enough to buy another set. Recently saw a video on a cheap set of carbon fibre telescoping poles from costco and picked them up. I like the cork handles and they're a bit lighter, but noisier. I also prefer the straps on the black diamond. I thought I might like telescoping poles better for things like tarp setups or lifting the side walls on my triplex tent. Still going back and forth with the poles.
I’ve had positive results making ultralight wooden walking sticks out of mockernut hickory, black locust, and American hophorm wrapped tightly with carbon fiber vinyl tape and coated with polyurethane
I recently ordered a pair of Hunger Hiker sticks, the aluminum pair. Great reviews and less spendy.
The best poles I've had are the Wildhorn Outfitters - Cloud Ripper poles (carbon fiber) that were $49. They also have the Taalo that are $39 and aluminum. I like their brand because they have the anti shock handles and work great. That handle feature saves my knees and also less impact on my shoulders. I'm actually going to switch over to the Taalo because I do like aluminum poles better. Less noisy.
I have a pair of leki corklight poles and the design is really solid. That being said, I think the grips are made for someone with average to small sized hands. My hands are about 8 inches from the tip of my middle finger to the crease of my wrist and the circumference of the grips is just a little bit too small. My fingers wrap around the whole thing and end up inside my palm if I grip the poles more tightly which I do occasionally as I alternate between using the straps and not using the straps.
I could be wrong but it always seems like it's a Leki that is breaking in trail videos I have seen - ER, Blackalachian, and many more. I've have problems with Leki in the past myself - and have same carbon fiber issues that you experience. Leki has more parts on the trail because they seem to break more often - their customer service is great and parts are available, but is a serious issue that can cost you time on the trail. Nothing worse than trying to figure out how to pitch a tent that relies on your poles in the rain and dark using fallen tree branches! I am a Black Diamond fan and deal with a small weight cost to have 1 extra tip or accessory to keep me moving.
Were the Leki’s that were breaking down carbon poles? The only pair of Leki’s I have ever had were the Micro Vario and I have been happy with their durability, but they are aluminum. From the poles I’ve seen on the trail, there is a bigger presence of Leki than BD on the trail which is why I thought that reflected what outfitters carried, but could be that Alps.
I have had a lot of great experiences with Black Diamond which is why I’m sticking with them.
I had some aluminum poles for the last 25 years that finally broke (the locking mechanism, but pole still ok) - I'm shopping for new poles. I decided against carbon fiber because many people reported they shatter. Like you, I need to be able to put a lot of force on the pole to catch myself off balance. So the pole must be strong enough.
I really want my next poles to last for another 25 years, so it seems I'll get another set of aluminum ones.
Have your aluminum poles been snapping on you any less?
Love the Minnesota hat! 10,000 lakes friend got my state park plates, great videos.
I looked at trekking poles for some time before upgrading. In the back of my mind was an older video of yours in which you said you were staying with aluminum for reliability. The CNOC carbon fiber was getting such good reviews and were so price friendly, I asked for them for Christmas. fortunately, I guess, they were out of stock so my son bought me the aluminum with the cork handles. lucky huh? I wanted the z style as once a year I go to Colorado for some hiking and they fit in my roller bag. As always thanks for you valuable opinions.
Great vid Bro, thanks for the time and effort in making it. You rule !!! Much love
I’ve used Leki’s for 30 years with no problems at all. I think that is 6 pairs of poles over that time period, upgrading each time to better features. Take Care Bigfoot
Same here... They break like twigs.... You snag them and you're done. Aluminum are a bit heavier but they are stronger.
I am still using the first type of carbon poles Leki sold, purchased, I think, 15 or more years ago. They must have 500-1000 hikes and backpacks in them.
I use Paria carbon fiber poles. Never any issues. Very happy with them only $69.95 on Amazon and they have lifetime replacement
I use Paria poles as well. They are a mix of carbon and aluminum which I like. Unfortunately I just looked and they have the same design flaw where the lock button is in a hole in one of the carbon sections. I haven’t had any problems either but, with hard use or an unfortunate fall, these will break in the same spot. I have the skills and equipment that if they break there clean, I’ll cut that section out and replace it with an aluminum boss.
Sheesh dude, you must be hard on poles then. Plenty of people make entire thru hikes plus with one set of carbon poles.
