M Black Diamond Ultra Distance Trekking Pole Review

by Will Rietveld

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Article Summary:

In spring 2011, Black Diamond will be introducing their new Z-Pole series of trekking poles that collapse down to a small size so they can be stowed inside a backpack or travel bag. They use avalanche pole technology to connect the sections, so the poles virtually snap into place.

The series consists of three models: the Ultra Distance fixed length carbon fiber pole, the Distance FL aluminum adjustable length pole, and the Distance aluminum fixed length pole. The Distance and Distance FL are a bit lighter than conventional aluminum trekking poles; their primary advantage is their collapsibility. However, the Ultra Distance (reviewed here) is more remarkable because it is both lightweight and collapsible.

The Ultra Distance is a collapsible fixed length pole. It does not have any screw or flick-lock connectors to contend with, which saves weight and potential problems. The collapsibility feature is nice, but how do they compare with other lightweight carbon fiber trekking poles?

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