Your little comments about the Leki locking mechanism for the straps, and the utility of the foam grips below the handle were excellent points. Thanks...
Started with Leki telescopic Poles and hurt myself really badly when the locking mechanism decided to give in on a steep slope. Later my wife’s pole did exactly the same thing she was very lucky . I changed to Black Diamond carbon flick locking pole with cork handles . They have been amazing many days in Pyrenees and all over Nepal . My feeling is from a safety point of view I don’t trust telescopic Poles especially if they get wet . I would go for flick locking Poles everytime
@@ChaseMountains Interesting point about telescopic poles getting wet - I didn't realize that. Are there times when you would advise people not to use poles?
My Leki telescopic poles failed in the snow today which led me to watching this review - interesting! I think the aluminium flick lock ones might be the next buy
My preferences: Aluminium 7075. Carbon is brittle. Cork grips. My poles have that lower foam grip but I hardly use it. Lever locks. Adjustable - I use a trekking-pole supported tent and the right length for the tent is the wrong length for me. No squishy springs/shock absorbers. Just don't care for them - I like to know that I have a solid pole placement. I hike in some pretty sketchy terrain. That glove gimmick doesn't appeal. but I'm not a runner. Where I am, Komperdell (or various house brands that buy from Komperdell) runs a little cheaper than Leki or Black Diamond and I've had two pair that have given good service.
Thanks for the information. I’m about to attempt a 100 mile trail trek as a fundraiser January 1st. I’ve never used poles running before. This was helpful.
Intresting. My trusty old Black Diamond Distance FL poles are of the collapsible design, height adjustable, aluminium, take a basket, have the longer top section & not to porky. Haven't let me down yet.
Great stuff! Just one thing: I used my foldable 3-section poles on my entire pct hike (the bd carbon flz ones), and I did use them as tent poles the whole time. An adjustable pole would have allowed for a higher pitch and a bit more space in the tent, but I valued their insane weight over that advantage. Bigger guys probably weight thiss differently, but for me, this was a really good compromise. I lost them the day after I finished, and I ended up getting them again for my next trip.
I just bought my second pair of Black Diamond 'Trail Back' poles--I lost one of the original set. They are a no frills flik lock design, and work well. Cheapest poles in the BD lineup, but are very durable, and also work very well in supporting many configurations of a tarp shelter. Also, the newer ones have an improved extended hand grip. I suspect many of the features found in poles that cost twice as much are unnecessary gimmicks.
I purchased Leki poles about 5 years ago, after trying other brands, and for me they are the canards cojones. I live in the Perth area of Western Australia, which has a Mediterranean climate. Cork handles are so much more comfortable on both warm and cool days. They are the favourite part of my kit. Thanks for the channel mate. You're doing a great job.
Another benefit of the foldeable poles is that they are much easier to fit inside your rucksack (or fit in a smaller rucksack). That's pretty useful if you're scrambling or climbing up a crag as there's nothing to get caught on the rock.
I like my poles to have extended handles. When the terrain is super verifiable like the trails i tend to hike are, constantly adjusting the length of polls is just a pain in the ass, extended handles let you just slip you hand out of the straps and choke down in one motion. Got a couple sets of Kamperdales and like them a lot. The telescopic allow are bomb proof. I’ve actually had more trouble with the flick lock ski poles. Go figure!
Hey brother, I really, really appreciate your channel and have benefited from it greatly. I have also purchased a course of yours, so know I come with you a comment to only help you improve. A suggestion I have is to work on your voice. You can have a strong, gutteral voice which is so "gravely" and low-toned that it can become a slightly unwelcoming sound to listen to over a long video. It sometimes sounds like lazy pronunciation and articulation, as though you are tired. Just like a singer or public speaker, I think you can improve this aspect of your videos. Again, you have a gift and talent and are a really valuable guide and teacher, so know that this is minor feedback in an overall wonderful channel and production.