He said he is awfully hard on them did you miss that?
@@steves3760 I'm sure he's just pointing out that he's using them wrong. Trekking poles are suppose to supplement your legs, not replace or work in sync with your legs. You should not use trekking poles from start to end day to day and if you do, also use them directly down to the ground, you do not use trekking poles for leg drive. That is what physical conditioning is for. They aren't meant to take a grown man's excessive down force to move them up and or forward. Trekking poles are the weight lifting belt of hiking. Proper use, proper form, proper training will prevent damaging them and yourself. Much like when you see people at the gym use weight lifting belts to squat or do dead lifts but they have terrible form or are too weak from other muscles that need to be strengthen to properly do an activity without injury. Learn the basics, put the time into physically conditioning yourself. If you need a weight lifting belt to dead lift 150 and you have no medical reason, you haven't learn the basics or lack the conditioning. If you need poles and won't or don't care about conditioning, buy some heavy but sturdy poles that can take the abuse.
@@namenotfound8747 doesn’t matter. They shouldn’t snap so easily. Carbon fibre is only strong in one direction. Put multidirectional forces on it and it will shatter everytime. Trust i know. Im a cyclist. Road bikes are either carbon fibre or aluminium too. Carbon fibre isnt all that trust me. Its strong relative to its weights. Thats all. It deals with vertical force very well but anything else and its good night nurse
@@toomuch9762 I do TRI myself so I know a thing or two of bikes. When I said buy a heavy but sturdy set of poles I meant buy aluminum because if they do break, you got a chance you can still use them at least long enough to get to a safe place. When CF goes, you got no chance. CF bikes are a different beast and price on a good frame, graoupset, wheel sets tells you what you need to know. I've done upwards of 60 mph/ 97kmh in very steep descents and I have never once felt like I was in danger in a CF bike or aluminum. I have heard of friends breaking frames but usually it was someone using a 10, 15 yr old road bike that had been put through its paces at all price points to be clear, from 300 to 9000 USD but never at critical point like at a steep drop where you can endanger yourself.
I have broken carbon Shimano pedals and a few cheap plastic and aluminum pedals. And unfortunately, every time it was at a critical point like down hill gradient of 20 to 25% and I luckily caught myself from losing control. In those cases, only advice you better have lightening like reflexes and luck. But 20 yrs doing it and I only havr a Very few stories to tell about breaking carbon fiber bikes. Maybe I have known of one person breaking CF wheels from Giant. All other stories where of cheap knock offs people got from eBay and such.
Now if you are referring to people using hardtail bikes, gravel bikes, fitness bike and cheap mountain bikes to do jumps and drops when they should be using a proper full suspension bike, well it's peoples' fault for using their bikes incorrectly.
@@namenotfound8747 either way carbon fibre is only strong vertically it doesn’t matter if its old or new.
I want aluminum telescoping poles that don't slip. At all. I want the aluminum to snap before the clamp would ever slip. I like to put all my weight on them. Advice? Also, a noob question....what are the baskets for? Any hiking I've done I take the baskets off, they would just get in the way, or break. Very rocky and mountainous terrain seems like they're useless. In snow or sand, ok, I get it, but what is their use on dirt and rocks?
0:46 Excellent....I will tell my hiking friends to not invest in these products...
Thank you for the review. cheers
Rock field are tricky. The break ank!d's and legs too
Try the PacerPole. A far more ergonomic and rational design. Used and endorsed by many of the most experienced long distance hikers here in the UK. No going back to conventional handles once you've tried them.
I've had the FLZ's for a couple years now and was thinking of upgrading to the carbon fiber poles as I really like carbon fibre (non adjustable) for skiing. Thanks for your heads up. I'll stick with what I got. Good advise on carrying the extra flex tips👍.
I use the leki black series FX carbon withover a 1000 miles of use... Never had an issue and I have used and abused them!
I only have one pair of poles so I thought I'd go ahead and order the $25 CNOC's. They are lighter than my current poles and I want to try the Z folding design.
We make titanium trekking poles. Virtually indestructible. Both solid poles and a two piece break down style. Slightly heavier but more useful. Also our snow baskets are titanium and cannot be broken like the brittle plastic snow discs found on common poles. Check em out!
I just checked out your website. Very interesting.
