Iceline Trekking Poles

Wrist straps are a topic of much debate. Hikers preferring no straps are often using the poles for balance and low to moderate propulsion while valuing the simplicity, easy release if the pole gets caught, and weight savings of no straps.

Other hikers prefer wrist straps - usually so they can provide more propulsion while gripping the handle with less effort (because the straps can transfer the load to the wrist).

We suggest that many hikers will be well served by poles without straps since hiking is a fairly low exertion activity, but if you prefer straps or aren't sure then we suggest opting for the strap version because the straps are easily removable so you can always go strapless later (although at a few gram weight penalty since there is still added hardware inside the grip). Straps can not be added later to the version without straps.

For 2025 we have added a much requested strap version. Additionally, we have added a matte lacquer finish over the graphics to improve their durability, found further ways to save weight so the strapless version is slightly lighter yet at 134g, and we substantially increased the strength of the quick connect mechanism so the poles are over 30% higher in breaking strength.

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 Iceline poles are the world's lightest adjustable three piece poles. There are lighter poles that are a fixed length, non-adjustable, or 2 piece adjustable, but hikers are best served by a pole that is three piece (so it can fit on the side of your backpack) and adjustable (so the length can be adjusted to suit the circumstances and to pitch your tent). At 134 g for the strapless version, the Iceline poles are the lightest poles we are aware of that are adjustable and pack conveniently.

There are other poles that are only slightly heavier (137-158 g) but the remarkable thing with the Iceline poles isn't the few extra grams saved but that they are lighter while being substantially sturdier and more reliable. The other poles near this weight are weaker and using less reliable twist lock adjusters. To get another pole with the sturdiness and external adjustment of the Iceline poles you have to look at poles about 50% heavier. Compared to those, the lighter weight of the Iceline's makes them noticeably nicer to hike with.

Our quick connect mechanism is more reliable than the lower adjusters it replaces. With this mechanism, it has no potential to slip under your weight because the middle and lower sections of the tubing are the same diameter. It is also more difficult to pull apart by accident than a traditional pole because instead of relying on friction there are aluminum parts that lock together and are only released by a flush mounted button.

Since the two sections butt together the mechanism itself is not under strain. The sole function of the quick connect mechanism is to prevent the lower section from dropping away when the pole is lifted, so the mechanism is simple, reliable and under minimal stress.

The mechanism is also well proven, as the core mechanism has been used previously in other applications (other running and folding poles). We uniquely created a lighter weight version that eliminates the internal cable and adds dampening to avoid rattle, but reliability of the core mechanism is well established.

For a hiking application we do not recommend using baskets, as they add swing weight, catch on brush, and are generally unnecessary. However, there are applications where baskets are needed, such as on soft terrain or snow.

If you would like baskets, the Iceline poles are compatible with the 'Vario' series of baskets from Komperdell. Those can be purchased at a wide range of outdoor retailers.

If you would like rubber boots for the tips, the 8mm size from Komperdell fits.

We have replacement sections available here.

In the field, if you break a middle section of the pole you can reinsert the remaining portion into the upper external adjuster to restore functionality (at a lower maximum height).

If you break the tip section, the pole will no longer function as a trekking pole but can often still be used to pitch your tent by using the remaining pole in a handles up orientation. If the remaining length is too short, that is a risk with any trekking poles but can usually be overcome with some creativity, such as propping up the pole with a rock or log.

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.

These poles have a durable carbide tip which is almost impossible to wear out, but the carbide tip can fall out if the tip of the pole is damaged.

If you do lose or damage the tip, it is easy to add replacement tips over top. Unlike other poles, you can add aftermarket tips with no need to remove the original. Alternatively, you can order a replacement tip section from us.