You have a point there actually. There’s quite a bit of vocal fry. Chase should maybe embrace his inner mountain yodler and explore his true vocal range! “The hills are alive…”
Black Dimond has a few models of three pole style with interchangeable baskets, or you can get some baskets for a few models the parts are meant to be used on models that are replaceable. At least Black Dimond used to have some like this, not sure they do now.
I've been using poles for years backcountry bow hunting and rucking, I really don't go off the road without them, I have a set of Leki's and a set of inexpensive carbon Cascades off amazon both are very adjustable and have the lock, I prefer the cheaper ones, they've lasted over 5 years, have the added lower grip and are just more comfortable. I'm doing a mountain endurance run and will be testing both to see which one might work better. Thanks for the video
Thanks Chase. I will share this with our group. I agree with the problems with carbon fibre. I have seen these shatter on the trail. I would go with the flick lock poles. I have used telescopic poles before and I always worry about them failing. I need people on our trek to have really reliable poles> Once you get started, you can't pick up a new pair!
The loop straps seem to stress the joint at the base of my thumb when applying force for any length of time. Trying to solve this, I bought Leiki nordic walking poles with with the type of strap shown around 3:18. I found them to be much more comfortable, but one of my concerns is that my hands feel trapped into landing with the handle under my palm if or when a fall triggers the proactive extension reflex. This can result in an injury known as "skier's thumb," whereas the loop straps held in your recommended manner can be released to reduce any chance of landing on the handle.
two main types of material for folding or telescopic, one is Carbon fiber and the other Aluminum. There is also a wood type that does not fold but are more for day hikers and those who need something for daily use but are not wanting a true cane. Was at one time a folding fiberglass pole but these were only okay and needed replacing after so many miles, sooner than Aluminum or Carbon Fiber so they got stopped in the 1990's. I go for this one model from Black Diamond that is the Distance Trek but the Aluminum model (not sure it is still made or even a similar mode) since the Carbon fiber Z adjustable at the time in 2015 would snap in half for trail running but have since beefed it up for trail runners. I wanted an adjustable model for hiking hills and for other needs so I could keep that 90% elbow in the ground position when pole is flat. Also, there are some that with parts can handle snow/mud very well, my dad has some, but the basket part never stayed well in the three section Black Diamond aluminum frame model I got him, for Christmas, so he removed the part and has a gap in a spot, fine for him as it never really mad enough difference for him since the part was why that model got changed up for snowshoe/some more rugged cross country/mountain ski people due to having issues and why that model was on deep discount from initial price online. Main reason I got these for my dad is they use cork unlike the type of foam with my model that has the odd deep ridges that older Black Diamond poles are known for.
I have the aluminum Leki Micro Vario TA that is 3 section foldable and also has a a clamp lock mechanism to adjust height. I notice it has pretty evident vibration-not much when I apply a downward force, but when I swing them and plant them in front of me, where force is not longitudinal. Is this probably due to material (aluminum) or construction (3 section foldable)? Nobody’s seems to complain about the Leki Micro Vario Carbon, which has the same construction. Have you got any experience with that or did you heard something on it? I can’t decide between that and the Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork, which has a clamp lock style, but obviously its packed size is much bigger.
carbon fiber is really strong when bending or flexing - BUT where they are not as "strong" is when they are hit with sharp objects or cuts. If you where to smash them on a rock they are much more likely to break than aluminium
For those of us who have to take a flight to get to the trailhead, the collapsible poles fit in a suitcase. The others must be carried on a backpack onto the plane and are often stopped at airport security and have even been confiscated.
I bought the BD carbon Z poles a few weeks ago, amazingly light but good point if using for tent setup, something I havnt even had a chance to try yet. Hope it goes alright :(
The straps give my hands blisters so I’m often just ditching the strap and gripping the pole, which adds tension to my arms…any tips on what type of fabric to look for in a strap? Or is it to do with how I’m using the straps? I do put my hand through the correct way.
Yep! When I bought my micro flash carbons I bought some light weight gloves too, not cheep but great for chilly winter evenings. However the supplied mesh gloves are big enough to take gloved hands so when the tempuature dips to freezing I use normal gloves with the mesh glove
@@ChaseMountains Thanks! Still have to figure out how to carry them when not using them. I would like to carry poles vertically, something like Salomon custom quiver but longer.
