Pole Position

Carbon fiber trekking poles provide outstanding stiffness to weight ratio - a key metric in evaluating pole efficiency when climbing. However, failure can be catastrophic, as Jorgen found out with his Komperdell Nordic Walking Poles, and Mike Martin with his Gossamer Gear Lightrek 3 poles. Wide baskets, careful talus use, and thick-walled carbon are essential ingredients to making poles work in these conditions. Shown: Backpacking Light Stix, 2008 Model.