That's why i bought the top of the line aluminium poles from Komperdell
Do you have a license to drill for oil while driving your trekking poles into the ground? Lol.
Black diamond replaced a set of Carbon Distance Z poles for me. Linking mechanism retracted into a section on one pole, and the tip fell off the other. The basket, an inch closer to the tip than most other poles, would so frequently catch on rocks and roots--maddening! Loved the light weight of those for 900 miles but gave up the poles for durability issue. Currently, I'm experimenting with a DIY carbon three piece, fixed length pole that weighs about 3.5 oz each.
Cheers!
LOL!!!!!
Thanks for the laugh. Cheers!
I see that on the CNOC website that if you sign up for emails, you get 10% off your first order.
Yes, but if you have a prime membership through amazon it might be about even. They charge for S&H on CNOC and prime memberships don’t. I would look at which one is less when you are checking out. I bought a few poles from CNOC for some gear giveaways and I remember it being cheaper to do it through amazon because of the shipping fees
What about hiking above treeline in the Rockies. Not getting struck by lightening is a pretty damn good reason to use carbon-fiber poles over aluminum!!
Was in the market for new poles this year. Eye balled all the fancy high dollars poles. Resisted and went home to do my research, again, price compare, review reads, etc. All the bad reviews for carbon centered around breaking around the locking button just like yours. Loved the cable through folders but they just felt flexy. Didn’t like the multi lever lock style. Found “My” poles with Kelty(maker of my pack also). Twist lock style. Heavier you bet but I’m not carrying them I’m leaning on them!
Man! You must really put those thru the paces. I'm one of those hikers who have never had to replace the tips on my poles. I have the same CNOC Carbon/Cork poles. Hopefully they hold up for me, So far so good, Thanks for the update on how the CNOC poles performed.
I just treat trekking poles like hiking boots. Every so often you have to buy new ones, so just get the best, most comfortable ones you can afford and don't be surprised when they fall apart. If you're not wearing out your gear you're not using it enough.
Trekking poles don't pass the bombproof test for me. Judging by all the trekking pole detritus on the trail, there are a lot of dissatisfied users out there. I'm using a pair of sycamore sticks. Bombproof. If you lose one over the edge, you get a new one at the next stand of trees. Cost 0 euros/dinars/quid:)
I had one shatter real bad a couple years back... one segment turned completely into spider web strands in one violent explosion... Super cold on steep terrain, wasn't cool.
Dang, the discounted poles are already sold out!
I've been hiking and backpacking for years and always swore by just a plain old walking stick. Usually one i made (lighter weight the better) but occationally one i had purchased or had made for me. I'm considering going to a single trekking pole instead of a walking stick. Do you have any single trekking poles you recommend? I did come across a columbia trekking pole selfie stick i was considering but for only $25 i wasnt sure it would even be worth it? Do they even sell any other single poles or do they only come in pairs? I do like the idea the columbia holds a camera or cell phone and i do want cork handles aswell..Thanks for your review it did give a few ideas on what not to buy. Hike on!!
It's not about the tool, rather its usage. When one abuses their equipment, it breaks. Duh.
Question for you: How do you know what size poles to order? Thanks in advance. BG
B. Gray as a rule of thumb (your height) x 0.68
fizan compact 3 aluminum about 5.5 oz each
Pvk Jhilk This is what i use. Never had a problem. If something does happen to mine id rebuy them in a heartbeat.
I tried to release my tech binding with a carbon pole a few weeks back outside Leadville. Snapped like a twig and I was screwed at 13,000 feet having only one pole to ski with. Carbon is sooo over rated.
Very helpful, thank you!
Hi Bigfoot, If only you posted this video yesterday.
After a lot of research I ordered my first pair trekking poles last night and I went with the Leki Black Series SpeedLock Poles in Carbon Fibre.
If I had watched your video first I would have saved myself some money and gone with aluminium instead.
Most place will allow you to cancel the order or return it before you open it. Leki would probably do that if you just call them
Thanks for the fast reply, I purchased them from LEKI at Open Air in the UK, I have just looked at their return policy and it shouldn't be a problem exchanging them.
I live in the south coast England and we barley get temps lower than -5'c so cold isn't a problem.
I weigh 19 stone (120.6kg) so I went for the high-end Leki Carbon poles thinking they would be stronger than the aluminium.