That's What I have Black Diamond. Carbon Fiber Cork handle. I got them at REI. I take them with me just incase I get fatigued. I have Parkinson's Disease. I haven't used them. My friends who hike who are in their mid 50s like I am most use them.
I’m sorry, Chase, but I don’t think your disclaimer makes sense. You say that Leki is in no way sponsoring this video… but they gave you a pair of poles. That’s great for you, but this is the line you cross to being an influencer. Not saying you’ve sold your soul, but be honest, man.
I know this is an old comment, but just an FYI to maybe people watching in the future or for reference on other videos too.. being sponsored and being gifted a product are two different things. He didn’t lie about anything and he WAS being honest as he even disclosed they kindly gave him a pair after demonstrating the usage 😅 it helps to understand the terms first before making any assumptions. Cheers lol
Trekking poles, to me, are yet another ascribed contrivance unneeded by any healthy hiker short of those with balance problems or bad knees. Human beings have walked in mountainous terrain for eons without them, many carrying heavy weights and awkward loads. Without these pricey sticks, you develop your lower leg muscles and ankles in a normal way and enhance your built-in balance systems. Your arms can act as part of your natural gait, and your hands are liberated for carrying things, grabbing branches, swatting flies, and so on. We don’t need help walking. All the tools are built in.
Anyone who has done thru hikes with and without poles wont agree with your assessment. They 100% aid in making the hike easier, especially downhill as they reduce a lot of strain on tired ankles and knees. Bodies are not reactive and break down from wear and tear regardless of how fit you think you are. Anyone who subscribes to the attitude of "just push yourself harder" is a walking injury waiting to happen. More so when you add pack weight. You seem to be turning your nose up at the price and flare more than the function. Humans have been using walking sticks or staffs since they first stood on two legs.
It’s a valid point you make. Walking with poles is fine, but don’t neglect all important ankle strength and balance work because you’ve got the added support to fall back on. I personally have found I generally only want to use poles on very steep climbs. On steep scrambly descents, I’d much rather have my hands free to guide me down.
I certainly used to think this and I assumed they were for older people or those with joint problems. But I saw others, including young people, use them and could understand where they could be useful. About six months ago (Boxing Day sales) I bought a pair after getting some recommendations and advice. They were cumbersome to get used to, particularly when scrambling or adjusting height to terrain but now I find I’m a bit less tired after a hike or consecutive day hikes. Also, I was worried that my leg and core muscles might get lazy but I have not found this to be the case. Though of course you do have to watch your posture. Each to their own though ☺️
Human beings have also used walking sticks for eons. The modern trekking pole is merely the modern version of a tool that's been around since the dawn of man.
Your little comments about the Leki locking mechanism for the straps, and the utility of the foam grips below the handle were excellent points. Thanks...
Started with Leki telescopic Poles and hurt myself really badly when the locking mechanism decided to give in on a steep slope. Later my wife’s pole did exactly the same thing she was very lucky . I changed to Black Diamond carbon flick locking pole with cork handles . They have been amazing many days in Pyrenees and all over Nepal . My feeling is from a safety point of view I don’t trust telescopic Poles especially if they get wet . I would go for flick locking Poles everytime
Yep, 100% you need to be very very careful not to get the inside of telescopic poles wet. Maybe I should make a trekking pole care video.
@@ChaseMountains Interesting point about telescopic poles getting wet - I didn't realize that. Are there times when you would advise people not to use poles?
Flick lock poles any time over twist lock, a no brainer I would say, tx for the video.
Mountain King 3 part poles; Sky Runner (carbon) or Trail Blaze (alu). Really simple design. Great product. Light, reliable... Love mine.
My Leki telescopic poles failed in the snow today which led me to watching this review - interesting! I think the aluminium flick lock ones might be the next buy
My preferences:
Aluminium 7075. Carbon is brittle.
Cork grips. My poles have that lower foam grip but I hardly use it.
Lever locks. Adjustable - I use a trekking-pole supported tent and the right length for the tent is the wrong length for me.
