We take a closer look at the new Komperdell Carbon Ultralite Vario 4 walking poles. The brand states: “When packing light for your next outdoor adventure is a priority and everything has to be extremely lightweight, Komperdell has the answer with its Carbon Ultralite Vario 4 poles.”

Why use walking poles?

Walking/trekking poles can be a great benefit on a multi-day walking holiday. If you are walking longer distances or taking in a lot of ascent and descent, using poles allows you to go for longer with less strain on your legs. We have previously written about the benefits of walking poles. It’s also a good idea to make sure the walking poles fold down into an easily packable size. Folding walking poles are also easier to fit into your suitcase and are much easier to carry in – or attached to the sides – of your walking backpack. Lightweight poles will also keep to a minimum the overall weight of your luggage (especially if you are aiming to book only hand luggage for your walking holiday).

Komperdell Carbon Ultralite Vario 4 walking poles

Good quality foldable system.

The Ultralight Vario 4 walking poles packs down neatly. They fold into three attached pieces. They are easily rebuilt thanks to internal plastic strew threads. I like the high quality look and feel of the folding points of these poles. All too often with other poles the folding section feels flimsy but the Komperdell Carbon Ultralite Vario 4s have a very sturdy screw-together system. The poles are made of carbon, which is very light and strong and my first preference for walking poles. The Carbon Ultralite Vario 4 weighs just 176g per pole. The poles are adaptable for different heights because they have an easily adjustable length of between 120cm and 145cm. A “Power Lock 3.0 mechanism” keeps the poles securely at the right length.

Adjustable for people of different heights.

The poles have lovely soft-feel foam grips. This is excellent because when hands get warm while walking you can end up with blisters if the grips are not soft and nicely moulded. Padded wrists straps are a lovely extra. The poles have a durable tungsten/carbide tip and they could be used for soft ground as well as icy/snowy conditions.

Comfortable grip and padded wrist strap.

The poles might be light but when walking they have a lovely balanced feel to them. I usually find that my arms and shoulders ache a bit when using walking poles but because they are so lightweight and easy to walk with I found the poles to be only an advantage and not a nuisance! I like that they fold up so neatly and can be carried on a walking rucksack with any noticeable difference to the weight on your shoulders. The Komperdell Carbon Ultralite Vario 4 poles are not cheap at £190 but they are very well made, super lightweight and adjustable so they would be a good long-term buy if you plan to do a lot of walking. Komperdell also sell a carbon expedition set of poles that weigh 210g per pole for £149.99 and an Approach pair of poles for £129.95. See First Ascent.