User Review: Black Diamond Unisex Trail Shock

I have been very happy with these poles.  they were a significant step up from my previous poles for the following reasons:

1. Grip - these have a firm rubber/foam grip. The grips have some 'give' but are nicely contoured. I debated quite a bit about rubber vs. cork grips, but no regrets so far. The straps are pretty easy to adjust and pretty comfortable. So far, neither has worn appreciably. (My former poles had hard plastic grips, which were less comfortable.)
2. Length adjustment - this is a three-section pole with two 'flik locks.'  the length is marked on each section of the pole. The flik locks are firm; one of the four required a slight adjustment because it slipped on my first hike; after that brief adjustment, with a screwdriver, slippage hasn't been an issue.
   
   My main debate was whether to get this or fixed-length poles that collapse into three sections, much like a tent pole. The fixed-length collapsible poles are lighter, but I like the ability to adjust the length depending on conditions. (The poles I replaced had twist locks that slipped regularly.)
3. Shock absorbers — my old poles didn't have this, and it noticeably reduces impact. 
4. Durability has been quite good. I hung up the carbide tips in cracks a few times and gave the poles a pretty good wrenching jolt. No damage.