ZPacks Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles Review

Article by Markus Zinkl 

ZPacks Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles ($99.95)

Introduction

As an avid hiker always on the lookout for gear that strikes the perfect balance between weight and functionality, I recently got my hands on the ZPacks Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles. After putting them through their paces on various trails, here are my thoughts.

Weight and Build

These poles are impressively light. The foam grip version weighs in at just 7.2 ounces (205 grams) per pole, including the wrist strap and basket. If you ditch the basket and rubber tip, they’re even lighter at 6.3 oz ( 180 grams). The optional road tip and basket adds a mere 0.4 ounces (12 grams). The carbon fiber shaft is a big win for strength and keeping the weight down.

Length and Adjustability

The poles extend up to 54 inches (137 cm) to the ‘stop’ line, and you can push them to 56 inches (142 cm) for pitching tents. When collapsed, they’re a compact 24.5 inches (62 cm), making them easy to pack. The sturdy clasp locks are a nice touch, allowing for easy hand-tightening and height adjustments.

Comfort and Grip

The foam grip is super comfortable and does a great job of absorbing sweat.

It’s also extended, which is handy for shifting your hand down on steep inclines. 

The padded wrist strap adds to the comfort, making long hikes more bearable.

Single Pole Use

While most trekking poles are sold in pairs, some hikers prefer using just one. For $59.95, the ZPacks Carbon Fiber pole is a solid choice for those who like to keep one hand free for eating, taking photos, or navigating. It’s a great way to cut down on weight without going to extremes. Using a single pole does come with some trade-offs. You lose a bit of stability on rough or steep terrain, and some trekking pole-supported tents require two poles to set up. However, for solo hikers using ultralight tents, these poles are a good fit or you just get two of them.

Comparisons

ZPacks sells these poles in pairs for $100, but they’re heavier at 410g / 14.4 oz for 2 poles than several alternatives. For example, Black Diamond’s Distance Carbon Z poles weigh 281g / 9.9 ounces for two poles. Leki’s Ultratrail FX.One weigh 354g / 12.5 ounces for two poles. ZPacks’ own Minimalist Trekking Pole is lighter at 167g / 5.9 ounces per pole, but the 2023 version had less reliable twist locks. This has since been addressed in the 2024 version and it now uses clasp locks. Gossamer Gear’s LT5 is another option and light at 150 g / 5.3 oz per pole, though it’s quite a bit pricier at $195. Durston Iceline pole (RTR Review) checks in the lightest at 126g / 4.4 oz  per pole although it has no strap. 

Overall

These poles are well-rounded and sturdy, with two flip locks for easy adjustability. They’re not the lightest on the market, but they strike a good balance between weight, strength and price. I particularly like that you are able to buy an individual pole or even replacement section.  If you’re looking for a reliable pole to support an ultralight tent, the ZPacks Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are a solid choice. They’re designed for on-trail use but can handle off-trail adventures too.

ZPacks Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are available at ZPacks here: ZPacks 

Tester Profile

Markus Zinkl: I’m 34 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.

We welcome comments and questions in the comments section.

Samples were provided at no charge for review purposes. RoadTrail Run has affiliate partnerships and may earn commission on products purchased via shopping links in this article. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content. The opinions herein are entirely the authors'.

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