No squishy springs/shock absorbers. Just don't care for them - I like to know that I have a solid pole placement. I hike in some pretty sketchy terrain.
That glove gimmick doesn't appeal. but I'm not a runner.
Where I am, Komperdell (or various house brands that buy from Komperdell) runs a little cheaper than Leki or Black Diamond and I've had two pair that have given good service.
Thanks for the information. I’m about to attempt a 100 mile trail trek as a fundraiser January 1st. I’ve never used poles running before. This was helpful.
Intresting. My trusty old Black Diamond Distance FL poles are of the collapsible design, height adjustable, aluminium, take a basket, have the longer top section & not to porky. Haven't let me down yet.
Great video mate. Really informative and helped answer my questions. Now I've got some idea about what I'm looking for 👌
Excellent review of the Leki pole.....especially the advantages of the latch lock vs. collapsible.
Great stuff! Just one thing: I used my foldable 3-section poles on my entire pct hike (the bd carbon flz ones), and I did use them as tent poles the whole time. An adjustable pole would have allowed for a higher pitch and a bit more space in the tent, but I valued their insane weight over that advantage. Bigger guys probably weight thiss differently, but for me, this was a really good compromise. I lost them the day after I finished, and I ended up getting them again for my next trip.
Hey, was looking at getting these poles, did they held up well or did you run in any problems with them?
I just bought my second pair of Black Diamond 'Trail Back' poles--I lost one of the original set. They are a no frills flik lock design, and work well. Cheapest poles in the BD lineup, but are very durable, and also work very well in supporting many configurations of a tarp shelter. Also, the newer ones have an improved extended hand grip. I suspect many of the features found in poles that cost twice as much are unnecessary gimmicks.
I purchased Leki poles about 5 years ago, after trying other brands, and for me they are the canards cojones. I live in the Perth area of Western Australia, which has a Mediterranean climate. Cork handles are so much more comfortable on both warm and cool days. They are the favourite part of my kit. Thanks for the channel mate. You're doing a great job.
Another benefit of the foldeable poles is that they are much easier to fit inside your rucksack (or fit in a smaller rucksack). That's pretty useful if you're scrambling or climbing up a crag as there's nothing to get caught on the rock.
I like my poles to have extended handles. When the terrain is super verifiable like the trails i tend to hike are, constantly adjusting the length of polls is just a pain in the ass, extended handles let you just slip you hand out of the straps and choke down in one motion.
Got a couple sets of Kamperdales and like them a lot. The telescopic allow are bomb proof. I’ve actually had more trouble with the flick lock ski poles. Go figure!
I have Leki flick lock with cork handles - LOVE them!
Thanks Chase. I swear by Hiker Hunger carbon fiber poles. Super light, well made. Never failed me.
Hey brother, I really, really appreciate your channel and have benefited from it greatly. I have also purchased a course of yours, so know I come with you a comment to only help you improve.
A suggestion I have is to work on your voice. You can have a strong, gutteral voice which is so "gravely" and low-toned that it can become a slightly unwelcoming sound to listen to over a long video. It sometimes sounds like lazy pronunciation and articulation, as though you are tired. Just like a singer or public speaker, I think you can improve this aspect of your videos.
Again, you have a gift and talent and are a really valuable guide and teacher, so know that this is minor feedback in an overall wonderful channel and production.
You have a point there actually. There’s quite a bit of vocal fry. Chase should maybe embrace his inner mountain yodler and explore his true vocal range! “The hills are alive…”
Pacer Poles are best I have used.
Never created that video for the best affordable trekking poles? Couldn’t find it.
Black Dimond has a few models of three pole style with interchangeable baskets, or you can get some baskets for a few models the parts are meant to be used on models that are replaceable. At least Black Dimond used to have some like this, not sure they do now.
