The Black Diamond Pursuit Trekking Poles deliver exceptional durability and comfort, with reviewers praising their ability to last through demanding 2,000-mile trails like the Continental Divide. The cork grips are noted for comfort and adaptability, while the integrated hex tool provides convenient maintenance. However, some users reported that the measurement markings wear off quickly and the FlickLock+ mechanism can occasionally unlatch during use. These poles are ideal for generalist hikers and backpackers seeking reliability and comfort, but may not suit ultralight enthusiasts or those prioritizing minimal weight.
Full review
Comfort and Grip Design
The Black Diamond Pursuit trekking poles excel in comfort, with cork grips that provide a superior feel for extended use. According to Better Trail's review, the cork handles 'molded to my hands' over time, becoming increasingly comfortable as the material softens. The grips feature a subtle ergonomic shape that maintains hands in a neutral position, reducing fatigue during long hikes. The Great Outdoors' Steph Wetherell noted that the cork material was preferable to foam, especially when hands were sweaty on hot days or during climbs. The poles include a foam extension grip made from algae-infused Bloom foam, which is more sustainable than standard foam. Additionally, the wrist strap is described as 'incredibly comfortable to wear' and 'plush next to the skin' by Better Trail's testers. The design accommodates different hand sizes with S/M and M/L options, with the smaller grip size in the S/M model fitting users with unisex M hands well, according to Wetherell's testing in the Brecon Beacons and South West England.
Durability and Construction
Black Diamond Pursuit poles demonstrate exceptional durability, with one reviewer noting they 'lasted our tester the entire length of the Continental Divide Trail—more than 2,000 miles all told—and is still going strong.' The aluminum construction proved resilient through technical scrambles and steep downhills, withstanding heavy use without breaking or bending. The poles were even used to stop falls and never showed signs of damage. However, some minor build quality issues were noted: the painted length markings wore off quickly, requiring users to scratch in their measurements. The FlickLock+ lever locks, while large and easy to use, showed reliability issues after extended use, with all four locks beginning to slip after a month of regular use. This is considered typical for lever locks, similar to those found on Leki and REI poles. Despite this, the poles include an integrated hex tool inside one of the segments, allowing for in-field adjustments without carrying a separate tool.
Weight and Performance
The Pursuit trekking poles weigh 1 pound 1.4 ounces for the S/M size, placing them in the middle of the pack for trekking poles. This is slightly heavier than some ultralight options like Black Diamond's Distance Carbon Z, which can shave off more than six ounces. However, Better Trail's review indicates that for backpackers seeking a balance between weight and durability, the Pursuit represents a 'real sweet spot.' The aluminum construction provides sufficient stiffness for stability, particularly in rugged terrain, with the reviewer noting they 'prefer a stiff pole for stability, especially when being aggressive in rugged and uneven terrain.' The poles' weight was not considered a significant drawback by most reviewers, though mountain runners and fast packers looking to minimize ounces may find them too heavy. CleverHiker's review states the poles weigh 'just 16 ounces per pair,' which aligns with the aluminum specification but suggests a potential discrepancy in measurement or presentation across different sources.
Adjustability and Locking Mechanism
The FlickLock+ lever lock system on the Pursuit poles is described as 'large and easy to use,' with Better Trail's testers noting it's 'above average, but not perfect.' The locking mechanism allows for easy adjustment using an integrated hex tool, which is a significant advantage for field maintenance. The tool is nestled inside one of the pole segments, eliminating the need to carry a separate Allen wrench. However, the locks did begin to slip after extended use, with all four locks showing signs of loosening after a month of regular hiking. This is considered a common issue with lever locks, as noted by multiple reviewers. The locking system's performance was described as 'very easy to use' by The Great Outdoors' Steph Wetherell, who also appreciated the ease of adjusting tightness with the hex tool. The poles' adjustability ranges from 39.4 to 49.2 inches, with a collapsed length of 24.4 inches, making them suitable for various hiking conditions and pack sizes.
Features and Value Proposition
The Pursuit trekking poles include several thoughtful features that enhance their value. The poles come with both small trekking baskets and larger snow baskets, both of which are easy to fit and remove. These baskets sit a good distance up the pole, improving performance in different conditions. The carbide tip is replaceable, making these poles a good long-term investment. The poles also include a built-in hex tool for adjustments, reducing the need to carry additional equipment. According to Better Trail, the poles are 'one of the most sustainable trekking poles made with algae-infused foam and replaceable parts.' The wrist strap is described as 'well-padded' and 'easy to adjust' by the same source. The poles are available in two color options: Charcoal-Octane and Charcoal-Foam Green, with the latter offering a more budget-friendly alternative at $118.97. The Great Outdoors' Steph Wetherell noted that the poles are 'not as lightweight as some' but 'make up for the weight in quality.' The integrated design features and replaceable components contribute to the poles' longevity and environmental considerations.
