Black Diamond Distance Flz Trekking Pole Review

The black diamond distance z is a lightweight and durable pole that packs down to a small size.

Black diamond distance flz trekking pole review.

After weeks of hard use in the pakistani karakoram himalaya range the black diamond alpine flz model blew me away in terms of performance. At the 2019 giants head marathon i got the chance to use some running poles for the first time. Here they have crafted a lightweight carbon pole that packs down extremely small yet also allows for some length adjustment. The black diamond alpine flz poles are both excellent ultralight trekking poles in addition to being my top pick for the best collapsible trekking poles out there.

Although it isn t an award winner it still performs admirably for those looking for a dependable pole. Combining the amazing compactibility of a z pole with flicklock the distance flz is an excellent choice for long hikes and steep approaches. 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. 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.

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. It also is the most affordable of the lightweight poles in our review earning it an esteemed best buy award. Perhaps one of the best features of the distance flz is the ease by which these poles collapse and lock into place.

The alpine flz is the most versatile trekking pole in the black diamond line up. 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. 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. Black diamond z series trekking poles feature what bd refers to as z pole technology where the trekking poles have silicone encased dyneema that enables them to fold down to a fragment of their extended size.

We love black diamond s trekking poles and the distance carbon flz is no exception. Words by ben pitfield. It offers durable aluminum construction comfortable cork handles and a foldable design that packs down small. 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.