Iceline RS Trekking Poles
New for 2027, the Iceline RS poles are a more rugged version of our Iceline poles designed for off-trail use and all season conditions. Like the regular version, they offer the compactness of a 3 piece pole and the simple reliability of a single external adjuster, while using larger tubing to increase the strength and stiffness. Where the RS version differs is by using thick walled aluminum for the lower two sections. This further increases the strength and better handles rugged use like talus field crossing and shoulder season conditions, while remaining pleasantly light at just 185 g (6.5 oz).
STRONG
The Iceline RS poles start with the same core concept as our regular Iceline poles where the design uses larger diameter tubing for added strength and stiffness. In particular, the non-telescoping design allows us to use much thicker 16 mm tubing at the tip section (where it is the most exposed to stresses) rather than 12-14mm like most poles, which substantially lowers the risk of breakage.
With the RS version, we increase the strength by switching the middle and lower sections from ultralight carbon shafts to thicker walled aluminum. This adds weight but is substantially stronger - including being able to support over 75 lbs per pole in a highly stressful horizontal span test. In particular, the aluminum tubing holds up well to accidental impacts and point loads that can be encountered in off-trail conditions like talus fields.
EFFICIENT DESIGN
Three section poles are ideal because they can easily stow in your pack and luggage, but most 3 section poles also use dual adjusters which are inefficient because they are unnecessary yet add weight, potential to slip, and more hassle to set the pole length.
With our Iceline poles we use a simpler and more reliable approach, where a single upper external adjuster provides ample adjustment range, while a lower quick connect saves weight, complexity, and eliminates the potential to slip. In normal use they operate like a 2 section pole, while being able to pack up as short like a 3 section pole. The result is a pole that is simpler, lighter, and more reliable.
This focus on efficient extends throughout the pole - such as the custom designed lightweight polymer tip and the re-engineer strap attachment to save further grams. Everything is distilled into its' simplest form to invest more weight into the areas that matter.
Premium Carbon
The Iceline poles are custom built for Durston in Austria by Komperdell who have over a century of experience building high quality poles. These poles use their highest grade carbon for the handle section to achieve greater performance at a lower weight, combined with thick walled aluminum for the lower sections to take the abuse.
External Adjuster
Unlike other poles near this weight, the Iceline poles have external adjustment which is easier to adjust, simpler to maintain, and less likely to slip compared to internal 'twist' adjusters. The external adjuster allows for ample adjustment range of 95 - 127 cm.
Quick Connect
In regular use the Iceline poles operate like a 2 piece pole with the upper external adjuster, but if you want them to pack short you can disconnect the tips with the quick connect mechanism. This mechanism enables a short pack size that is more compact than even other 3 piece poles, while being lighter, simpler, quicker to adjust the pole length, and with no risk of slippage.
Stronger Tip
The lowest section of a pole is the most common to break, so the Iceline poles use larger 16 mm tubing here (compared to 12 mm in other lightweight poles) - making the Iceline poles stronger where you need it most. Additionally, withe the RS version we change the lower and middle section to thicker walled aluminum to better handle accidents and impacts.
Matte Finish
The Iceline poles have a matte finish that gives the poles a premium look, but more importantly, is the result of our focus on weight efficiency as it saves several grams in lacquer compared to a glossy finish.
QUALITY & RELIABILITY
The Iceline poles are built from premium carbon fiber and 7075 aluminum with a custom shaped grip, while uniquely incorporating O-rings into the joints for silent operation. Even the sack is high quality, as it re-purposes otherwise scrap Dyneema® fabric from our Pro series tents to provide a superlight (5g) way to store the poles.
A key goal with the Iceline poles was to improve reliability and ease of use, because other lightweight poles commonly use internal 'twist' adjusters that are prone to slippage, or when they use external adjusters they use plastic parts. Either way, having dual adjusters decreases the reliability of the poles.
With the Iceline poles, we use a single adjuster and use the reliable external type to increase reliability and lower the risk of slippage. The second adjuster is replaced by a quick release connection that is simpler, impossible to slip, and has been further refined for the second generation with increased strength and reliability.
