The Black Diamond Trail Back trekking poles offer reliable performance at an affordable price point. Reviewers noted its solid build quality and user-friendly FlickLock adjustments, calling it a budget-friendly workhorse. While it lacks the hand-feel of higher-end cork options and has rough foam grips that don't wick moisture well, it delivers good durability for its price. The inclusion of both trekking and snow baskets adds value for variable terrain use. It's best suited for casual hikers and weekend backpackers who prioritize function over premium features.
Full review
Reliable Build Quality
Black Diamond Trail Back trekking poles deliver robust construction that stands up well to regular use, especially when compared to lighter carbon alternatives. The 7075 aluminum shafts are notably more impact-resistant than carbon models, which is particularly important for hikers who encounter rough terrain or frequent falls. According to Better Trail, the aluminum construction offers better torsional stress resistance, making these poles suitable for day trippers and weekend backpackers who want reliability without spending a fortune. However, the build quality does come with tradeoffs. The plastic FlickLocks, while functional, are not as durable as the premium aluminum versions found on higher-end models like the Alpine Carbon Cork. RTINGS noted that these poles should hold up to years of regular use, but heavy users or those heading into rougher terrain may want to consider upgrading for added peace of mind. The poles' dual-density EVA foam grips provide a step up from the cheapest options, offering better comfort than typical budget foam but still falling short of cork in terms of moisture management and hand feel.
The poles are designed with a three-section telescoping mechanism that allows for easy adjustment and compact storage. The FlickLock system, while plastic, functions reliably and is praised for its ease of use. As noted by Hikers Hangout, the FlickLock® system allows for quick adjustments on the fly, with users able to open the locks, adjust the height, and close them without difficulty. The poles' collapsible design results in a 24.2-inch collapsed length, which is relatively compact for a telescoping pole but still feels a bit too long to comfortably stash in a daypack, according to Better Trail. The poles also come with both trekking and snow baskets out of the box, providing four-season versatility that adds real value for hikers planning to hike in variable conditions.
Adjustment and User Experience
The FlickLock adjustment system is one of the Trail Back's strongest features, offering a user-friendly way to modify pole length without the hassle of twist locks or flimsy hardware. According to Better Trail, this system is one of the most trusted designs in the game, simple, quick, and secure. The system functions well even in cold conditions, though the plastic components may be more prone to wear over time compared to premium aluminum versions found on higher-end models. Hikers Hangout praised the ease of adjusting pole height, noting that the system allows for adjustments to be made on the fly, even while hiking. The poles also feature height markers printed directly on the legs, which serve as a guide when setting up from the collapsed position. Users can easily adjust the poles to their preferred height and they stay locked in position without sliding down during use, as confirmed by multiple reviewers.
Comfort remains a mixed bag for the Trail Back. The EVA foam grips are a step up from the cheapest options and offer a few inches of extension down the shaft—more than competitors like the REI Co-op Trailmade and Swiftland TT—but they’re not especially pleasant on long days. As noted by Better Trail, the foam is rough on palms and not great at wicking sweat, which made the grips feel slick and mildly abrasive when things got warm. Compared to cork grips—which mold better to your hands and manage moisture more effectively—the Trail Back's foam is clearly a cost-saving tradeoff. However, the adjustable wrist straps are soft, padded, and surprisingly comfortable, even after hours of use. CleverHiker reported that the straps are basic but comfortable, rounding out a surprisingly complete package for the price. The poles weigh 1 lb. 2.8 oz. per pair, which is relatively heavy for a budget model but still lighter than many carbon alternatives. The weight is noticeable during long hikes, potentially leading to arm fatigue, though this is expected for a pole designed more for casual hiking and backpacking than high-mileage days.
Performance in Real-World Conditions
In real-world testing, the Black Diamond Trail Back performs reliably across various hiking conditions, particularly excelling in stability and durability. The aluminum shafts handle impact well, and the poles maintain their structural integrity even under significant stress. Hikers who have used the Trail Back on challenging terrain, including glacier hikes and steep descents, report that the poles do not bend or bow out when supporting most of their body weight. The poles' ability to withstand abuse is particularly notable for a budget-friendly model. Better Trail noted that these poles impressed with their solid build, user-friendly FlickLock adjustments, and rare-for-the-price four-season versatility. The inclusion of both trekking and snow baskets out of the box is a significant advantage, especially for hikers planning to use their poles in variable conditions. The powder baskets make these poles suitable for snowshoeing, which is a bonus for users who hike in winter conditions.
