Our classic, daily-driver touring poles with an all-aluminum construction, the Traverse poles have the features and durability needed for day-in/day-out backcountry skiing.
the Black Diamond Traverse ski pole is our classic, all-aluminum touring pole for backcountry skiing. With a durable aluminum construction, FlickLock adjustability, and a redesigned grip for improved ergonomics, the Traverse holds up to season after season of abuse.
For when you need a workhorse, FlickLock technology offers secure, fast and easy adjustments.
We trust what we make because we use what we make. All Black Diamond products are covered by a two year warranty policy.
At Black Diamond, we're committed to going deep, whether that's into the mountains, the design process, or the community we love. Our fall/winter collection of equipment and apparel is built for the experience of casting off, and diving into the deep end of adventure.
Overall rating: 4.285714 / 5 from 28 reviews.
Review topics: ["weight","quality","design","price","grip","poles","adjustment","frills","touring","aluminum"].
"These are really nice poles. They feel a bit sturdier than the old gray and orange traverse ski poles but not any heavier. They're not flimsy, delicate, rinky dink poles that feel like they're going to break if you slip and accidentally put all your weight on them. They don't bow when you use them to release your bindings. The improved little hook jawns on the grips make heel elevator adjustments a cinch while touring. These feel like they'll last for many several seasons."
"These are great poles to take on family ski trips. one size fits all when someone inevitably forgets or loses their poles."
"I initially had a difficult time getting the snow baskets on. But the expert BD customer service (Shie) helped me. In following her instructions, I discovered that one of the poles has a phillips screwdriver tip embedded in it! That's so clever & useful. The flitlock adjustment is really easy & strong to lengthen/shorten. The hand straps are easy to adjust. I have used them both for teaching in ski school & Nordic patrolling. The blue color makes them easy to find. I highly recommend them."
"The new generation of traverse poles is an upgrade on the last gen that was definitely too flimsy for every[ski]day use. They got rid of the lower grip point which wasn’t essential but was nice for touring, and with a lot of plastic components I worry about longevity but as of today I’m happy with them as a baseline touring pole."
"I am very satisfied with my recent purchase of Traverse ski poles. They replace an old pair of Black Diamond poles I had which snapped on the bottom half. They weren't able to replace the bottom part due to the age of the poles so they gave me a healthy discount on my new poles which I greatly appreciate. The new ones seem sturdier so I don't anticipate them breaking easily."
"These poles are fantastic. Lightweight rigid aluminum with very easy adjustment. The stock baskets are fantastic and float well and powder overall a great entry-level pole."
"Extremely dissatisfied. One of the baskets came with ruined thread. And one of the poles came with something on the inside like a rough finish that scratches the crap out of the inside part of the pole. I expect more from BD. Also heavy. When I reached out to support they just referred me to some warrantee portal even though I had just purchased the poles and not used them once."
"I need to max the poles out to 150-155, I'm glad they can, but this also makes them very flexy. . . flimsy. I especially notice while climbing on skis. Otherwise, love the adjustability and weight."
"I am no back country skier. I ski on or just off piste. These poles are a little heavy but feel solid even though they are adjustable, which makes storing and transporting them a breeze. Grips and price are fantastic. BD for another win."
"The baskets attach to the pole via a thread that doesnt work. If you put these under any strain, the baskets fall off. They can be reattached, but will promptly fall off again"
| Height (A) | Suggested Length (CM) (B) |
|---|---|
| < 5'1" < 154 cm | 100 cm |
| 5'1" - 5'7" 154 - 171 cm | 110 cm |
| 5'8" - 5'11" 172 - 182 cm | 120 cm |
| 6'+ 183 cm + | 130 cm |
Stand straight and bend your elbow at 90°. Measure the distance from your fist to the ground, then add about 2 inches to account for the pole tip that extends beyond the powder basket.
