Black Diamond Distance FLZ Carbon Review (2026)

Name: Black Diamond Distance FLZ Carbon
Brand: Black Diamond
Price: 170.00 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 9.1 (1 reviews)

The Distance FLZ is the smartest design for hikers who do not want to use poles the entire time. Z-fold carbon collapses to 13 inches and fits in the side pocket of almost any pack, so you can put them away on flats and deploy for descents or a technical section. At 8.7oz for the pair there is a weight penalty versus fixed-length, but the packability is genuinely useful. The FlickLock Pro adjustment is the best external lock mechanism

Check price at Black Diamond →

$170 retail

9.1

/10

TrailCraft Score

What Works

Collapses to 13in — genuine packability
FlickLock Pro is reliable and tool-free
Adjustable length useful for varied terrain
Strong brand with good track record

Limitations

3-year warranty vs lifetime on our top picks
Z-fold slightly less rigid than fixed carbon
Foam handle less comfortable than cork on very long days

Specifications

Weight8.7 oz / 246g pair

MaterialCarbon fiber

Type3-section Z-fold

HandleEVA foam

LockFlickLock Pro

Collapsed Length13 in / 33cm

Warranty3 Years

Length Range100-125cm adjustable

Score Breakdown

Trail Performance

9.3

Build Quality

9.0

Weight

9.1

Value for Money

9.0

Brand & Warranty

8.8

What Sets It Apart

For regular hiking, fixed poles may be more appropriate, but the FLZ is the better choice for trail running or any fast-and-light activity.

Collapses to 13 inches — for hikers who want poles in the bag, not always in hand

Who This Is For

The Black Diamond Distance FLZ Carbon ranks #2 of 4 in this category and is a solid pick with some tradeoffs worth knowing. It is well-suited for hikers and campers who want Black Diamond's Distance FLZ folds into three sections to 13 inches. The pole of choice for trail runners and fast hikers who only deploy poles when they need them, and it performs best when used for the purpose it was designed around.

A note on pricing and links: Prices listed are current as of April 2026 and may change. Always verify before buying. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you buy through them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps fund the testing. It does not change my ranking.

How It Compares

Within this category, the BD Distance FLZ Carbon ranks #2 out of 4 products tested. It is a solid choice with clear strengths, but the top-ranked options have specific advantages worth reading before deciding.

See the full comparison

All 4 options in this category ranked side by side — specs, scores, and pricing.

View Full Category Comparison →

Common Questions

What is the difference between Z-fold and telescoping poles?

Z-fold collapses by folding in thirds — faster to pack and deploy, slightly less rigid. Telescoping is stiffer and offers more length adjustment. For technical hiking, telescoping. For trail running, Z-fold.

Can the FLZ handle rocky scrambling?

Better than fixed carbon can. The Z-fold mechanism handles lateral force better than a single carbon tube.

Does Black Diamond have a good warranty process?

, yes — straightforward for a company their size.