We gave our Review Team one job:
Find the best and most popular products and review them. Our review team always considers durability, price, quality, and value in their reviews.
Where to buy:
Above we praised several models of alpine poles for their practicality and simple function, the Black Diamond Traverse has that same simple attitude applied in a backcountry context. Built around a solid 16mm aluminum shaft, it’s on the heavier side of the touring spectrum. But it compensates for this with its ability to absorb sustained alpine abuse.
Weight aside, the Traverse isn’t without its issues, though these are similarly symptomatic of its robust build. As a whole, the Traverse is an excellent entry point for anyone looking at touring poles, as well as a good option for someone in search of a hard-working piece of gear.
We still haven’t mentioned the price. While the MSR DynaLock Trail listed below is this season’s winner for the lowest price tag, the Traverse is nonetheless a very reasonably priced adjustable ski.
Coupled with serious structural integrity stretched over the course of seasons, the traverse has considerable value.
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
High degree of structural integrity worthy of a few seasons -
Reasonable price for a touring pole
-
Great entry point for anyone in need of a set of backcountry poles
Things we don't like:
On the heavier end of the touring spectrum- Only comes with one set of baskets, albeit their powder baskets
On the heavier end of the touring spectrumWhere to buy:
Specs & Features
- 16mm/14mm aluminum adjustable pole
- Steel tips
- Soft rubber touring grip with extended texture choke-up grips
- Highly adjustable touring strap
- FlinkLock extension adjustments
- Powder baskets
Related Reviews
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
High degree of structural integrity worthy of a few seasons
-
Reasonable price for a touring pole
-
Great entry point for anyone in need of a set of backcountry poles
Things we don't like:
- On the heavier end of the touring spectrum
- Only comes with one set of baskets, albeit their powder baskets
Comments