Black Diamond Distance Flz Trekking Pole Review

The alpine flz is the most versatile trekking pole in the black diamond line up.

Black diamond distance flz trekking pole review.

Although it isn t an award winner it still performs admirably for those looking for a dependable pole. The distance flz is lighter than our editors choice the black diamond alpine carbon cork and top pick the alpine carbon z both an ounce heavier at. Words by ben pitfield. At the 2019 giants head marathon i got the chance to use some running poles for the first time.

We love black diamond s trekking poles and the distance carbon flz is no exception. Combining the amazing compactibility of a z pole with flicklock the distance flz is an excellent choice for long hikes and steep approaches. Experienced runner ben pitfield had a chance to test the black diamond distance carbon flz trekking running poles during the event. To see how the black diamond alpine flz trekking poles compare with my other favorite trekking poles check out our review of the best trekking poles of 2018.

To keep the weight down however the pole sacrifices some refinement in comfort and durability. At 16 ounces the distance flz is on the lighter side of poles and lighter than most traditional telescoping poles with the exception of the komperdell c3 carbon compact which is a mere 13 ounces. And here are his thoughts black diamond running poles on test. Now improved with our slidelock technology and increased joint durability the distance z provides reliable three season support for a wide array of mountain adventures.

It offers durable aluminum construction comfortable cork handles and a foldable design that packs down small. Other affordable options are more adjustable but weigh significantly more while the distance z is geared more towards the lightweight mountain running and technical climbing crowd. The black diamond distance plus flz trekking poles is unique in that it is composed of an upper section that is actually three nested aluminum tubes and then a lower portion that consists of two aluminum pole sections connected to the inner tube of the upper section by a shielded kevlar cord. After hiking thousands of miles with fixed shaft trekking poles in my hands over the years i was kind of skeptical about using collapsible trekking poles for a variety of reasons.

It also is the most affordable of the lightweight poles in our review earning it an esteemed best buy award. The black diamond distance z is a lightweight and durable pole that packs down to a small size. Here they have crafted a lightweight carbon pole that packs down extremely small yet also allows for some length adjustment. After weeks of hard use in the pakistani karakoram himalaya range the black diamond alpine flz model blew me away in terms of performance.