When we first picked up a pair of the adjustable, three-section REI Carbon Composite Power Lock trekking poles, we were amazed by how impossibly light they felt. They seemed nearly weightless, not the 14.8 ounces (women’s pair) or 17 ounces (men’s pair) they truly weigh.
Then, upon noticing that each pole has a pair of easy-to-use aluminum locking levers for customizing the spacing of the pole sections, it was clear that it was time to cull our shed’s stash of aging and mismatched poles to make some room for these beauties.
Of course, the EVA foam grips and extra-comfortable wrist straps are quite nice, as are the poles’ reliable tungsten-carbide tips. It’s tempting to end this review right here with nothing less than our sincere recommendation to grab some of these poles. Then again, even trekking poles don’t get off that easily.
Before diving into how these poles actually worked for us, there are a few more features worth noting. The poles come equipped with low-profile trekking baskets, which can be easily twisted on or off. Larger snow baskets can be purchased separately for adapting these poles to winter hiking, skiing and snowboarding adventures. For backcountry snowboarding and splitboarding, where the rider often prefers to stow the poles away for the descent, these easily-packed poles are an excellent choice.
The pole shafts are also labeled with centimeter marks, so you can easily readjust the pole sections to your favorite lengths. And on top of the aluminum locking levers being especially easy to use—and effective at holding its respective pole section in place—the levers feature a simple adjustment screw to fine-tune the tension on the lever, which may vary slightly as temperatures change and time passes.
While trekking around Vermont’s Green Mountains this summer, we found the extended foam grips offered several comfortable hand positions. One day while scrambling up steep, rocky sections of trail, our hands and grips often pressed directly against the ground. Some minor wear and a few tiny tears appeared on the grips relatively easily, revealing a possible weak spot in these poles. However, the grips held up well overall, and weren’t by any means beginning to peel apart due to our wear and tear. A more durable grip might add weight and decrease the comfort factor, perhaps not a worthwhile trade off.
Adjusting the poles was a breeze, no matter how wet or dusty they seemed to be. And the three-piece design lets you easily stow or pack the poles when you prefer to travel with two free hands.
Not used to traveling with such classy poles, we rely on these poles for what they do best: provide comfort, extra balance, support and traction on the great variety of terrain you’ll encounter on your adventures.
Shop REI Carbon Composite Men’s Power Lock Trekking Poles or REI Carbon Composite Power Lock Trekking Poles – Women’s only at REI.com.