My husband and I have been mountaineering for years and trekked all over the world. We are gear junkies who have tried many adventure sports. My husband spends a good deal of time researching the best products and gear…and we believe we have found that in Sierra Madre. No matter what we purchase we have been happy. These poles included…so far they have been the best poles we have invested in. They are so lightweight, compact and comfortable…we have championed them among our friends. You won’t be disappointed buying these. This is our second purchase because I lost a stick off my pack while climbing up a steep peak in the Picos de Europa…we all pay the mountain eventually…that was a painful payment, and I mourned the loss of it! Strap your gear down good!