Brand: Black Diamond
Category: Trekking Poles
Recommended by Donnie Orr, Ultra Chef — Appalachia, Northeastern WV
Highlights: lightweight, durable
The Distance Carbon Z Trekking/Running Poles by Black Diamond are lightweight, collapsible poles designed for both trekking and running enthusiasts. Their innovative design and premium materials provide exceptional stability and support, making them an essential companion for any outdoor adventure. 1. Ultra-lightweight carbon construction ensures minimal weight without sacrificing strength. 2. Z-Pole technology allows for quick and easy setup and collapse, making them highly portable. 3. Ergonomic grip with breathable foam provides comfort during extended use, reducing hand fatigue. 4. Adjustable wrist straps enhance stability and support, allowing for a secure fit. 5. Versatile design suitable for both trekking and running, adapting to various terrains. 6. Durable tungsten carbide tips offer superior traction on diverse surfaces, from rocky trails to smooth paths. 7. Compact size when collapsed (approximately 40 cm), making them easy to stow in a backpack or carry on the go. The Distance Carbon Z Trekking/Running Poles are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who engage in hiking, trekking, or trail running. They perform best in varied terrains, from mountainous trails to flat paths, providing stability and support for users of all skill levels. These poles excel in scenarios where lightweight gear is essential, such as long-distance hikes or fast-paced runs, and are suitable for use in all seasons, enhancing performance in both summer and winter conditions.
Price: $113.97 - $189.95
- Who it's for
- Trail runners and long-distance hikers who prioritize low weight and packability, including those doing ultras or big mountain days. Also suits climbers who need poles on the approach that stow away compactly once on route.
- What people are saying
- Hosts consistently praise the durability and light weight, with multiple noting 5–7 years of hard use with no failures. One host frames them as essentially tied with the red Leki poles at the "lightest-performing" tier, making it a preference call between the two.
- Worth noting
- One host (5'9") confirms 120 cm works well for their height. The magnetic strap system and carbide tips are called out as practical features; carbon construction is noted as genuinely durable for the material.
Donnie Orr's review
These poles are awesome I have had them for over 7 years no issues!
Recommended by Donnie Orr, Ultra Chef
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Distance Carbon Z Trekking/Running Poles for?
Trail runners and long-distance hikers who prioritize low weight and packability, including those doing ultras or big mountain days. Also suits climbers who need poles on the approach that stow away compactly once on route.
What do experts say about the Distance Carbon Z Trekking/Running Poles?
Hosts consistently praise the durability and light weight, with multiple noting 5–7 years of hard use with no failures. One host frames them as essentially tied with the red Leki poles at the "lightest-performing" tier, making it a preference call between the two.
What should you know before buying the Distance Carbon Z Trekking/Running Poles?
One host (5'9") confirms 120 cm works well for their height. The magnetic strap system and carbide tips are called out as practical features; carbon construction is noted as genuinely durable for the material.
What does Donnie Orr say about the Distance Carbon Z Trekking/Running Poles?
These poles are awesome I have had them for over 7 years no issues!
Why does Donnie Orr recommend Black Diamond?
Donnie Orr recommends the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking/Running Poles for trekking poles. These poles are awesome I have had them for over 7 years no issues!
Is the Distance Carbon Z Trekking/Running Poles a good trekking pole?
Yes — Donnie Orr recommends the Distance Carbon Z Trekking/Running Poles by Black Diamond as their trekking poles pick. These poles are awesome I have had them for over 7 years no issues!
More from Donnie Orr's Allegheny Trail FKT Gear/Nutrition
View Donnie Orr's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
What other hosts are saying
15 experts recommend the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking/Running Poles.
Kilian Korth, Professional Trail Runner
I'm 5'9" and the 120cm poles work great for me. Light, durable, and easy to use, these practically live in the pole quiver of my running vest.
Recommended in Cocodona 250 Kit + Fuel
John Bruno, Ultra trail-runner, ski mountaineer
Another tried and true classic trail pole. Truly lightweight and very durable for a carbon pole. Carbide tips maintain grip on basically any surface. A great option if you don’t like wearing those Leki gloves.
Recommended in Trail running
Dreama Walton, Trail & Ultrarunner, Coach and Founder of DreamAdventures and Dreama Team Way
I've been using the Z poles for years and I love them. They are light, durable and dependable. I've used them at UTMB to High Lonesome 100 and they sure have handled the demand I put on them!
Recommended in My Trail Running List
Seth Burns, Mountain Guide, Avalanche Forecaster
Light weight poles that can be used on the approach but then disappear in a small climbing pack once on route.
Recommended in North Cascades Alpine Climbing
I've had my pair for 7 years. Everytime I pull them out i think it's surely time for new ones but they've stayed strong.
Recommended in Broken Arrow
Chrissy Goodbody, Bone Surgeon. Dog Mom. Ultrarunner.
Durable and lightweight, easy to store!
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
Jasmine Brown, Road Runner | Hiker| Trail Runner
Best hiking pole for long hikes without added weight. Super light and sturdy.
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
Compact and easy to use. They provide that extra support on those big climbs when the legs are tired
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
Miles Victors, Outdoor Enthusiast and Mountain Athlete
I use the 130cm variant, and they are bullet proof. Also check out the carbon model for a little more weight savings.
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
My go to poles for long days in the mountains
Recommended in Mountain Lakes 100
I have used these poles for 5 years, and use them for every race. The quality is top tier, and they have lasted a very long time.
Recommended in 10 Products I Actually Use
Allen Au, Exceptional Amateur
I think I'm annoyed that at the "lightest possible poles that perform well" tier, there's only this color wave and the red Leki ones. So at this point, choose the one you jive with.
Recommended in 2026 - Trail Season Kit
Troy Meadows, Ultra Runner | Host of the MidPacker Pod | Entrepreneur
What can I say, I'm a BD Pole guy;)
Recommended in My Trail Quiver
these were lifesavers when doing rim to rim to rim at the grand canyon!
Recommended in Ultrarunning Staples