The poles' performance in different environments was tested by multiple reviewers, with consistent results across various hiking scenarios. The poles are also useful on icy trails, providing stability and support in slippery conditions. The collapsible design allows for easy storage, with a collapsed length of 24.2 inches. However, this length is still relatively long for a daypack, and users may find it challenging to stow them away comfortably. The poles' weight of 1 lb. 2.8 oz. per pair is noticeable during long hikes, potentially leading to arm fatigue, though this is expected for a pole designed more for casual hiking and backpacking than high-mileage days. The poles' performance in variable weather conditions was also noted, with the ability to handle both dry and wet environments effectively.
Value and Price Considerations
The Black Diamond Trail Back offers solid value for hikers who prioritize reliability and durability over premium features. At $99.95, the poles are priced competitively with other budget-friendly trekking poles, but they offer more features and better build quality than many of their counterparts. Better Trail gave the Trail Back a 4.2/5 rating, citing its affordable and practical build, more durable construction than lighter carbon offerings, and the inclusion of FlickLock adjustments. CleverHiker also praised the durability, calling it one of their top-performing trekking poles in this area. However, the poles' price point is still higher than basic alternatives, and some reviewers noted that the cost may not be justified for those who only use poles occasionally. The poles' price reflects their quality and features, including the inclusion of both trekking and snow baskets, which is not standard in similarly priced competitors like the Leki Spirit Lite or REI Co-op Trailmade.
Despite their relatively high price point, the Trail Back's value proposition is strengthened by its long-term durability and the inclusion of premium features. The poles are designed to be a workhorse for hikers who want a reliable, no-frills option without spending a fortune. The inclusion of both trekking and snow baskets out of the box is a significant value-add, especially for hikers planning to use their poles in variable conditions. The poles' ability to handle abuse and maintain performance over time makes them a worthwhile investment for regular users. However, hikers who are particularly budget-conscious or who only use poles occasionally might find more affordable alternatives that still meet their basic needs. The poles' price is justified by their build quality and features, but it may not be the best value for those who prioritize cost over durability.
Design and Portability
The Trail Back's design prioritizes function over form, with a straightforward approach that appeals to hikers who want reliable performance without unnecessary features. The poles feature a three-section telescoping mechanism that allows for easy adjustment and compact storage. The collapsed length of 24.2 inches is relatively compact for a telescoping pole, though it still feels a bit too long to comfortably stash in a daypack, according to Better Trail. The poles' collapsible design results in a 24.2-inch collapsed length, which is relatively compact for a telescoping pole but still feels a bit too long to comfortably stash in a daypack.
The poles' portability is a mixed bag, with the collapsed length being relatively compact but still not ideal for ultralight hikers. The poles' design allows for easy storage and transport, with the FlickLock system making it simple to adjust and pack away. However, the relatively long collapsed length means that hikers may need to adjust their pack loading strategies. The poles are also designed with a three-section telescoping mechanism that allows for easy adjustment and compact storage. The poles' weight of 1 lb. 2.8 oz. per pair is noticeable during long hikes, potentially leading to arm fatigue, though this is expected for a pole designed more for casual hiking and backpacking than high-mileage days. The poles' design is straightforward and functional, with no unnecessary bells and whistles that might add weight or complexity.
Where It Falls Short
The Trail Back's main shortcomings lie in its comfort and weight, which are typical tradeoffs for a budget-friendly model. The EVA foam grips, while better than the cheapest options, are not especially pleasant on long days and don't wick moisture well, making them feel slick and mildly abrasive when things get warm. Better Trail noted that the foam is rough on palms and not great at wicking sweat, which made the grips feel slick and mildly abrasive when things got warm. Compared to cork grips—which mold better to your hands and manage moisture more effectively—the Trail Back's foam is clearly a cost-saving tradeoff. The poles' weight of 1 lb. 2.8 oz. per pair is relatively heavy for a budget model, potentially leading to arm fatigue during long hikes. This is expected for a pole designed more for casual hiking and backpacking than high-mileage days.
Another notable drawback is the use of plastic FlickLocks instead of the more premium aluminum versions found on higher-end trekking poles. While they function well, they may be more prone to wear over time or in cold conditions. Better Trail noted that the plastic FlickLocks are not as durable as the premium aluminum versions found on higher-end models, and may be more prone to wear over time or in cold conditions. The poles' relatively long collapsed length of 24.2 inches is also a limitation for hikers who prioritize packability. The poles are also not as lightweight as carbon alternatives, which may be a concern for ultralight hikers. The poles' design is straightforward and functional, but lacks the refinement and premium feel of higher-end models. For hikers who plan to put in serious miles, the Trail Back may not be the best choice, and they might want to look at trekking poles with cork grips and more refined construction.
