The Black Diamond Contour Elliptic has been designed as a strong, versatile, high-mileage pole built for comfortable and secure navigation across variable terrain.

Though technically not an ellipse, being a little more teardrop in shape, they are certainly different to your standard cylindrical pole. The shape of the shaft makes the pole considerably stiffer and makes the pole less prone to twisting.

The pole lengths can be quickly adjusted via the two Flicklocks. The Flicklock mechanisms are great as they can be easily opened and closed when wearing gloves, and unlike twist mechanisms there is no need to have to fight with twisting wet poles. The Flicklock mechanisms themselves need to be stiff to stop the pole from slipping but can be adjusted to make them easier to open and close if necessary. The bottom two adjustable sections feature adjustment markers so that the poles lengths can be quickly gauged, however the markers are rather on the small side.

The handle is tilted forwards by 15 degrees, this provides a more comfortable and natural grip than a straight up pole. The handles is well shaped and most people should find it comfortable to use. The wrist loop supplied is comfortable and can be quickly and easily adjusted. It also features an absorbent mesh for those hot sweaty days. The Contour Elliptic pole is supplied with two different pairs of baskets, the standard trekking baskets and the larger powder baskets, enabling the pole to be used throughout the year.

The Black Diamond Contour Elliptic Pole would be a good choice for the those who put in plenty of miles and who are looking for a robust yet still comfortable, all year round pole.

Specification

• Weight: 564g
• Collapsed Size: 70cm
• Usable Range: 76cm - 140cm
• Price per pair

In depth Review
Contour Elliptic by Andy Hyslop (older model)