Here is how these two trekking poles compare on the numbers. On the data the Distance Carbon Z is the stronger all-round pick, and the question is whether the Distance Carbon FLZ still fits your budget or priorities.
| Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z | Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 94✓ | 78 |
| Weight (pair) | 8.7 oz✓ | 12.0 oz |
| Packed length | 36 cm✓ | 40 cm |
| Max length | 120 cm | 125 cm✓ |
| Min length | 120 cm | 110 cm |
| Price | $170✓ | $240 |
| Material | Carbon | Carbon |
| Fold style | Fixed | Folding |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: Distance Carbon Z in blue, Distance Carbon FLZ 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.
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z against the Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ is a study in priorities. The Distance Carbon Z is the stronger pick on most of the specs that matter, while the Distance Carbon FLZ makes its case on reach.
The Distance Carbon Z is 3.3 oz lighter per pair, 4 cm shorter packed, and $70 cheaper. The Distance Carbon FLZ is a longer reach (125 vs 120 cm). On the default GearScore the Distance Carbon Z leads 94 to 78.
Pick the Distance Carbon Z if you care most about low weight and packability, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the Distance Carbon FLZ if reach matter more to you, or you are focused on your priorities.
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z. It is 3.3 oz lighter per pair than the Distance Carbon FLZ.
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z. It is 4 cm shorter packed than the Distance Carbon FLZ.
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z, 94 to 78 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
The Distance Carbon Z is the stronger all-round pick here. Choose the Distance Carbon FLZ if reach is your priority.