Running poles ?

[molehill]

Cheers for that, I'm going to start having a proper look at some now. The very lightweight multi-section ones used by many ultra distance guys seem to be more for balance rather than having a bloody good shove to get up a hill, so not so sure about them now, maybe need something more substantial?
But not as substantial as Caz's ash pole on his Meiri round :w00t:

[Martyn P]

Matt, despite posts to the contrary on here, the Pacer poles appear to be the clear leaders in back to back tests by staff journo's in TGO magazine.
I've only used poles once. Had a go with my brother's set when we were crossing the Lairig Leacach in deep snow. Just couldn't get the co-ordination right and handed them back after less than 100 yds. Probably a tough situation for an introduction to such kit. Maybe should try again in a more benign situation.

Ian.

I've been having a good squint at all the pole reviews too. I think my mind is made up, it's going to be the Black Diamond UltraTrek "Z" poles .... they're a bit on the expensive side (I found a pair for 89.99) but from what I can tell they're worth it. I was talking to someone who used these on this year's UTMB and he said that they helped enormously and also keep your posture aligned. Anyone else used these?

[keswicksimon]

Well. How about that? I ordered a pair of these just this lunchtime. (and paid 89.99, not the RRP of £120).
Having used Leki Makulu Titanium ones many times over the years mostly when backpacking, I've bought the Black Diamond ones to assist on the L100.
Before buying I had to decide which size. Using my Lekis on three long days on the route, and switching between 110 and 120cm, I finally plumped for the 110cm. It was a difficult decision to make as for backpacking I usually have them set at 120cm.
My advice to anyone thinking about buying is, experiment first to assess correct length and to think about stowage.
If you've never used poles before, get them sooner rather than later to allow your arms and shoulders to get strong enough to be useful. And..
You may also find they cause a slightly different gait thus using muscles not used to being so used.

[keswicksimon]

So my poles arrived and when I got them out of the packet and went to use them I found the wrist straps were too small ( inside they are marked S/M ) and I hadn't been asked to specify size.
I emailed the seller and they said to return them in 100% re-saleable condition. I had thrown some of the packaging away so I can't.
According to the manual, straps are easily replaceable but nowhere seems to sell them. Ugh!
Fortunately,using a packaging strap that came with them, I can extend the velcro with a little bit of home sewing (well the wife will).
Very frustrating.

[MorganW]

Raid Light poles for me. I've used these over quite a few Continental ultras these last 3 years or so. Tried, tested and trusted.

I did try out the BD Z poles but didn't get on with the handles generally; so sold these on to someone locally. Suspect I had them too long also at 130 cms.

The big pluses for the RLs are the handle material which absorbs sweat for hours on end no problem (which the BD handles don't) and the angle that the grip is set at. It tilts slightly forward and seems to lessen the wrist strain for me over long periods of use.

Easy to get up and down and to carry.

As ever, each to their own.

[Alexandra]

So my poles arrived and when I got them out of the packet and went to use them I found the wrist straps were too small ( inside they are marked S/M ) and I hadn't been asked to specify size.
I emailed the seller and they said to return them in 100% re-saleable condition. I had thrown some of the packaging away so I can't.
According to the manual, straps are easily replaceable but nowhere seems to sell them. Ugh!
Fortunately,using a packaging strap that came with them, I can extend the velcro with a little bit of home sewing (well the wife will).
Very frustrating.

This is one way the Xenon Trek Camp poles I posted about above are superior, with their adjustable wrist loops.

[Boy Wonder]

S/M wrist straps... are you sure that you've actually bought walking poles and not something more 'specialised'?!

[Happy on the hills]

But not as substantial as Caz's ash pole on his Meiri round :w00t:

I'm not sure what you mean Moley?:thumbup: I think Sam did an excellent job of whittling my walking pole. You could pay hunderds for a custom made pole these days!!! In fact I still have it safe and sound....... for the next meiri contender!:w00t:

[Jules B]

Keswicksimon - worth contacting First Ascent at Matlock http://www.firstascent.co.uk/ - they're the Black Diamond UK distributor and I've found them to be a really good set of guys. If they can help you out I bet they will.

Jules.