As hunters, we often focus on the core items that help us track and bring home our game — whether it’s a gun, bow, ammo, or a trusty knife. However, there’s one key piece of equipment that often gets overlooked: trekking poles. After all, they’re not as glamorous as a high-powered rifle or a bow, but they can make a huge difference in your ability to traverse rough terrain with ease, especially during long hunts or hikes.
During my archery elk hunt in Colorado this past September, I finally decided to give trekking poles a try. We were in for some serious hiking at high altitudes, so I needed something light, durable, and easy to pack. I opted for the Black Diamond Trail Adjustable Trekking Poles, and I can say without hesitation that they exceeded my expectations.
Features & Performance
The Black Diamond Trail poles are built with 7075 aluminum shafts, which strike a perfect balance between weight and durability. They’re sturdy enough to handle rough conditions and heavy loads while remaining light enough to carry without issue during long treks.
Some key features of these poles that stood out during my hunt include:
Real-World Use: A Hunter's Perspective
The real test of these poles came when we were hiking up and down steep mountain slopes, crossing rivers, and wading through swampy bogs. At a combined weight of about 230 poundswith gear, I needed poles that could take the load and keep me steady. The Black Diamond poles held up beautifully. They provided stability on steep descents, reducing stress on my knees, and they helped me maintain my footing in tricky areas like slippery riverbeds and muddy trails.
Adjusting the poles to my preferred length was easy, thanks to the FlickLock system. The poles locked securely in place, and there was no slippage, even when carrying a heavy pack. This made navigating steep inclines and rocky paths much more manageable.
Durability & Comfort
The poles also felt very durable, with no signs of wear after days of rough use. The ergonomic grips, which were a big selling point for me, proved to be incredibly comfortable throughout the trip. Unlike other poles I’ve used in the past, the Black Diamond poles didn’t cause blisters or hand fatigue — an important factor when you’re putting in hours of hiking.
Final Thoughts
I went into my trek with a bit of skepticism about trekking poles, but after seeing how useful they were on my Colorado elk hunt, I’m a full convert. The Black Diamond Trail Adjustable Trekking Poles proved to be a great investment for anyone who plans on hiking or hunting in rugged terrain. For a retail price of around $119, these poles provide incredible value. They're durable, comfortable, and more than capable of handling tough conditions.
If you're gearing up for your next hunt or camping trip that will require a fair amount of hiking, I strongly recommend these trekking poles. Your knees, legs, and overall comfort will thank you.
Click here to get yours today and experience the difference yourself!