Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles Review

What Makes Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles Stand Out?

The Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles are Black Diamond’s premium offering for hikers and backpackers prioritizing weight savings and comfort. These aren’t your grandpa’s clunky aluminum poles; they represent a leap forward with their carbon fiber construction, ergonomic cork grips, and collapsible Z-pole design. These features promise an unparalleled experience on the trail, but does it deliver on that promise?

I was looking for a pole system that wouldn’t weigh me down on multi-day backpacking trips in the Sierra Nevada. My old adjustable aluminum poles were functional, but heavy and bulky, often feeling like anchors on steep ascents. I needed something significantly lighter and more packable, without sacrificing stability and comfort.

Upon unboxing the Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles, I was immediately struck by their featherlight feel. The carbon fiber shafts look sleek and modern, and the cork grips feel premium to the touch. The Z-pole design seemed intuitive and easy to deploy, a welcome change from the sometimes-fussy adjustments of my old poles.

I considered the Leki Micro Vario Carbon poles, renowned for their adjustability, and the Gossamer Gear LT5 trekking poles, favored by thru-hikers for their minimalist design. However, I opted for the Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles because they seemed to strike the best balance between weight, comfort, and durability for my specific needs. The Leki’s adjustability added weight I didn’t need, and the Gossamer Gear poles, while incredibly light, felt too fragile for the rocky terrain I often encounter.

My initial impression was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. The poles felt incredibly well-made and lightweight, exactly what I was looking for, but I was eager to see how they would perform under the demanding conditions of a real backpacking trip. Their Black Diamond pedigree suggested quality but the $199.95 price demanded stellar performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles on a three-day backpacking trip in the Desolation Wilderness of the Sierra Nevada. The terrain ranged from smooth, pine-needle-covered trails to steep, rocky ascents above the tree line. The poles were subjected to both dry conditions and a brief afternoon thunderstorm.

The poles performed admirably, providing excellent stability on the varied terrain. The cork grips remained comfortable even when wet from the rain, and the 5-degree tilt felt natural and reduced wrist fatigue. Deployment and collapse were quick and easy, even with gloves on. I experienced no issues with slippage or instability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple backpacking trips and day hikes, the Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles have held up remarkably well. There are a few minor scuffs on the lower sections of the carbon fiber shafts, but no signs of cracking or structural damage. The cork grips have molded nicely to my hands and show no signs of wear.

Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The speed cones have remained secure, and the Z-pole joints have not loosened. These poles have noticeably outperformed my previous aluminum poles in terms of weight, comfort, and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles

Specifications

• Carbon Construction: The pole shafts are constructed from carbon fiber, resulting in an incredibly lightweight and stiff pole. This reduces fatigue and provides efficient power transfer on uphill climbs.
• Z-Pole Fixed Length Construction with Speed-Cone Deployment: The Z-pole design allows for quick and easy deployment and collapse, making the poles highly packable. The speed-cone technology ensures secure and reliable joint connections.
• Ultralight Airmesh Strap: The airmesh straps are lightweight and breathable, providing a comfortable and secure fit. These straps minimize sweat and chafing, even during strenuous activity.
• Ergonomic Natural Cork Grip: The natural cork grips are ergonomically shaped for enhanced comfort and reduced fatigue. The cork material wicks moisture and conforms to the user’s hand over time.
• EVA Bloom Foam Grip Extension: The EVA Bloom foam grip extension provides an additional grip option for traversing steep slopes or navigating uneven terrain. This extension is made from recycled algae, making it an environmentally conscious choice.

Performance & Functionality

The Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles excel in their primary function: providing support and stability during hiking and backpacking. Their lightweight construction minimizes fatigue, allowing you to cover more ground with less effort. The ergonomic grips and straps further enhance comfort, even on long days.

The poles are exceptionally reliable and function exactly as intended. One minor weakness is the lack of adjustability; fixed-length poles may not be ideal for all users or terrain. They exceed expectations in terms of weight savings and comfort.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles is sleek and functional. The carbon fiber shafts look modern and the cork grips provide a touch of classic elegance. The poles are incredibly lightweight, making them a pleasure to use for extended periods.

The poles are user-friendly and require minimal setup. The Z-pole design is intuitive and easy to master, even for beginners.

Durability & Maintenance

The Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles appear to be quite durable, despite their lightweight construction. The carbon fiber shafts have held up well to regular use, and the cork grips are showing minimal signs of wear. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is all that is required to maintain the poles.

The pole tips are replaceable, extending the lifespan of the poles. Proper care and storage will ensure that these poles last for many years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles come with trekking baskets for use on soft surfaces like snow or sand. No significant customization options are available for fixed-length poles. Compatibility with other brands’ accessories is limited due to the fixed-length design, although replacement tips are readily available.

Pros and Cons of Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles

Who Should Buy Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles?

The Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles are perfect for thru-hikers, backpackers, and peak baggers who prioritize weight savings and comfort. They are an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade from heavier aluminum poles.

These poles may not be suitable for users who require adjustable-length poles for varying terrain or those on a tight budget. Skiers and snowboarders looking for poles for winter sports should also look elsewhere.

A must-have accessory is a set of replacement pole tips.

Conclusion on Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles

The Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles are a premium product that delivers on its promises. Their lightweight construction, ergonomic grips, and collapsible design make them a joy to use on the trail. While the fixed length and price point may be drawbacks for some, the overall performance and quality justify the investment.

The price of $199.95 is justified given the premium materials and features. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon Z Poles to anyone seeking a high-performance, lightweight trekking pole. Invest in your comfort and performance on the trail – you won’t regret it!