Sold singly, or in “twins”, Carbon Long Backpacker trekking poles from Alpkit are designed to be used with tarp shelters that need a trekking pole to pitch. These long poles do away with the need of an extender section necessary with standard models. Taller folk will also appreciate the added length. The two upper carbon sections help to keep the weight down, and the bottom section is made from aluminium, adding essential strength and durability to the overall structure.
Lucy Wallace Recommends
Overall, whilst the added length will have a niche appeal, these poles do the job they are designed for, well. If you are looking for a longer length trekking pole, then these are worth checking out.- Lightweight
- Useful length for tarp shelters
- Excellent value
- Length when collapsed
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: 69.99/pair Weight: 225g each Pros: light weight, useful length for tarp shelters, excellent value Cons: length when collapsed Materials: Carbon fibre, aluminium, EVA foam, tungsten tip Features: EVA foam handle,webbing wrist loops, flick lock fastenings, trekking baskets, pavement tips Size: 69-150cm Men’s version: unisex URL: https://alpkit.com/ |
It’s a telescopic design, and not very compact. There’s no way it’s fitting inside my daysack and even strapped to the outside it feels like some kind of lightning conductor. It’s not such a big deal strapped to an expedition bag though thankfully. The pole sections are secured with tough plastic flick lock levers, and nuts on the side of each allow these to be tightened easily in the field without the need for added tools. What is interesting to me is that these levers are identical to those on the Robens Ambleside C66 also tested, which leads me to believe that these were made in the same factory, but to different brand specifications. The addition of the aluminium bottom section means that these feel like a much stronger design than the Robens.
I tested the Carbon Long Backpacker model with a simple EVA foam grip, but Alpkit do make a version with an extended grip, which for me would be preferable. There’s no price difference between the two.
Overall, whilst the added length will have a niche appeal, these poles do the job they are designed for, well. If you are looking for a longer length trekking pole, then these are worth checking out, and great value too.
