Andy Mossack reviews Komperdell Carbon Ultra Zero Comp Trekking Poles, the best lightest version yet.
Trail walking poles are often a subject of discussion for hikers. Are they really necessary, or are they just an excuse to make a good hike easier? I raised this question when I last reviewed the Komperdell FXP4 Approach Compact walking poles a few years ago. Celebrated by those in the know, Austrian based Komperdell is hands-down one of the world’s finest manufacturers of poles in all their forms, having been at it since 1922. They were the first to introduce self-deploying poles and still lead the world in lightweight pole innovation.
Whether you’re skiing down the famous Streif run, trekking over the Andes, or just walking the Yorkshire Dales, you can rest assured this family-owned manufacturer will have a pole that fits your needs.
Super lightweight
The new Komperdell Carbon Ultra Zero Comp is the latest version of their super light carbon trekking poles. Weighing in at 175g with a packed size of just 57cm, they are adjustable from 90-120cm which should suit all shapes and sizes and small enough to fit in a tightly packed rucksack or a carry-on suitcase.
Broken down into three sections of ultra-light carbon, these poles are fitted with Komperdell’s latest and strongest locks – Powerlock 3.0 – made from an anodized coated aluminium which means they are impervious to corrosion or extreme temperature changes. They simply click shut and stay shut until you need to unclip them again.
The straps are also deemed very important and not simply a device to keep the poles from dropping. These are a padded mesh which Komperdell calls airmesh, woven and padded for maximum comfort and breathability, which is said to avoid skin chaffing and wrist fatigue. They are also easily adjustable to your hand size.
Responsible Sustainability
These high-end poles also proudly show off Komperdell’s commitment to sustainability with the new Pro Trek 280 extended cork grips offering ergonomic, moisture-wicking cork efficiency over steep terrain in particular. No cheap rubber in sight here. Back at the factory in Monsee the zero-waste policy is front and centre, they even have a document you can download itemising each and every sustainable aspect.
But take it from me, sustainability is vitally important to the company. Every non-repairable returned pole (there is a no questions asked 3-year guarantee) is recycled, while the factory itself has a zero-waste production ethic together with a clean air policy that respects the lakes and mountains that surround it.
Road Testing
Whilst my previous poles were road tested in the Canadian Arctic summer, these were given a good test hiking over coal slag near Lens in France. Who knew coal pit waste could be converted into stunning hiking trails.
It was a perfect terrain, and the weather brutally hot during the unseasonal heatwave. The poles proved to be mightily helpful for helping me with traction and elevation while on the downward sections offering me stability over loose rubble. I didn’t need to wear gloves, the cork grips providing plenty of grip in spite of my sweaty hands.
All in all, a very satisfying outcome.
Which brings me back to my opening sentence. Do walking poles provide essential help or just a tool to make hiking easier. No doubting for me. A good hike was made all the more enjoyable with the stability I got from my Komperdell Carbon Ultra Zero Comp Trekking Poles. And with the no quibble 3-year guarantee, you can’t go wrong.
Tell me more about the Komperdell Carbon Ultra Zero Comp Trekking Poles
Komperdell Carbon Ultra Zero Comp Trekking Poles are available from Komperdell directly. £189.95 (excludes VAT and shipping).
E: sales@komperdell.com T: +43 6232 42010
All parts are guaranteed for three years with a no quibble free repair or replacement.
