Brand: Black Diamond
Category: Climbing Poles
Recommended by Nate Ward, Trail Running Enthusiast, Skiing Connoisseur, Fly Fishing Novice, Outdoor Expert. — Jackson, WY
Highlights: lightweight, durable
The Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles are engineered for speed and efficiency, making them the ultimate choice for adventurers who prioritize lightweight performance without sacrificing durability. Weighing just 140 grams per pole, these poles are designed to enhance your outdoor experience, whether you're trail running or hiking. 1. Weighs only 140 grams per pole (120cm), making them the lightest option in Black Diamond’s Z-Pole lineup. 2. Constructed from 100% carbon fiber for exceptional strength and durability while remaining ultra-lightweight. 3. Quick-fold Z-Pole design with speed cone technology allows for instant deployment and easy breakdown. 4. Features a moisture-wicking EVA foam grip and a strap made from recycled materials for enhanced comfort during extended use. 5. Interchangeable carbide and rubber tips provide versatility for different terrains, ensuring optimal performance on various surfaces. 6. Removable low-profile baskets allow for customization based on the environment, making them suitable for both rugged trails and smooth paths. 7. Fixed-length, three-section design ensures stability and reliability during fast-paced activities. These trekking poles are ideal for trail runners, thru-hikers, and alpine adventurers seeking lightweight support on their journeys. They excel in diverse environments, from rocky mountain trails to smooth forest paths, and are perfect for users of all skill levels. Designed for year-round use, they perform exceptionally well in both summer hikes and winter excursions, providing the necessary stability and adaptability for any outdoor adventure.
Price: $219.95
- 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.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Distance Carbon Z Trekking 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 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 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.
More from Nate Ward's Summer Mountaineering
View Nate Ward's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
What other hosts are saying
16 experts recommend the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking 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
These poles are awesome I have had them for over 7 years no issues!
Recommended in Allegheny Trail FKT Gear/Nutrition
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
