• Overall Rating

  : 4 out of 5

Komperdell are based in Austria and synonymous with poles, whether they are for trekking or, more widely, snowsports. They have a great reputation for quality poles, and also provide a three year free repair service for any issues. The Komperdell FX Lite TI Vario poles are also suitable for a replacement tip, to extend the life of your poles.

They are a Z lock construction with a tensioned wire which means that when the velcro storage strap is released, the pole snaps into place. To collapse the pole, it’s slightly trickier with a couple of buttons and a pull to take the sections apart. The aluminium feels robust and strong but is a little bit heavier. As the poles don’t reduce to anything less than 115cm, I did find these the hardest to use, as with the length and the weight, I struggled to control the ends compared to the others in the test. These were the most likely to get caught in undergrowth or trip me up, but this is because I’m quite short!

Before the pole snaps into place. Credit: Kirsty Pallas

The adjustment is a lever lock but it does need a screwdriver to adjust the tension of the lever, which means it needs to be done before going out on the hill, or you need to carry a multitool of some kind! The handles are moulded foam and a generous length for multiple hand positions. The very bottom section is textured to keep your hand in place when out of the strap, and the strap is wide and comfortable webbing. They come with rubber tips and snow baskets, which are easily fitted. Overall, I struggled with these the most, however mostly due to my short height and their minimum length. Otherwise they are another great model from Komperdell.

How we tested

Kirsty is 154cm tall and always carries a pair of trekking poles with her across the Highlands in her role as a qualified Mountain Leader. All weights are taken from her own scales without rubber tips, and packed lengths are measured by Kirsty.