Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Review (2026)

Name: Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
Brand: Black
Price: 219.95 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 9.1 (1 reviews)

Rather than the telescoping design used by most trekking poles, the Distance Carbon Z folds into three sections in a tent-pole-style 'Z' configuration, packing down to 13-17 inches depending on size — dramatically more compact than a telescoping pole for stowing in or on a pack. Combined with a 100% carbon fiber shaft, the result is one of the lightest trekking poles available, with a noticeably lower swing weight that testers say makes each step feel less taxing over long miles.

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$220 retail

9.1

/10

TrailCraft Score

What Works

Among the lightest trekking poles on the market, with a noticeably lower swing weight than aluminum alternatives
Z-fold design packs down to 13-17 inches, far more compact than telescoping poles for travel or when stowed
100% carbon fiber shaft keeps stiffness high despite the very low weight

Limitations

Fixed length only (no adjustment within a given size), unlike the adjustable Distance Carbon FLZ
Carbon fiber shafts can be more prone to catastrophic cracking under sideways stress than aluminum

Specifications

Weight (Pair)0.56-0.65 lb depending on size

Shaft100% carbon fiber

Fold Type3-section Z-fold

GripEVA foam

Sizes110, 115, 120, 125, 130cm (fixed length)

Packed Length13-17 in depending on size

Score Breakdown

Weight

9.6

Packability

9.4

Durability

8.6

Value

8.8

What Sets It Apart

The tradeoff for the fixed-length Z-fold design is a lack of adjustability — buyers need to select the correct fixed size (available in 110-130cm) rather than dialing in length on the trail, which matters for anyone using them to pitch a trekking-pole tent at a specific height.

A three-section Z-fold design that packs to 13-17 inches at barely half a pound per pair

Who This Is For

The Distance Carbon Z is right for: ultralight backpackers and trail runners who prioritize the lowest possible weight and packed size, fastpackers who need poles that stow small when not in use, and anyone who's already dialed in their correct fixed pole length and doesn't need on-trail adjustability.

A note on pricing and links: Prices are current as of July 2026. Some links are affiliate links.

How It Compares

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All 20 best ultralight gear in this category ranked side by side.

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Common Questions

Are Z-fold poles as strong as telescoping poles?

For typical trekking use, yes, though carbon fiber shafts in general are somewhat more prone to sudden cracking under strong sideways force compared to aluminum, a tradeoff most ultralight users accept for the weight and packability gains.

Can I adjust the length of the Distance Carbon Z on the trail?

No — these are fixed-length poles available in five sizes (110-130cm); for on-trail adjustability, Black Diamond's Distance Carbon FLZ offers a similar Z-fold design with an adjustable range.

Are these poles compatible with trekking-pole tents?

Yes, and their fixed length makes them straightforward for tents requiring a specific pole height, as long as the chosen size matches the tent's required pole length.