Article by Markus Zinkl
Diorite Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles ($180)
Introduction
Today, we're delving into the Diorite's Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles – a product that aims to strike a balance between performance and sustainability.
Designed for year-round stability, these carbon fiber trekking poles are impressively lightweight. What makes them noteworthy is their eco-friendly approach. Diorite use locally produced carbon tubes and uses recyclable packaging, aligning with the growing need for sustainability in the outdoor gear industry.
Handcrafted in Portland, Oregon, these poles boast quality craftsmanship. They prioritize comfort with their ergonomic EVA foam grips and adjustable wrist straps, ensuring a secure hold during your adventures.
One standout feature is the quick-lock system, making adjustments a straightforward task. Whether you're tackling uneven terrain or navigating through urban environments, these poles adapt accordingly.
To enhance versatility, Diorite includes additional accessories like snow and mud baskets, along with rubber tips for different conditions.
Join me in taking a closer look at these trekking poles – a blend of craftsmanship, sustainability, and user-centric design. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a casual explorer, these poles aim to enhance your outdoor experiences. So, let's explore them together and see how they measure up.
Tech Specs
Usable Length: 71 cm/ 28 inch - 158 cm/ 62 inch
Packed Length: 71 cm/ 28 inch
Weight per pole: 210 g/ 7.4 oz
Measured weight per pole: 214g/ 7.5 oz
Measured weight rubber tips: 8 g / 0.2 oz
Measured weight small basket: 10 g / 0.3 oz
Measured weight big basket: 23 g / 0.8 oz
Segments: 3
Shaft diameters: 18,16,14mm
Shaft Material: 100% carbon fiber, made in USA
Grip: Wood color EVA, Made in China
Strap: Polyester and microfiber, Made in China
Locking system: Friction Quick Lock, Made in USA
Tip: Easy Tip and carbide tip in plastic housing, Made in China
Accessories: Rubber tips, Mud baskets, Snow baskets
Performance
As I put the Diorite Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles to the test in various outdoor settings, their performance left a lasting impression. I used them on a week-long fastpacking trip in the Dolomites and as running poles on my local trails. Here's my take on how these poles measure up:
The handle of the poles immediately stood out for its comfort. It strikes the right balance – soft to the touch without feeling too squishy. This attribute is especially crucial during long trips when a comfortable grip can make all the difference.
What truly sets these trekking poles apart is their remarkable usable length, extending up to 158 cm. This feature caters to taller individuals exceptionally well and also makes them an ideal choice for supporting trekking pole tents. In fact, these poles boast one of the longest usable lengths I've encountered.
Despite their considerable length, the Diorite poles surprised me with their relatively low swing weight. They felt well-balanced and were easy to maneuver. Due to their length even when collapsed, I held them in my hands during trail runs. It’s not so easy and comfortable to attach them to one of my running vests. For that reason I prefer Z-Pole style folding poles for longer runs.
The friction quick lock system, complemented by thumb screws for tool-free adjustments, is a practical addition. It allows for on-the-fly modifications, which is invaluable when tackling ever-changing terrain during a trek.
One minor issue I encountered was the friction lock lever, which had some sharp edges. Sometimes I touched the levers with my legs and the sharp edges were quite uncomfortable. However, this was easily remedied by lightly sanding it down with a nail file, and it didn't significantly affect the overall performance.
The carbide tip on these poles proved to be exceptional, offering a secure grip on stones, even in wet conditions. This feature provided the stability needed for traversing rocky terrains with confidence.
Surprisingly for carbon fiber poles, these Diorite trekking poles felt incredibly sturdy and stable. The combination of larger diameter tubes and overlapping sections adds to their durability, making them reliable companions on challenging trails.
Diorite includes both small and large baskets, along with rubber tips, adds to the poles' versatility, ensuring they can adapt to various terrains and conditions. Including all the options also adds to the poles' value.
Diorite's sustainability and easy part repair replacement approach deserves praise. Most parts of these poles can be easily ordered directly from their website, from thumb screws to handles or pole sections. This eco-conscious approach aligns well with the values of environmentally aware trekkers.
While the hand strap is undeniably comfortable, I personally lean toward a thinner and lighter strap to reduce weight and bulk. However, this is a minor preference and may vary from person to person.
Conclusion
In summary, the Diorite Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles deliver an outstanding performance that focuses on comfort, versatility, and sustainability. While there may be minor adjustments that some users prefer, these poles undoubtedly make for a dependable companion for trekkers, especially those who appreciate longer usable lengths and an eco-friendly ethos.
Available at Diorite HERE
Tester Profile
Markus Zinkl: I’m 33 years old and live in a small village in Bavaria, Germany. I started hiking and backpacking 5-6 years ago. Coming from trail running and with light and fast in mind, I started hiking and fast packing with ultralight gear. Over the years I tried and tested a lot of gear, always in search of weight savings. Although still trying to stay out of the ultralight rabbit hole. I spend most of my days off from work on the trail, with at least one 2-3 week thru-hike. Among the more well known trails I have hiked over the last few years are the GR221, WHR (Walker’s Haute Route), TMB (Tour du Mont Blanc), TC (Tour du Cervin-Matterhorn) and Via Alpina Switzerland. As you probably notice by now, I’m at home in the mountains. So if I’m not running or thru-hiking a longer trail, I’m probably somewhere in the Alps checking out some shorter trails.
The products that are the basis of this test were provided to us free of charge by Diorite. The opinions presented are our own.
We welcome comments and questions in the comments section below.
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