Mountainsmith
Mountainsmith Carbonlite Pro Trekking Poles
Best lightweight support for long distance backpackers seeking joint relief.
Designed for long-distance stability, these trekking poles blend lightweight carbon fiber with the rugged durability of aircraft-grade aluminum. An integrated spring-loaded anti-shock system effectively absorbs impact during steep descents, significantly reducing strain on your joints. The versatile design features interchangeable baskets for seasonal transitions and replaceable tips to ensure reliable traction across varied terrain. With an extended foam grip, you can quickly adjust your hand position on inclines without needing to resize the poles. These reliable tools provide the perfect balance of weight savings and structural integrity for extended backcountry excursions and demanding hiking adventures.
$79.95
More Carbonlite Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
207
/ 370
#207 in Hiking Poles
Price vs Category Average
-6%
Below average
Material
7075
/ Carbon and Aluminum
Who it's for
- Long-distance hikers seeking to minimize pack weight and physical strain
- Four-season trekkers who need dependable performance in cold conditions
- Backpackers prioritizing hand comfort and grip versatility on steep trails
Who should skip it
- Rugged terrain explorers who frequently navigate deep talus or scree
- Budget-conscious hikers looking for a basic, entry-level trekking solution
- Hikers with joint sensitivity who require maximum impact absorption
Performance breakdown
Joint Impact Reduction
The integrated anti-shock system significantly dampens vibration on steep, jarring descents.
Weight-to-Strength Ratio
Hybrid carbon and aluminum construction offers impressive durability without unnecessary bulk.
Grip Versatility
Extended EVA foam allows instant hand-position changes on steep, uneven inclines.
Terrain Adaptability
Interchangeable baskets and tips handle everything from snowy peaks to rocky trails.
Locking Security
Traditional twist-locks are reliable but require more effort than modern lever-locks.
Packability
Non-foldable design is sturdy but takes up more space in your pack.
Key Specs
Material
Carbon and 7075 Aluminum
Locking Mechanism
Twist-lock
Grip Material
EVA Foam
Shock Absorption
Yes
Tip Material
Carbide and Rubber
Basket Type
Hiking and Snow
Included Tip Protectors
Yes
Intended Activity
Hiking and Backpacking
Know before you buy
By combining carbon fiber with 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum, these poles offer the best of both worlds: the lightweight, vibration-dampening feel of carbon and the high-impact durability of aluminum. This makes them sturdy enough for rocky, technical terrain while remaining light enough to prevent arm fatigue on long-distance hikes.
Yes, the poles come with interchangeable baskets. You can easily swap the smaller hiking baskets for the larger snow baskets to prevent the poles from sinking into deep snow.
The spring-loaded anti-shock system is designed to activate primarily during descents or when you encounter uneven, jarring terrain. On flat, stable ground, you likely won't notice the movement, but it will be there to absorb impact when you need it most.
The extended EVA foam grip allows you to quickly choke up on the pole when you hit a steep incline or switchback. Instead of stopping to adjust the pole length, you can simply slide your hand down to the lower grip section to maintain your rhythm.
Yes, the tips are replaceable. The poles come with both carbide and rubber tips, allowing you to switch them out depending on whether you are trekking on hard rock, dirt trails, or sensitive surfaces where you want to minimize impact.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.