Trekking Poles...I need some...what do I buy?

PintsOfCraft

Lil-Rokslider
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Title says it all. Not trying to save a buck - I'd prefer to buy a pair that I'll have forever. I run a Kifaru SuperTarp so adjustable models are preferred. Love to get your .02 on this.
 
I'm in the same boat. Been eyeing the Leki carbon folding set...Forgot the model but they run about $200 and are the ones on the Kuiu site, although I'd buy them elsewhere. They are just shy of 15 ounces I think.
 
I run the leki corklite and couldn't be happier... Very strong and I actually like the little flex they have being aluminum over the carbons and the flip locks are awesome.. Got them from Sierra trading post with free shipping and $20 of so came to like $83..
 
I've been running BD Alpine Carbon Corks now for about 5 or 6 years and they have been great, but I just picked up a pair of Locus Gear CF poles and replaced the foam grips with Gossamer Gear cork grips. I've only used them a few times but so far I'm really liking them, and they weigh less than 11 oz. for the pair, compared to the BD's that weigh 18 oz.

If you're looking for something on the cheap yet that's still very well made and light weight, check out the cork handled, carbon fiber, flick locks that Costco sells for $28. Right around 15 oz. and you can't beat the price.

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If you require adjustability The locus gear carbon poles are really nice. I've had mine a year and have no complaints. They're high quality the the weight is amazing.
 
I run the leki corklite and couldn't be happier... Very strong and I actually like the little flex they have being aluminum over the carbons and the flip locks are awesome.. Got them from Sierra trading post with free shipping and $20 of so came to like $83..

These are the ones I have. I have been really happy with these. I also think the aluminum poles are a little more forgiving than the carbons.
 
Very solid responses! Thanks for the assist. Sounds like cork handles and either aluminum or carbon depending on budget. Had no idea that Costco had them so inexpensively - glad because the Kuiu cart has a few other items in it.
 
I've been running BD Alpine Carbon Corks now for about 5 or 6 years and they have been great, but I just picked up a pair of Locus Gear CF poles and replaced the foam grips with Gossamer Gear cork grips. I've only used them a few times but so far I'm really liking them, and they weigh less than 11 oz. for the pair, compared to the BD's that weigh 18 oz.

If you're looking for something on the cheap yet that's still very well made and light weight, check out the cork handled, carbon fiber, flick locks that Costco sells for $28. Right around 15 oz. and you can't beat the price.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

FWIW I put those GG grips on my ACC's and I think they weigh around 13oz now.
 
Andrew Skurka has a good write up on trekking poles on his blog. Based on his input I went with the Costco model.
 
Just got back from Costco and forgot to browse the 'outdoor section'. I'll be sure to look next time I'm there to see if the trekking poles are in stock.
 
I've had very good luck with Black Diamond poles...as with any gear if you abuse it things will break, bend and wear out..currently running a pair of BD zpoles when no snow and another pair of BD poles when in the snow...with lighter comes less durability but they are awfully nice to pack when not in use. Black diamond makes great options.
 
What is the advantage to running cork handles vs. foam?
I like the feel of them better but they are also much more durable than foam. Either one is preferable to plain plastic grips. Those suck with sweaty hands.
 
I run Leki Journey poles and they do everything I need them to (including use as poles for a Mountain Shelter LT).

I would stick to Leki or Black Diamond. I prefer aluminum to carbon, handles are a personal choice but I like cork (even though mine have foam/rubber). Definitely get ones with flick/cam locks instead of twist locks.
 
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