Z style are fantastic for the size and easy to mount them
Great info! I dont think I'd like those gloves on the trifold Lekis, but it's an interesting concept. :)
I've been using poles for years backcountry bow hunting and rucking, I really don't go off the road without them, I have a set of Leki's and a set of inexpensive carbon Cascades off amazon both are very adjustable and have the lock, I prefer the cheaper ones, they've lasted over 5 years, have the added lower grip and are just more comfortable. I'm doing a mountain endurance run and will be testing both to see which one might work better. Thanks for the video
Great vid! My favourite poles are MSR.🤷♂️😬🤘😎
Which backpack brand and shoes you suggest that are light weight and comfortable with cushioning ?
Thanks I am hiking the Grand Canyon next year and I need to get some soon!
Thank you! Helpful videos!!
Thanks Chase. I will share this with our group. I agree with the problems with carbon fibre. I have seen these shatter on the trail. I would go with the flick lock poles. I have used telescopic poles before and I always worry about them failing. I need people on our trek to have really reliable poles> Once you get started, you can't pick up a new pair!
Yeah in that case flick lock is definitely the best option I think!
@@ChaseMountains Thanks, that is what I will tell our group.
Hi chase, great videos only just started watching your vids. What are the make of the trekking poles you mention at the end of this video please?
At 12.00 minutes, would you mind telling me, what air mattress you have there? thank you.
Great explanation! I’m going to pick up some 3 section poles today lol
The loop straps seem to stress the joint at the base of my thumb when applying force for any length of time. Trying to solve this, I bought Leiki nordic walking poles with with the type of strap shown around 3:18. I found them to be much more comfortable, but one of my concerns is that my hands feel trapped into landing with the handle under my palm if or when a fall triggers the proactive extension reflex. This can result in an injury known as "skier's thumb," whereas the loop straps held in your recommended manner can be released to reduce any chance of landing on the handle.
hi there... how do you find the Leki Black Series Carbon?
two main types of material for folding or telescopic, one is Carbon fiber and the other Aluminum. There is also a wood type that does not fold but are more for day hikers and those who need something for daily use but are not wanting a true cane. Was at one time a folding fiberglass pole but these were only okay and needed replacing after so many miles, sooner than Aluminum or Carbon Fiber so they got stopped in the 1990's.
I go for this one model from Black Diamond that is the Distance Trek but the Aluminum model (not sure it is still made or even a similar mode) since the Carbon fiber Z adjustable at the time in 2015 would snap in half for trail running but have since beefed it up for trail runners. I wanted an adjustable model for hiking hills and for other needs so I could keep that 90% elbow in the ground position when pole is flat.
Also, there are some that with parts can handle snow/mud very well, my dad has some, but the basket part never stayed well in the three section Black Diamond aluminum frame model I got him, for Christmas, so he removed the part and has a gap in a spot, fine for him as it never really mad enough difference for him since the part was why that model got changed up for snowshoe/some more rugged cross country/mountain ski people due to having issues and why that model was on deep discount from initial price online. Main reason I got these for my dad is they use cork unlike the type of foam with my model that has the odd deep ridges that older Black Diamond poles are known for.
I have the aluminum Leki Micro Vario TA that is 3 section foldable and also has a a clamp lock mechanism to adjust height. I notice it has pretty evident vibration-not much when I apply a downward force, but when I swing them and plant them in front of me, where force is not longitudinal. Is this probably due to material (aluminum) or construction (3 section foldable)? Nobody’s seems to complain about the Leki Micro Vario Carbon, which has the same construction. Have you got any experience with that or did you heard something on it? I can’t decide between that and the Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork, which has a clamp lock style, but obviously its packed size is much bigger.
carbon fiber is really strong when bending or flexing - BUT where they are not as "strong" is when they are hit with sharp objects or cuts. If you where to smash them on a rock they are much more likely to break than aluminium
For those of us who have to take a flight to get to the trailhead, the collapsible poles fit in a suitcase. The others must be carried on a backpack onto the plane and are often stopped at airport security and have even been confiscated.
Great info
Actually I thought the three section poles would be the strongest for vertical loads
Really helpful.
I bought the BD carbon Z poles a few weeks ago, amazingly light but good point if using for tent setup, something I havnt even had a chance to try yet. Hope it goes alright :(
Where is the video on the budget pole?
