Easton Mountain Products CTR-65 ion Backcountry

VERDICT

I rarely bother to change my pole length while hiking, because I find even the simplest locking mechanisms too fiddly—but the SureLock eases on-the-fly adjustments. A unique trigger system lets you adjust this three-section aluminum pole with one hand: Holding and squeezing the handle like a syringe releases the lock and allows you to push (or pull) on the middle segment to adjust the length in five-centimeter increments. The collapsible bottom segment locks into one fixed length with a push-button mechanism. Dings: The relatively heavy swing weight gave it a sluggish feel when I was skiing downhill and the plastic grip gets slippery with sweat or rain.

BEST FOR

Hiking on terrain with frequent elevation changes

TESTER DATA

> Kelly Bastone (other tester: Kristin Hostetter)

> Duration Jan. to March

> Locales/conditions CO; 20℉ to 70℉; dry, muddy, and snowy trails

> “Just 23 inches when stowed, the TR-3 fits tidily onto a pack.”

THE SPECS

> Weight 19 oz./pair

> Price $150

> Infomsrgear.com

Ultimate backcountry trekking pole. CTR-65 ion features lightweight & durable all-carbon construction with two-tier adjustability. Set the perfect length with the patented Rock-Lock clamp and adjust on the fly to match changing terrain. The slim fit ion grip with extended gripping area and adjustable strap optimize durability and responsiveness.