Where It Falls Short
Despite their many strengths, the Black Diamond Pursuit trekking poles have notable drawbacks. The primary concern is the wear on the painted length markings, which quickly become illegible and require users to scratch in their measurements. This issue was specifically noted by Better Trail's testers, who found that 'the only build quality issue that I noticed was the painted length markings wearing off pretty quickly.' Additionally, while the FlickLock+ lever locks are large and easy to use, they are not completely reliable, with all four locks beginning to slip after extended use. This is a common limitation with lever locks, but it still represents a functional compromise. The poles' weight, while acceptable for most users, may be too much for mountain runners or fast packers who are strictly counting ounces. The aluminum construction, while durable, does not offer the ultralight performance that some users might seek. The Great Outdoors' review also notes that while the poles are 'not as lightweight as some,' they 'make up for the weight in quality,' suggesting that the trade-off may not be suitable for all users.
Who It's Best For
The Black Diamond Pursuit trekking poles are ideal for generalist hikers and backpackers seeking a durable, comfortable, and versatile option. They are particularly well-suited for users who hike long distances and need reliable performance in rugged terrain. The poles' comfort features, including the cork grips and well-padded wrist strap, make them excellent for extended use. According to Better Trail, 'Mountain runners, fast packers, and ounce counters will want to look elsewhere,' suggesting that users prioritizing ultralight gear should consider alternatives. The poles' durability makes them excellent for long-distance trails like the Continental Divide Trail, where they 'lasted our tester the entire length of the Continental Divide Trail—more than 2,000 miles all told—and is still going strong.' The integrated hex tool and replaceable components make them ideal for users who value long-term investment and field maintenance. The Great Outdoors' Steph Wetherell recommends the poles for 'hikers who use trekking poles a lot when walking, and always uses them on ascents and descents, especially steep hills.' The poles are also suitable for users who hike in various weather conditions, including snowy terrain, thanks to the included snow baskets.
Comparison to Alternatives
When compared to similar trekking poles, the Black Diamond Pursuit sits in the middle of the pack in terms of weight but excels in durability and comfort. The REI Co-op Traverse is noted as being a couple of ounces heavier at 1 pound 2.5 ounces for the smallest size, while Leki's Makalu Cork Lite is just slightly lighter than the Pursuit but still over an ounce heavier than the aluminum option. The ultralight Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z offers significant weight savings but lacks the durability and comfort features of the Pursuit. The Pursuit's aluminum construction provides a balance between weight and strength that many users find acceptable. According to CleverHiker, the poles earned a #1 ranking for best trekking poles for their strong performance, handling everything from mogul runs to off-trail hikes with ease. The Great Outdoors' review also notes that while the poles are 'not as lightweight as some,' they 'make up for the weight in quality.' The Pursuit's unique features, such as the integrated hex tool and replaceable components, distinguish it from competitors like Leki and REI, which may require separate tools for adjustments or lack the same level of sustainability with algae-infused foam and replaceable parts.
Strengths
- +Comfortable cork grips with ergonomic shape that mold to hands over time
- +Durable aluminum construction that survived over 2,000 miles on the Continental Divide Trail
- +Integrated hex tool for in-field adjustments without carrying a separate tool
- +Wide range of adjustability with FlickLock+ lever mechanism
Watch-outs
- −Measurement markings on the pole wear out quickly
- −Locking mechanisms can catch on clothing and tree limbs, and may unlatch during use
How it compares
The Black Diamond Pursuit poles surpass the Cascade Mountain Tech in durability and comfort, with their integrated hex tool and reliable FlickLock+ mechanism. While the MSR DynaLock Ascent offers better packability and the Leki Black Series provides more ergonomic design, the Pursuit poles excel in all-around reliability and comfort, especially on long trails. The Alpine Carbon poles are more durable but significantly more expensive, while the Trail Back model is more affordable but lacks the comfort and adjustability of the Pursuit.
Who this is for
At a glance: generalist backpackers.
Why you’d buy the Black Diamond Pursuit Trekking Poles
- Comfortable cork grips with ergonomic shape that mold to hands over time.
- Durable aluminum construction that survived over 2,000 miles on the Continental Divide Trail.
- Integrated hex tool for in-field adjustments without carrying a separate tool.
Why you’d skip it
- Measurement markings on the pole wear out quickly.
- Locking mechanisms can catch on clothing and tree limbs, and may unlatch during use.
Rating sources
Our 4.7 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
