Black Diamond Contour Elliptic Shock Review

Likes
This is the most comfortable overall pole we tested. We really liked the handles and the foam-covered upper shaft. Along with the similarly designed Black Diamond Trail Back, this pole had the most comfortable foam handle we tested. While most of our testers liked the cork grip better, there were a few that loved the feel and the ergonomics of foam on this pole. The Black Diamond FlickLock is the easiest locking mechanism to use. These are the most durable poles in our review because of their tear-drop-shaped shafts combined with their burly locking mechanism.

If you are just evaluating a pole on its shock absorber, this is the best one. We liked it better than the Leki Corklite Aergon Antishock, which we felt bottomed out a hair too easily. That said, the Leki scored higher overall.

Dislikes
This is the heaviest pole we tested and the most expensive pole with a foam grip.

Best Application
This pole is ideal for trekkers, backpackers or folks that just want a Cadillac of a pole. Being the heaviest pole we tested combined with its shock mechanism makes it less ideal for climbers or hikers wanting to travel light.

Value
These are among the more expensive trekking poles we tested but comparably priced to the other high-scoring poles. While you can buy shock absorbing poles for as little as $80, they won't be as easy to collapse or as sturdy.