Great value - Black Diamond Trail Sport 2 Trekking Poles

These are the first trekking poles I've ever owned and I am quite pleased. The locking mechanism holds them firmly in the set position, even when stumbling down a steep slope and putting more weight on them. (I'm 230). The grips feel good and the straps have that nice flat spot which allows you to rest the side of your palm in the strap. If your hike was a messy one, you can remove the lower half to clean it without hassle. They probably won't fit in your suitcase, but will fit in small car trunks. (I have a Miata) I don't have a point of reference to grade the shock-absorbtion, but I didn't receive any stiff feedback from the poles even when they landed on rocks. I'm happy.

This review was written in the old system and had content requirements that are different than reviews written today.