The result is a trekking pole with impressive strength and stiffness for all conditions. They remain light at 6.5 oz (185 g) each, while having strength similar to heavier poles - making them both highly capable and more pleasant to use. They are the ideal choice for demanding adventures from a traverse of Alaska's Brooks Range to a shoulder season trek on the Appalachian trail.
Specifications
SPECIFICATIONS
Pole
185 g (6.5 oz) without basket
Dyneema Stuff Sack
5 g (0.2 oz)
Basket (ea)
11 g (0.3 oz)
Collapsed
49 cm (19.5")
Minimum
95 cm (37")
Maximum
127 cm (50")
Upper / Middle / Lower
18 / 16 / 16 mm
3
Shaft
High Modulus Carbon + Aluminum
Grip
EVA Foam
Tip
Polymer + Carbide
External (upper) and quick release (lower)
Austria
Features
FEATURES
The Iceline RS poles weigh just 185 g (6.5 oz) while offering similar strength to many other poles around 230 - 270 g (8-9 oz) which makes them more agile on the trail.
The upper adjuster on the Iceline is a proven external adjuster (commonly referred to as flick locks) which is more reliable, easier to repair, and easier to adjust compared to internal ("twist lock") adjusters. It uses premium aluminum parts.
A Dyneema stuff sack is included for secure storage of the poles. These sacks are build from scrap Dyneema fabric from our X-Mid Pro tents.
The Iceline poles use larger diameter tubing because it is more weight efficient (stiffer and lighter). The upper section is 18 mm carbon (compared with 14 - 16 mm for competing poles) while the middle and lower sections are 16 mm aluminum (compared with 12 - 14 mm). This larger diameter tubing makes the Iceline poles both sturdier and lighter, especially at the tip where trekking poles are most likely to break.
The Iceline poles collapse to just 49 cm (19.5") to easily stow on the side of a backpack. Other 3 piece poles typically pack to 22-25".
The lower connection uses a simple and reliable quick connect mechanism that is well proven and dampened by an O-ring for silent operation.
The Iceline poles are custom made for Durston by Komperdell who are based in Austria and one of the world's foremost manufacturers of premium trekking poles. They build them for use using their best tubing, and our custom designs for the grip, tip, and other hardware.
FAQ
For a hiking application we do not recommend using baskets, as they add swing weight, catch on brush, and are generally unnecessary. However, a pair of large baskets are included for soft surfaces like sand and snow.
If you would like rubber boots for the tips, the industry standard 12 mm size will fit.
The regular and RS versions differ in weight, sturdiness, materials, and cost.
Iceline (No Straps) = 4.7 oz
Iceline (Yes Straps) = 5.1 oz
Iceline RS (includes straps) = 6.5 oz
The regular version is our flagship ultralight pole that offers premium all carbon construction for the lowest weight but at a higher price.
The RS version is an identical pole except the lower two sections are changed to thick walled aluminum, which is makes the pole stronger and more resistant to abuse and also less expensive, but it is heavier and reduces the effortless feel of the regular version.
For hikers that primarily hike on trails and are passionate about ultralight gear and saving weight, the regular version is the ideal choice. Whereas for people on more rugged adventures such as off-trail treks, ski touring, and shoulder season use, or who appreciate the engineering more-so than the lowest weight, or who prefer a greater safety margin against accidental damage will be better served by the RS version.
Yes. The Iceline trekking poles are designed to work perfectly with all models of our X-Mid tents. They have the appropriate ends and adjustment range to work seamlessly. They will also work as optional supports in our X-Dome tents. They are slightly too short to work to anchor the door in the X-Dome tents since that is more angled.
The word "Iceline" is a nod to our heritage here in the Canadian Rockies where there are trails called the Iceline, Skyline, Highline, and more. The Iceline Trail in particular runs through the alpine of Yoho National Park and inspires with rugged terrain and glaciers. It forms an alternate route on the Great Divide Trail.
