REI Co-op
Flash Carbon Women's Trekking Poles
Best lightweight stability for hikers with smaller hands.
These ultralight trekking poles are designed specifically for women, prioritizing weight savings above all else. Featuring a carbon fiber shaft and comfortable EVA foam grips, they are an excellent choice for day hikers and those tackling weekend trips. While they offer impressive portability and a featherweight feel, the locking mechanisms can be finicky, and the overall durability is lower compared to heavier, more robust alternatives. They are best suited for lighter loads and well-maintained trails rather than technical, off-trail expeditions.
$139.00
More Flash Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
208
/ 371
#208 in Hiking Poles
Price vs Category Average
+64%
Above average
Weight
13.5
/ ounces
Who it's for
- Long-distance hikers looking to minimize pack and hand weight
- Women seeking a secure grip tailored to smaller hand sizes
- Trekkers who need quick, dependable height adjustments on variable terrain
Who should skip it
- Rugged adventurers frequently navigating deep rock talus or heavy brush
- Budget-conscious hikers who prioritize cost savings over weight reduction
- Hikers with joint sensitivity who prefer a softer, dampened feel
Performance breakdown
Weight Efficiency
Featherweight construction makes these nearly unnoticeable during long ascents.
Portability
Telescoping design packs down easily for quick stowing on backpacks.
Grip Comfort
EVA foam handles provide a soft, sweat-wicking hold for all-day comfort.
Locking Reliability
Powerlock mechanism can be finicky and requires occasional manual adjustment.
Structural Durability
Carbon fiber is lightweight but prone to snapping under heavy stress.
Terrain Versatility
Best suited for maintained trails rather than rugged, technical off-trail terrain.
Key Specs
Weight
13.5 ounces
Material
Carbon fiber
Grip Material
EVA foam
Locking Mechanism
Powerlock 3.0 lever
Collapsed Length
23 inches
Number of Sections
3
Intended Activity
Day hiking, peak bagging, weekend backpacking
Know before you buy
No, these are designed primarily for well-maintained trails. Because they prioritize an ultralight carbon fiber construction, they are less durable than heavier, more robust poles and may not hold up to the abuse of technical, off-trail expeditions.
The Flash Carbon poles feature a three-section telescoping design that collapses down to 23 inches. This makes them easy to strap to the side of most daypacks or weekend backpacks.
The Powerlock 3.0 is designed for quick adjustments, but it can be finicky compared to other locking systems. It is important to ensure the lever is fully engaged before putting your weight on the poles to prevent slippage.
Yes, the geometry and grip sizing are tailored for women. They offer a comfortable fit for smaller hands and are balanced to reduce fatigue over long days on the trail.
The pair weighs 13.5 ounces. This ultralight weight makes them an excellent choice for hikers who want to save energy on long treks, though it does come at the expense of maximum durability.
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$139