A close look at two trekking poles buyers cross-shop. On the data the Distance Carbon FLZ is the stronger all-round pick, and the question is whether the Flash Carbon still fits your budget or priorities.
| Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ | REI Co-op Flash Carbon | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 78✓ | 67 |
| Weight (pair) | 12.0 oz✓ | 12.9 oz |
| Packed length | 40 cm✓ | 58 cm |
| Max length | 125 cm✓ | 120 cm |
| Min length | 110 cm | 100 cm |
| Price | $240 | $189✓ |
| Material | Carbon | Carbon |
| Fold style | Folding | Telescoping |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: Distance Carbon FLZ in blue, Flash Carbon in amber. A blank spec is never counted as a win. Min length is shown for context and is not scored. GearScore is the overall rating (0 to 100); re-weight it on the full trekking-pole comparison. Prices are current MSRP.
Put the Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ next to the REI Co-op Flash Carbon and the trade-offs are clear. The Distance Carbon FLZ is the stronger pick on most of the specs that matter, while the Flash Carbon makes its case on price.
The Distance Carbon FLZ is 0.9 oz lighter per pair, 18 cm shorter packed, and a longer reach (125 vs 120 cm). The Flash Carbon is $51 cheaper. On the default GearScore the Distance Carbon FLZ leads 78 to 67.
Pick the Distance Carbon FLZ if you care most about low weight and packability, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the Flash Carbon if price matter more to you, or you are focused on getting the most for your money.
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ. It is 0.9 oz lighter per pair than the Flash Carbon.
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ. It is 18 cm shorter packed than the Flash Carbon.
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ, 78 to 67 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
The Distance Carbon FLZ is the stronger all-round pick here. Choose the Flash Carbon if price is your priority.