Prior to the Iceline, I have had 3 other trekking poles from 3 other manufactures. Durston Iceline RS are the best. I didn’t realize how much better a simple tool a pole could get but the Iceline RS showed me.
Thanks again,
John-Paul “JP” Jones MD
Thanks JP! Glad you're enjoying the Iceline RS poles :)
- Dan Durston
Ordered mine at 9.02 PST on release day & they arrived in Ireland very quickly.
I've only tested them in the mountains of Kerry so far, and they are perfect with my X-mid1 , plus they are light & I love the mechanism.
I broke my last (non Durston) Carbon Fibre pole (lower section) when it got stuck in a crack and I continued forward, so the Aluminum lower section is perfect for me... Looking forward to using them in the Pyrenees next spring!
Keep up the great work!
Thanks Dennis!
- Dan
Poles are very comfortable and light. I have been using Leki Makalu cork Lite poles (which I like) but the Iceline RS's are noticeably lighter and effortless to swing. I have only had these out for a long day hike so far, but I liked them and thought the grips and straps were great.
Very well made. Light and strong! Super quality!
I covered 1500 miles on the AT in 2026 with Iceline 2025 (not RS) poles. In Pennsylvania/ NY/ VT they received crazy abuse. A lower finally snapped on Franconia Ridge in the Whites. I consider this a wear and tear/ abuse issue, not a design flaw. Durston was very responsive and prompt in replacing the lower. Their service dept is stellar. I have already bought (but not used) the RS model for 2026. In my mind this carbon fiber upper/ aluminum lower tubing mix is the ideal scenario when considering both weight and durability. I also have a Durston backpack and tent and am nothing but happy with my investment. I plan to finish the southern 1/3 of the AT in 2027 with my Iceline RS poles. I will add that (at least for the northern 2/3 of the AT) I used epoxy resin to glue rubber tips (I prefer Leki) to the pole tips to make them more functional for the rocky AT terrain. After about 600 miles I would just shave them off with a kitchen knife and replace. I know Durston sells rubber tips, but I didn't learn that until I was on trail and came up with my own solution. Love my Durston gear.
Thanks for the kind words and breakdown of the pole options. Glad you've been enjoying them and good luck with the rest of the AT.
- Dan Durston
Iceline RS Trekking Poles
Iceline RS Trekking Poles
very sturdy, reliable and beautifully designed. I did find disconnecting each pole takes a good amount of strength and the same for connecting them. otherwise, amazing trekking poles that will definitely survive a good amount of abuse. I am heavy and tripped several times on my last backpacking trip and these things what kept me away from the ground without budging... other trekking poles I have used for a similar price would have been damaged.
Really great designed poles. I got the heavier poles for support on the x dome 2. Great company to deal with.
Excellent all the way around!
Thanks Eric :)
- Dan
I bought these poles because the carbon upper and the aluminium lower was exactly how my brain wanted it to be. Light weight yet sturdy and my brain is happy. Thankyou
Thanks Stephen :) Yeah it's a nice combo. I love the extra grams saved with all carbon myself, but I do think this mix is a good arrangement for a lot of use cases and preferences.
- Dan
As always Dan, T, and the Durston team have produced a combination of quality and price to have poles manufactured second to none.
Thanks for the kind words and support John. Glad you're liking the poles.
- Dan
Iceline RS Trekking Poles are the BEST Durston Trekking Poles for rugged use Yet! I really like the larger, improved grip…plus their strength and sturdiness!
Over the years, I have had several trekking poles from other brands “break” under difficult conditions! These sturdy poles seem much, much stronger…at yet at a very light weight!
Thanks Robert! Glad the new poles are working well.
- Dan Durston
I'm sure its on here or a thread somewhere about why not but... I love the poles so far, just wish there was a cork handled version available. The synthetic just rubs weird after a while.
Glad you're loving the poles. We could do a cork grip, but real cork is quite a bit heavier which is why almost all light/ultralight poles use a similar EVA foam. Even the 'cork' ones are often just the same EVA foam that is colored to look like cork. Real cork would be a nice version though. We aren't doing it right now due to the weight but maybe someday.
