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2008 Black Diamond Traverse | Reviewed On: April 13, 2009
Gear Reviews>>Ski Poles>>Adjustable>>Black Diamond TraversePRODUCT SUMMARY
By Ski Waheenie
THE GOOD
The Traverse poles are fully functional backcountry ski poles. My favorite thing about them is that they are very easy to adjust (even with one hand and even if that hand has a mitten on it!).
THE BAD
Poles are the most basic piece of gear. You don't really notice anything about them unless something is annoying or goes wrong. I've used the BD Traverse poles for 3 years, skiing almost every day, and they meet all of my expectations regarding poles. However, if you want to invest slightly more money, you'll be able to get poles that are more lightweight, more compact, stronger and can function as an emergency probe.
My only complaint is that the baskets get in the way of easily adjusting my Fritchi bindings from certain angles. This might have more to do with the bindings than the poles and I seem to be the only one who struggles. I've never used these poles to adjust dynafit or marker bindings, so please comment if you have experience!
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Never struggle with twist-tight adjustable poles again! The Black Diamond flick-lock system is simple to use and hassle free. The Traverse poles are an excellent and economical choice for backcountry skiers.
By Ski Waheenie
THE GOOD
The Traverse poles are fully functional backcountry ski poles. My favorite thing about them is that they are very easy to adjust (even with one hand and even if that hand has a mitten on it!).
THE BAD
Poles are the most basic piece of gear. You don't really notice anything about them unless something is annoying or goes wrong. I've used the BD Traverse poles for 3 years, skiing almost every day, and they meet all of my expectations regarding poles. However, if you want to invest slightly more money, you'll be able to get poles that are more lightweight, more compact, stronger and can function as an emergency probe.
My only complaint is that the baskets get in the way of easily adjusting my Fritchi bindings from certain angles. This might have more to do with the bindings than the poles and I seem to be the only one who struggles. I've never used these poles to adjust dynafit or marker bindings, so please comment if you have experience!
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Never struggle with twist-tight adjustable poles again! The Black Diamond flick-lock system is simple to use and hassle free. The Traverse poles are an excellent and economical choice for backcountry skiers.
OUR ADVICE
AVG USER ADVICE
Solid
AVG USER ADVICE
Solid
| VALUE | 4/5, Although $60 is on par with other adjustable poles I wish that they only cost $20! |
|---|---|
| COMFORT | 4/5 |
| MITTEN TEST | 5/5 |
| TESTING LOCATION | Jackson WY |
Gear Reviews>>Ski Poles>>Adjustable>>Black Diamond Traverse
PRODUCT SPECS
| AVG PRICE | $60.00 |
|---|---|
| SHAFT MATERIAL | Aluminum |
| GRIP MATERIAL | Dual-density rubber |
| TIP MATERIAL | Carbide |
| WEIGHT | 1lb 6 oz (625 g) per pair w/baskets |
| EXTENDABLE RANGE | 95cm-145 cm |
| ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM | Flick Lock |
| REPLACEABLE BASKETS? | Yes |
| NUMBER OF BASKETS INCLUDED | 1 pair |
| PROBE | No |
| BREAKAWAY STRAPS? | No |
| RECOMMENDED USE | Backcountry Skiing |
| WARRANTY | 1 year |
SIMILAR PRODUCTS
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WHIPP ET | Best in Test | $89.95 |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
OUTTA BOUND S POLES | Solid | $59.95 |
That's Our Opinion. What's Yours?
Dave Capasso wrote on 04/13/09 at 7:25:37 pm pst:
I've been using the BD Traverse pole for years while traveling in the "any" country. Definately solid for all conditions, and a fair price for all skill levels. If farming in the northeast, try shaving of the pole baskets top teeth for lessening "pucker" snag. A custom mod I learned from skiing legend Hardy Avery.
Their Advice
Solid
powderjunky wrote on 04/14/09 at 3:22:15 pm pst:
Right on dave, Thanks for the tip!
Their Advice
