Gear Review: Black Diamond Alpine FLZ Trekking Poles

Value Rating: 7 Durability Rating: 8 Overall Rating: 8 Location of Test: Selkirk Mountains, Mt. Hood Duration of Test: 6 months Product Name: Alpine FLZ Trekking Poles Product Brand: Black Diamond Best Use: Mountaineering Sizes: 95-110 cm 105-125 cm 120-140 cm The Full Review: I recently picked up a pair of Black Diamond’s Alpine FLZ Trekking Poles. Soon after buying them, I spent six days alpine climbing, using them every day. The Alpine FLZ is Black Diamond’s collapsible adjustable Z pole. It has cork grips and an aluminum shaft and comes in several length ranges. I was pleasantly surprised by their weight—their cork handles, though dense, don’t feel overly heavy. The presence of only one FlickLock also cuts down on weight. The poles are super easy to setup—all you have to do is pull on the segment just below the handle, and the poll locks into place. A great, all-metal FlickLock securely holds the poll in any position. The poles come in three sizes, and can be adjusted to the range within each. Though some Black Diamond poles have issues with the security of the baskets, the powder baskets screwed tightly onto the threads and stayed there. The poles felt strong when I would lean on them—I used them hopping through boulder fields in mountaineering boots and carrying a heavy pack, and I didn’t feel them flex in any scary way under my weight. I loved the easily adjustable handles that magically lock into place without a problem. The poles showed some cosmetic scratches on the aluminum shafts, however, they have yet to suffer any wear that would compromise their performance. I was quite happy with my purchase of these poles. They felt sturdy, durable, light and comfortable, and I’d recommend them to anyone looking for a strong pole for alpine or backpacking adventures. The Black Diamond Alpine FLZ poles are shown collapsed and stowed. Also pictured is the Mountain Hardwear SummitRocket 30 pack. The Good Strong, comfortable, easy to use. The Bad: Expensive. The Bottom Line: A very versatile pole that I would recommend for general mountaineering, ski touring, and even hiking use.