Black Diamond Pursuit Carbon FLZ Review - ''I can’t speak highly enough of how positive an additional trekking poles are to a kit list, regardless of age and experience.''
Posted by Rob Farquhar on Jun 10, 2026
My introduction to trekking poles came courtesy of Black Diamond a few years ago when completing the Yorkshire 3 Peaks so I was very interested in trying the new Pursuit Carbon FLZ, this time I put these to the test along the Cleveland Way.
Having now used the poles over rolling hills, rocky uneven descents, open bridleways and steady inclines I have yet to find fault with them.
The Pursuit series from Black Diamond are designed for comfort. On one day I experienced temperatures in the mid 20c and with no shade I still didn’t have any issues with sweaty hands or blisters developing. My grip didn’t faulter on the cork grips and I felt stable with the support they offered. The straps also produced no rubbing feeling both durable and breathable at the same time.
The poles are adjustable, at 5ft 10” I was using the 125cm option which has an adjustable range of 110 – 125cm. However if you are wanting to keep your momentum there are foam grip extensions beneath the cork handles helping you pull yourself up steeper terrain, without the need for adjustments.
One great addition that Black Diamond provide with the Pursuit Carbon FLZ is a hex key hidden away in the shaft of the pole. This is ideal for making on the trail adjustments to the Flicklock (what the FL stands for in the name) system, if the locking mechanism starts slipping. I’ve yet to use it but it is always good knowing these changes can be made quickly without having to carry additional kit.
The ‘Z’ part of the naming system is to show these are foldable. Collapsing to a pack size of 41cm (or 42cm if using the 120-135cm). Brilliant if taking abroad and for quick storage in the side pockets of your rucksack. You can keep moving whilst storing these.
Another aspect I am yet to use are the snow baskets, showing that the strength in these poles aren’t just for 3 season use but all year round support.
Since I completed the Yorkshire 3 Peaks, using trekking poles, for the second time, I can’t speak highly enough of how positive an additional trekking poles are to a kit list, regardless of age and experience. The Pursuit Carbon FLZ in my eyes should be on all kit lists for any hiker, from day walks to multi-day hikes at home, and abroad.
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| Rob Farquhar |
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Rob has always enjoyed being on a bike ever since he was a child. He tries to enter at least one mountain bike event a year. Since moving closer to the Yorkshire Dales and now the North York Moors he’s started to do more walking and in late 2024 became the 450th person to complete the Liechtenstein Way. He has completed the Coast To Coast (C2C) on his mountain bike, the Yorkshire 3 Peak challenge twice and has attempted to hike up Ojos Del Salado; the highest peak in Chile. His aim for 2025 is to complete the Cleveland Way over several weekends with his Dad who suffers with mobility issues due to Parkinson's. Rob has been working in the outdoor retail industry since 2012. |
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