The straps give my hands blisters so I’m often just ditching the strap and gripping the pole, which adds tension to my arms…any tips on what type of fabric to look for in a strap? Or is it to do with how I’m using the straps? I do put my hand through the correct way.
I find the fabric one cheap poles really abrasive and not comfortable at all. Always good to test them out in a shop first!
Leki makes gloves too, not only poles.
Yep! When I bought my micro flash carbons I bought some light weight gloves too, not cheep but great for chilly winter evenings. However the supplied mesh gloves are big enough to take gloved hands so when the tempuature dips to freezing I use normal gloves with the mesh glove
is this a good idea to use flip-lock trekking poles for trail running?
I’ve never had any issues with it
@@ChaseMountains Thanks! Still have to figure out how to carry them when not using them. I would like to carry poles vertically, something like Salomon custom quiver but longer.
He said carbon fiber and aluminum are the best for vibration. Any one know which is better?
Definitely carbon fibre is better for minimizing vibrations.
What do you prefer Cork handle or Rubber?
]
Cork for sure
That's What I have Black Diamond. Carbon Fiber Cork handle. I got them at REI. I take them with me just incase I get fatigued. I have Parkinson's Disease. I haven't used them. My friends who hike who are in their mid 50s like I am most use them.
Leki has a lifetime warranty ?
Only on aluminium poles. 1 year for carbon
@@ChaseMountains thank you for the information!
Where is that budget review hiding?👀
I’m sorry, Chase, but I don’t think your disclaimer makes sense. You say that Leki is in no way sponsoring this video… but they gave you a pair of poles. That’s great for you, but this is the line you cross to being an influencer. Not saying you’ve sold your soul, but be honest, man.
I know this is an old comment, but just an FYI to maybe people watching in the future or for reference on other videos too.. being sponsored and being gifted a product are two different things. He didn’t lie about anything and he WAS being honest as he even disclosed they kindly gave him a pair after demonstrating the usage 😅 it helps to understand the terms first before making any assumptions. Cheers lol
@@user-lu8ue4ns4wSpot on.
Trekking poles, to me, are yet another ascribed contrivance unneeded by any healthy hiker short of those with balance problems or bad knees. Human beings have walked in mountainous terrain for eons without them, many carrying heavy weights and awkward loads. Without these pricey sticks, you develop your lower leg muscles and ankles in a normal way and enhance your built-in balance systems. Your arms can act as part of your natural gait, and your hands are liberated for carrying things, grabbing branches, swatting flies, and so on. We don’t need help walking. All the tools are built in.
Anyone who has done thru hikes with and without poles wont agree with your assessment. They 100% aid in making the hike easier, especially downhill as they reduce a lot of strain on tired ankles and knees. Bodies are not reactive and break down from wear and tear regardless of how fit you think you are. Anyone who subscribes to the attitude of "just push yourself harder" is a walking injury waiting to happen. More so when you add pack weight. You seem to be turning your nose up at the price and flare more than the function.
Humans have been using walking sticks or staffs since they first stood on two legs.
It’s a valid point you make. Walking with poles is fine, but don’t neglect all important ankle strength and balance work because you’ve got the added support to fall back on.
I personally have found I generally only want to use poles on very steep climbs. On steep scrambly descents, I’d much rather have my hands free to guide me down.
I certainly used to think this and I assumed they were for older people or those with joint problems.
But I saw others, including young people, use them and could understand where they could be useful. About six months ago (Boxing Day sales) I bought a pair after getting some recommendations and advice.
They were cumbersome to get used to, particularly when scrambling or adjusting height to terrain but now I find I’m a bit less tired after a hike or consecutive day hikes.
Also, I was worried that my leg and core muscles might get lazy but I have not found this to be the case. Though of course you do have to watch your posture.
Each to their own though ☺️
Human beings have also used walking sticks for eons. The modern trekking pole is merely the modern version of a tool that's been around since the dawn of man.
Concepts like Friction and Thermodynamics aren't advanced.
Can we maybe stop pretending that they are please?