Brand: Black Diamond
Category: Ice & Alpine Gear
Recommended by Seth Burns, Mountain Guide, Avalanche Forecaster — UT & WA
Highlights: lightweight, durable
The Distance Carbon Z Poles are engineered for speed and efficiency, offering the lightest design in the Z-Pole category. Crafted from 100% carbon, these poles combine durability with an ultra-compact, foldable structure for quick deployment on any adventure. 1. Constructed from 100% carbon fiber for an ultra-lightweight feel without compromising strength. 2. Three-section foldable design allows for rapid setup and easy storage in a backpack. 3. Slimmer pole diameter reduces bulk, enhancing portability and ease of use. 4. Breathable and moisture-wicking ultralight recycled nylon strap for maximum comfort during extended use. 5. Ergonomic EVA grip provides a comfortable hold, ideal for long treks. 6. Interchangeable Tech Tips accommodate various terrains, ensuring optimal performance on different surfaces. 7. Weighs significantly less than traditional trekking poles, making it perfect for fast-paced activities. The Distance Carbon Z Poles are designed for trail runners, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking lightweight support during their adventures. They excel in varied environments, from rugged mountain trails to smooth forest paths, making them ideal for both casual outings and competitive racing. Best suited for users who prioritize speed and efficiency, these poles are perfect for spring and summer excursions where agility and minimal weight are essential.
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.
Seth Burns's review
Light weight poles that can be used on the approach but then disappear in a small climbing pack once on route.
Recommended by Seth Burns, Mountain Guide, Avalanche Forecaster
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Distance Carbon Z 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 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 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 Seth Burns say about the Distance Carbon Z Poles?
Light weight poles that can be used on the approach but then disappear in a small climbing pack once on route.
Why does Seth Burns recommend Black Diamond?
Seth Burns recommends the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Poles for ice & alpine gear. Light weight poles that can be used on the approach but then disappear in a small climbing pack once on route.
Is the Distance Carbon Z Poles a good ice & alpine gear?
Yes — Seth Burns recommends the Distance Carbon Z Poles by Black Diamond as their ice & alpine gear pick. Light weight poles that can be used on the approach but then disappear in a small climbing pack once on route.
More from Seth Burns's North Cascades Alpine Climbing
View Seth Burns's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
What other hosts are saying
15 experts recommend the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z 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
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
