Ultralight support for outdoor ultras
On long trail runs over muddy moorland, poles are one of the best ways to reduce your chance of injury and reduce the strain on those all-important joints. There’s a reason outdoor ultras tend to be awash with walking poles, after all. And being purposefully designed to meet the needs of gruelling long-distance runs outdoors, the Distance Carbon FLZ Poles from Black Diamond are set to become the new standard. Created by the same team that brought us the epic Trail Trek and Explorer poles, the Distance Carbon FLZs are super lightweight and fully foldable running poles designed for snappy deployment when the going gets tough. Coming with an ultralight and recycled nylon strap, super comfortable EVA handle grips and interchangeable tips for varied use across different terrains, they set a new standard when it comes to running poles. And we can’t imagine a race without them.
- Shafts are made of 100% carbon fiber for increased strength and reduced weight
- Length is fully adjustable, with speed cone deployment enabling rapid assembly
- Soft-touch FlickLock+ allows for quick and easy adjustments
- Poles come pre-fitted with ultralight recycled nylon wrist straps
- Ergonomic handles provide a natural grip, with EVA covers that wick moisture and enhance breathability
- Tech tips are interchangeable, supporting both carbide and rubber tech tips (included)
- Equipped with removable low-profile baskets for versatility
- Unisex design available in 110, 125, and 140 cm lengths
| Collapsed Length | Series | Usable Length | Weight Per Pair | Size Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| [95-110 cm] 34 cm [110-125 cm] 37 cm [125-140 cm] 40 cm | Distance | [95-110 cm] 95-110 cm [110-125 cm] 110-125 cm [125-140 cm] 125-140 cm | [95-110cm] 312g [110-125cm] 340g [125-140cm] 368g | 95cm-140cm |
| Height Range | Suggested Trekking Pole Length | |
|---|---|---|
| IN | CM | |
| <4 ft 10 | <147 | 100 cm |
| 5 ft 1 | 155 | 105 cm |
| 5 ft 4 | 162.5 | 110 cm |
| 5 ft 7 | 170 | 115 cm |
| 5 ft 10 | 178 | 120 cm |
| 6 ft 1 | 185.5 | 125 cm |
| 6 ft 4 | 193 | 130 cm |
| 6 ft 7 | 200.5 | 135 cm |
How to measure:
On flat ground, the top of the trekking pole handle should be at waist or hip level and your elbow at 90 degrees (see illustration).
For Walking, hiking and backpacking: Stability and support matter most. Size up if you're right on a size cusp.
For Running: Uphill propulsion matters most. Size down if you're right on a size cusp.
- Recycled Materials: straps made from recycled materials
- Eco Initiatives: Black Diamond supports environmental not-for-profits, whilst making concerted efforts to use renewable energy and recycle as much waste as possible
The Black Diamond story began with a backyard anvil and a hammer, way back in 1957. The hammer in question was wielded by famous US climber Yvon Chouinard – the same man who would also go on to create outdoor brand Patagonia. Chouinard started hand-forging climbing hardware, selling steel pitons from the back of his car in the hallowed Yosemite Valley. Over the years, that fledgling business morphed into Black Diamond, with Chouinard eventually handing over the reins to an equally dedicated group of former employees.
Steeped in mountain heritage, the brand has continued to build on its legacy through innovative, user-driven design, built for demanding adventures on rock, ice and snow. Today, they make a lot more than merely hardware. Which means that Black Diamond isn’t just for climbers, mountaineers and skiers – their duffel bags, headlamps, lanterns and gloves are all much-loved by hikers, backpackers, campers and global travellers alike.
When it comes to sustainability, the brand also strives to stay true to Chouinard’s original ‘clean climbing’ ethos. As a brand, Black Diamond supports environmental not-for-profits, whilst making concerted efforts to use renewable energy and recycle as much waste as possible. But above all, they believe in sustainability through longevity, which means making kit that will stand the toughest test of all: time.
