BLACK DIAMOND Trail Back Trekking Poles, Pair - Lightweight

In this review of the BLACK DIAMOND Trail Back trekking poles the bottom line is clear: these are a practical, trail-focused pair of poles for day hikers and backpackers who want durable, adjustable support without extra weight. The review finds the poles most appealing for people who value quick on-trail length changes and a comfortable grip for long miles. They stand out for their simple, reliable construction and the patented FlickLock adjustment that makes swapping lengths fast when terrain or pack load changes.

Key Features

• Aluminum construction: The poles use lightweight aluminum that balances durability and weight for regular trail use without fragile carbon tradeoffs.
• EVA foam grip with extension: The comfortable EVA grip plus an extended section lets hikers change hand positions easily when climbing or descending.
• Patented FlickLock technology: The FlickLock system delivers fast, secure length adjustments so users can adapt to steep or uneven terrain on the move.
• Adjustable webbing strap: The strap provides a secure hand connection and helps transfer load to the wrist for longer outings and better pole control.
• Four season flex tips and baskets: The included trekking baskets and flexible tips work across dirt, rock and snow-compatible conditions for multi-season use.

Who It's For

The Trail Back poles are aimed at day hikers, fast backpackers and anyone who wants a dependable, collapsible pole without the fragility of premium materials. Hikers who frequently change terrain will appreciate the quick FlickLock adjustments and the extended EVA grip for alternate hand positions.

These are not a specialty alpine tool for technical ice climbing or a lightweight racing option for ultralight thru-hikers who prioritize the lowest possible grams; those users may prefer carbon or dedicated ice-specific poles. For general trekking, trail fitness and multi-season recreational use, these poles are a sensible choice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Robust aluminum shaft offers a good balance of strength and weight for regular trail use.
• Comfortable EVA foam grip with extension improves comfort and gives multiple hand positions on climbs.
• FlickLock adjustment makes on-trail length changes quick and secure.
• Included trekking baskets and flex tips make the pair usable in varied seasonal conditions.

Cons

• Aluminum is slightly heavier than carbon alternatives, so ultralight hikers may look elsewhere.
• The design is trail-focused rather than purpose-built for technical ice climbing.

Specifications

Brand	Black Diamond Equipment
Material	Aluminum
Grip	EVA foam with extension
Adjustment system	Patented FlickLock
Strap	Adjustable webbing strap
Tips and baskets	4 season flex tips with trekking baskets included

Our Verdict

The BLACK DIAMOND Trail Back poles are a dependable, midweight choice for hikers who need quick adjustability and comfortable grips across varied trails. They offer solid value for day hikes and multi-season trekking where durability and ease of use matter more than shaving every gram.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these poles suitable for snow?
Yes, the poles include trekking baskets and flex tips that are compatible with snow use for general winter trekking.

Can the length be adjusted quickly on trail?
Yes, the patented FlickLock mechanism is designed for fast and secure on-trail adjustments.

Are these poles very heavy?
They use aluminum, which is slightly heavier than carbon but provides greater durability for regular trail use.