Komperdell Carbon CX Pro Walking Poles
2nd Jun 2026
When walking poles first began appearing in the hills I was much younger, my knees much springier, and my ankles more robust. I remember thinking that they were for older folk. I'm now in that category and can not only attest to their effectiveness, but wish my younger self had been more open minded to using them earlier. With hindsight it seems obvious that protecting your joints when young will prolong their lifespan.
I've now had a few different pairs of poles and experimented with different styles. The main variable is the way in which they fold or compress into a portable state. The Carbon CX Pros are actually longer in their packed-away state than many models, with three telescopic sections which slide into each other as opposed to the 3 or sometimes 4 sections connected by a cable. I think that the CX Pros are stronger for it. Where the sections join there are orange clamps, adjustable with anything from a screwdriver to a small coin or butter knife if you get caught out. Once adjusted they do tend to stay in the correct position, but I have in occasion, had to improvise to re-tighten. It's a doddle.
Where these poles differ from the majority on the market is the longer than usual grip. My personal preference is that I rarely use the wrist straps on any poles. I think this comes from skiing where I prefer to run the risk of dropping a pole than having it wrapped up with me if I take a tumble. I also like the ability to quickly change grip, hold a single pole with two hands and quickly get my camera out of my pocket without having to extricate my hand from a loop. The long grips make all of this way easier than with a single hand sized grip so big plus points from me.
My two suggestions would be to supply both small and large baskets for the pole ends, and also a carry bag. Mine came with large baskets suitable for snow. I had some smaller ones from an older pair of poles and was able to swap them easily enough (bayonetted fitting). As for the carry bag, I obviously put the poles inside whatever hold-nag I am travelling with when flying and am not keen on having them loose, even with the plastic end caps (which I will inevitably lose before I next need them). A small drawstring bag would e a great idea, especially if it had strapping to attach to the outside of your day-bag whilst walking with them stowed.
The poles retail at £159. Given the number of times they helped me catch myself on a weary descent off Ben Nevis last week I'd say they are worth their weight in gold, let along Carbon!