User Review: REI Peak UL Trekking Poles

REI Peak UL Trekking Poles
Above: The current Peak UL Trekking Poles, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed March 7, 2006 by Phil

Rating: rated 4 of 5 stars
Price Paid: $150

Even though I'm on my second set, I believe they'll prove worthy of 4 stars.

My history with trekking poles began about 16 years ago. Back then, we just used what was called telescoping ski poles. I still have my original, durable set of aluminum Elderids I got at Marmot's home store in Bellevue, WA.

A year ago, I received some Leki Super Makalus for a birthday gift. They were fine, however the etched calibrations wore off. I figured for the price that was unacceptable. I returned them to REI, and as REI always has, cheerfully gave me a refund, or exchange option.

I was going to get another set of Super Makalus but a fellow consumer nearby said "check out these." They were the REI brand UL with air shocks.

They are so light, they almost fly. I discovered years ago when I purchased an expensive graphite kayak paddle, that over a day's use (lots of cycles back and forth) a little weight savings makes a big difference in the fatigue factor. Same with these.

However, on my first serious outing up nearby Mt. Defiance, the bushing on the upper telescoping section spun, and wouldn't lock properly. Oh Krap, not the place to lose a firm pole! It appeared the bonding cement between the graphite and plastic bushing failed. I made it down fine.

Just got another pair today, and I'll keep returning failed ones cause I love the light weight.

Where to Buy

Sorry, we couldn't find any online retailers selling the REI Peak UL Trekking Poles. You may want to check pricing and availability directly at these sites:

Retailers: Do you sell the REI Peak UL Trekking Poles? List your site here.

Similar Trekking Poles

Compare
See how the REI Peak UL Trekking Poles stacks up against the competition: read more trekking pole reviews or more about REI.

Contribute
Have you used a REI Peak UL Trekking Poles or a similar product? Write a gear review.

Discuss
Still have questions? Answers? Opinions? Join the converstation in the Trailspace Forums.