Who It's Best For
The Black Diamond Trail Back is ideal for casual hikers, weekend backpackers, and those who want a reliable, no-frills trekking pole without spending a fortune. It's particularly well-suited for hikers who prioritize durability and ease of use over premium features. The poles' four-season versatility, including the inclusion of both trekking and snow baskets, makes them a good choice for hikers planning to use their poles in variable conditions. The FlickLock adjustment system is user-friendly and reliable, making it easy to adjust pole length on the fly. For those who want a budget-friendly option that still delivers solid performance, the Trail Back is a strong recommendation. The poles are especially good for hikers who hike regularly and want a reliable, long-lasting option that can handle abuse without breaking down.
However, the Trail Back may not be the best choice for ultralight hikers or those who prioritize packability and weight above all else. The poles' weight of 1 lb. 2.8 oz. per pair is relatively heavy for a budget model, potentially leading to arm fatigue during long hikes. The relatively long collapsed length of 24.2 inches is also a limitation for hikers who prioritize packability. Hikers who plan to put in serious miles or who are particularly budget-conscious might want to look at alternatives that offer better weight-to-performance ratios. The poles are also not as comfortable as models with cork grips, which may be a concern for hikers who use their poles extensively. For hikers who want a reliable, no-frills option without spending a fortune, the Trail Back is a strong recommendation, but those who prioritize comfort and weight over durability may want to consider other options.
Comparison to Alternatives
Compared to similarly priced competitors like the REI Co-op Trailmade and Swiftland TT, the Black Diamond Trail Back stands out for its durability and inclusion of both trekking and snow baskets. Better Trail noted that the Trail Back's aluminum construction is more durable than lighter carbon offerings, and the FlickLock system is more reliable than twist-locks found on budget poles. The poles' four-season versatility is a significant advantage, as many competitors in this price range do not include snow baskets. The Trail Back also offers better build quality than many budget alternatives, with the aluminum shafts providing more impact resistance than carbon models. However, the poles are not as lightweight as some carbon alternatives, which may be a concern for ultralight hikers. The Trail Back's price point is competitive with other budget-friendly trekking poles, but the inclusion of premium features like the FlickLock system and dual baskets justifies the cost for regular users.
When compared to higher-end models like the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z or Alpine Carbon Cork, the Trail Back falls short in terms of weight and comfort but offers better value for budget-conscious hikers. The Distance Carbon Z weighs only 9.9 oz. per pair, making it significantly lighter than the Trail Back, but it also costs more and lacks the Trail Back's four-season versatility. The Alpine Carbon Cork offers superior comfort with cork grips and a more refined construction, but it's also more expensive. The Trail Back's plastic FlickLocks are not as durable as the aluminum versions found on higher-end models, but they still function well and are more reliable than twist-locks found on budget poles. For hikers who prioritize durability and features over premium comfort and weight, the Trail Back is a strong choice, but those who want the best of both worlds may want to consider upgrading to a higher-end model.
Strengths
- +Affordable and practical build
- +More durable than lighter carbon offerings
- +BD's Flicklocks make adjusting length a breeze
- +Includes both trekking and snow baskets out of the box
Watch-outs
- −Rough grips that don’t wick moisture very well
- −Relatively heavy at 1 lb. 2.8 oz. per pair
How it compares
The Black Diamond Trail Back offers a more affordable alternative to the Leki Black Series and Black Diamond Alpine Carbon poles, but lacks the comfort and ergonomic design of the Pursuit and Alpine models. While it's more durable than the Cascade Mountain Tech, it's heavier and has rougher grips compared to the Black Diamond Pursuit and Leki Black Series. The MSR DynaLock Ascent offers better packability, but the Trail Back provides a solid budget-friendly option for casual hikers who don't need premium features.
Who this is for
At a glance: budget-conscious weekend backpackers.
Why you’d buy the Black Diamond Trail Back
- Affordable and practical build.
- More durable than lighter carbon offerings.
- BD's Flicklocks make adjusting length a breeze.
Why you’d skip it
- Rough grips that don’t wick moisture very well.
- Relatively heavy at 1 lb. 2.8 oz. per pair.
Rating sources
Our 4.5 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