- Dan Durston
These are fantastic, lightweight poles. Very solid and although I haven't tried the full carbon poles, I can recommend these over those because of their strength and reliability at the expense of barely an ounce per pole over the standard Icelines. I am also hard on poles as they can get caught in rocks and I don't one failing when I have an x-mid pro that relies on them. Minor quibble: the black paint seems to scrape off easily. Great performance and value.
Thanks Douglas. Glad the first impressions are good on the RS poles.
- Dan
I bought these to use alongside my usual Icelines - but on days where I need really robust poles. They feel great and are still really lightweight.
Thanks Emma! Now you have the full collection :)
- Dan Durston
I've been a fan of my X-mid for two years now, so when I needed new hiking poles I decided to wait for the release of the new icelines.
I decided to go for the more sturdy, but still quite light option, since I'll be using them in alpine terrain, and I'm often a bit clumsy so wouldn't be surprised if I'd damage the light version.
Love the mechanisms with which it locks into eachother, and also the length adjustment. Still have to try then on my tent though.
Only small downside is that even in collapsed form they're just a little on the larger side for my blue ice ice stash backpack, but they do fit, and I'm not sure if they could've been made any shorter.
Thanks Daan! I appreciate the long time support and am glad you're enjoying the Iceline poles.
- Dan
Significantly heavier than the original Iceline poles (which are shockingly light), but still lighter than my old carbon poles from Costco.
Delighted that they now come with baskets. That was my biggest complaint with the original Icelines. The baskets are ~ 2.5" in diameter, larger than standard ski pole baskets but smaller than powder baskets. I wish they came in two sizes -- larger for one winter use and smaller for the rest of the year -- but these should be a good compromise. Another very minor quibble: they don't entirely fit in the provided bag with the baskets attached.
Overall very happy with my purchase. I expect I'll opt for the RSs over my original Icelines -- that is, any time I expect to be hiking more off-trail than on.
Thanks Kelly. Yeah it's true they won't fit in the storage bag if the baskets are on. We considered that, but making the bag large enough to fit that would make it sorta sloppy the rest of the time.
- Dan
Simple to use. No flexing movement at the single connection point, even fully extended to its longest length. Stayed locked at my length without sliding. Lightweight. Only been with me on two hikes but seems durable, so long as I don’t step on it! Great product.
Thanks Kevin. Glad you're enjoying the poles.
- Dan
These are only the second set of trekking poles I have owned. They are fantastic to use. A great balance between strength and weight and very comfortable hand grips
Looking forward to using them a lot more.
I used these on an overnight backpacking trip last weekend and they held up great. Helped a lot with balance on the uneven trail. Super light and a great addition to my gear
Ordering the poles was simple; shipping surprisingly fast and the poles were well-packaged. Have not been able to use them yet, but they work well so far.
Took the new RS poles out into the olympic national park. I purchased them for the purpose of having a beefier set of poles for mountaineering trips but i was to excited to wait. The extra weight is so minimal I barely noticed a difference. I usually only use poles going down hill but I put a lot of tension on them during the ascent to test them out, i felt secure the entire time and I am a bigger guy. So stoked to have these for mountaineering trips and having my iceline poles for everything else. If you want only one set poles i highly suggest these be the ones, they are still lighter then almost anything on the market and feel like they can stand up to a lot of abuse. The baskets being included now is also really awesome. I do miss my other poles that collapse down to a smaller size for international travel but keeping these as a 2 piece pole is all good if it keep them strong and light.
Glad you're liking the poles. For travel, you can detach the tips and then they do pack shorter than even most 3 piece poles.
- Dan
Iceline RS Trekking Poles
Amazing product and staff. Thank you.
I really like my new RS poles. They are noticeably lighter than my older Black Diamond cork carbon alpine ones. I used them on my local training trail. Pretty sweet!
It’s a beautiful relationship!