A close look at two trekking poles buyers cross-shop. On the data the Distance Carbon Z is the stronger all-round pick, and the question is whether the Flash Carbon still fits your budget or priorities.
| Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z | REI Co-op Flash Carbon | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 94✓ | 67 |
| Weight (pair) | 8.7 oz✓ | 12.9 oz |
| Packed length | 36 cm✓ | 58 cm |
| Max length | 120 cm | 120 cm |
| Min length | 120 cm | 100 cm |
| Price | $170✓ | $189 |
| Material | Carbon | Carbon |
| Fold style | Fixed | Telescoping |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: Distance Carbon Z 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 Z next to the REI Co-op Flash Carbon and the trade-offs are clear. The Distance Carbon Z is the stronger pick on most of the specs that matter, while the Flash Carbon makes its case on price.
The Distance Carbon Z is 4.2 oz lighter per pair, 22 cm shorter packed, and $19 cheaper. On the default GearScore the Distance Carbon Z leads 94 to 67.
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 Flash Carbon if you would rather save the difference.
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z. It is 4.2 oz lighter per pair than the Flash Carbon.
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z. It is 22 cm shorter packed than the Flash Carbon.
The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z, 94 to 67 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 Flash Carbon if it is the better value for you.