Trekking Poles for Snowshoeing

[hikingoz]

Hi folks,

I'm searching for a set of trekking poles to use with snowshoes this winter. I've narrowed it down to a few and am ready to pull the trigger but I thought I'd throw it out there and see if anyone has a better suggestion???

First of all I considered using conventional ski poles, available for only a couple of bucks second hand but obviously not telescopic. I've decided not to do this purely because they would be a pain in scrub mounted on the side of my pack. So I want a set of telescopic or folding poles, mounted with snow baskets. I don't want a shock absorber.

I've narrowed it down mostly based on price and quality to the following:

Gossamer Gear LT4's. US$195.45 206g
http://gossamergear.com/trekking/trekki ... poles.html
Advantages: Very light wieght. Replaceable sections.
Disadvantages: Expensive. Not as strong? Needs snow basket fitted.

Black Diamond Compactor Ski Pole A$165 595g
http://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en ... r-ski-pole
Advantages: Compact length. Aluminium. Snow Baskets
Disadvantages: No replacement sections.Heavier

Leki Thermolite XL Speedlock A$135 (with snow baskets) 470g
http://www.leki.com/trekking/trekkingPole.php?pID=91
Advantages: Speedlock adjustment. Nice construction. Cheapest
Disadvantages: Heavier. Needs baskets. Non replaceable sections.

Helinox LB Series $139 448g
http://www.helinox.com.au/pages/lb-seri ... -poles.asp
Advantages: Lever locks
Disadvantages: FOAM GRIPS. No baskets.

I should ad that those prices are shipped. Also that I'm likely to use the same poles in all seasons every now and again.

Has anyone used these poles or can suggest a better value option?

Cheers

[Moondog55]

Pick a model with the ability to change basket size, you don't need powder baskets often in OZ but when you do need them you really really need them.
You have already said you don't want the option I would have recommended

[ninjapuppet]

I've got those thermolite XL Speedlocks, but not having tried your other 3, I cant really make any meaningful comparison.

You're right about the snow baskets, Leki makes you buy them separately.
Ive got a pair of bladk diamond carbon ski poles and they're only 2 section. Collapsed, they're much too long for my liking when hiking in summer so they're left only for the winter snow. Their snow baskets isnt as nice as Lekis. The best part about them is that they screw together to make an ultralight paddle....but thats off topic and wont interest you.

Comparing the Leki speedlock vs black my diamond's locks, I'd prefer the Leki locks. They are very easy to flick open and adjust compared to the BD which requires a bit of effort from the friction. Maybe my BD's are still new and not worn in yet, I dont know. Get to a shop and actually compare them yourself to see what i mean.

Dont often hear of people breaking Leki's, but I have had a few friends break a LT4, and read several stories online, but they're so light!

[iGBH]

I just went through the same exercise. Never used poles before for walking, but needed to get some for snowshoeing so figured i would get something which could suit both if i was convinced on the merits of walking with poles.

Ended up going with the carbon Pacer Poles which worked out to be about $150 delivered directly from the UK.
Using a similar rating system to yours:

Pros: reasonable price (esp. considering carbon), replaceable parts, relatively lightweight (i believe there is such a thing as too light weight with poles - and not just from a strength perspective), ergonomic grip - BIG ONE!
Cons: heavier compared to other CF poles if that is really important to you. Uses twist lock rather than BD flick lock.

I haven't done more than use them for a few hours walking at Lake Mountain, but first impressions are very good. I think the design of the handles is really good and now cannot imagine using a completely vertical pole - it is not a natural grip or posture.

My 10c worth.

[hikingoz]

Sturdiness is important for snowshoeing. I tend to stumble walking on top of scrub or down slopes. I wouldn't consider carbon poles at all if they weren't repairable.

[roysta]

I'm going mountaineering in Peru in July with a pair of Helinox LB130 poles, I have snow baskets for them.
I like the look of these poles, even with foam handles.

[Bluegum Mic]

I have to admit I just use my BD trails with the powder baskets on but at the moment I only get a day at best for plodding around when down the snow so I just use what I've got (mind you they are fine). I do however agree with Moondog on the idea of being able to get dual use of them ie hiking and on snow. I personally choose adjustable length poles vs my fixed length ski poles simply so they can be lengthen/shortened according to terrain if need be or collapsed and put away.

[sthughes]

Black Diamond Contour Elliptic (comes with snow baskets). I no longer even look at other types of poles, these are comfy and indestructable (well almost!). No idea how much they weigh, as I use them 99% of the time the robustness is much more important than the weight. Oh and the elliptic shape helps when using them as an axe

BTW I have some for sale in the market square! Just remembered! Guess that makes my comments less than impartial

[hikingoz]

Black Diamond Contour Elliptic (comes with snow baskets). I no longer even look at other types of poles, these are comfy and indestructable (well almost!). No idea how much they weigh, as I use them 99% of the time the robustness is much more important than the weight. Oh and the elliptic shape helps when using them as an axe

BTW I have some for sale in the market square! Just remembered! Guess that makes my comments less than impartial

I can't find you're sale post anywhere. Please give it a bump or link it here so I can have a look.

Cheers

[sthughes]

Bumped, and they are here: http://bushwalk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=9150

Note: It doesn't show the snow baskets but they are included.

[hikingoz]

In the end I opted for the leki poles listed at the top.

They cost me A$120 delivered off Amazon.com

leki baskets cost me $10.

Hopefully they prove to be durable.

StHughes thanks for posting that. I've used a pair of those poles borowed off a mate. They are great although slightly prone to being bent sideways. Definately a good deal at the price you're offering.

Cheers,

ABCEIGHT