I am planing on doing the South Downs way in the summer which is a 100 mile trek but then i'm thinking of walking back again and doing it over 2 weeks. I am hoping this would give me an idea of what the AT would be like which I plan on doing in 2021.
In your personal opinion do you think the Aluminium would be a better choice for me?
Thanks Bigfoot.
Good heads up. Thanks dude. 👍
What is your view of the rubber tip protectors for "improved" surfaces and LNT grounds? Ever used them for rocky trails or in PA?
they always fall off
Not all aluminum alloys are same. Black Diamond uses a softer aluminum that bends easier than, say Leki or Komperdell.
Why do you prefer a fold over collapsible lock? Didn’t see you mention here
For the demanding style of hiking I enjoy, only a six-foot-long dynamite tamping rod of high carbon steel (not fiber!) will do. Sure, it's extra weight and all, but it makes one hell of a lightning rod.
I’ve always found a suitable walking stick on the trail. I’ve been on the fence about purchasing proper poles but honestly the random stick has been working for me.
Nowhere near the same thing. Grab a $25 pair Cascade Mountain Tech off amazon and learn to use them. They will take a lot of strain off your joints going down and help carry the load going up. On the straight and level they make you faster when you use them like cross country ski poles.
I'm a bit confused as the Leki's look like they have cork handles also. Is it not real cork? Or are you just looking for a less defined shape?
It’s a composite cork material that’s made with 80% ground cork, not the same as a fully 100 percent cork handle. It’s a bit smoother and harder than a pure cork handle.
I would agree that if you are on a long trip such as the Appalachian trail or PCT you should have more durable equipment especially if you are many days away from civilization at any given point. That said I first used trekking poles 15 years ago, a pair of leki makalo which served me well. Until I lost them which seems to be the fate of all my poles. I don't understand why you are leaning on your poles so much. I did that for a while and it made my shoulder sockets anfd tendons so sore that I stopped using poles for several years. Now I only use them for backpacking, hikes over 12 miles or 4,000 ft of gain. have had two sets of Paria poles one of which broke at the lower joint which should be where the most stress is on a pole. They cheerfully sent me a new pole which unfortunately was cracked at the same joint from the factory. They sent me another. I decided to reinforced the joint with a piece of 1/2" hard copper water pipe about 1-1'8" long by heating the soft aluminum ferrule that came with the pole and tapping it out with an open end wrench that closely matched the diameter of the pole then slid the new harder and longer copper ferrule on with some super glue. No more breakage!! the other issue with the first versions was that the inner cable would bend and bunch up in the shaft making it difficult to collapse and expand the shaft. I fixed it by buying thicker cable and gluing a short piece of weed whacker fuel line at the joint into which I slid the cable. Bicycle brake cable works great. it is fairly easy to do. That set of poles lasted me for almost three years until they met the same fate as the others which of course was leaving them on the trail.
just a random question, since you have stated you have broken several brands of Carbon Fiber trekking poles. do you think it might be how you actually use the poles? just asking since you also stated you tend to break the tips off vs just wearing them down. Just seems like your self taught style is wrong. as you have also stated you tend to drive the pole so hard that they tend to stick into the ground. This should only happen in very wet/muddy conditions. I know you tube is all opinion based, but as you know your opinion is also taken with a little more weight; then say joe bob from down the street.
I have had many hikers tell me about issues breaking carbon fiber poles, so it’s not just me. But yes, I’m way harder on poles than most hikers. I don’t believe that there is a “Defined” right or wrong way to use poles, but there are ways to use poles that you will get more out of them. I put more force, weight, on my poles than most hikers. I know that I will have issues with my tips breaking every 500 miles or so, and I’m fine with that. I’m fine with that because of the reduction in stress I’m putting on my body. I rarely had any pain in my lower body my entire AT thru hike, which you will find most hikers have many problems with, even ones that use poles.
I wish I could afford the LEKI Micro Vario COR-TEC Trekking Poles.
Can't afford to replace my one bent, bent in half walmart poles.
How about Titanium poles ???
Thank you for a good talk. You've convinced me that carbon fiber isn't for me since I'll be out in the cold this year.
Off to REI...
aren't the carbon fibre & aluminium combined poles the best compromise? aluminium where a bit of flex and shock resistance required, carbon fibre elsewhere.