Two trekking poles worth lining up side by side. On the data the FT3 is the stronger all-round pick, and the question is whether the DynaLock Ascent Carbon still fits your budget or priorities.
| Gossamer Gear FT3 | MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 77✓ | 59 |
| Weight (pair) | 12.4 oz✓ | 16.6 oz |
| Packed length | 38 cm | 37 cm✓ |
| Max length | 130 cm✓ | 120 cm |
| Min length | 110 cm | 100 cm |
| Price | $245 | $190✓ |
| Material | Carbon | Carbon |
| Fold style | Folding | Folding |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: FT3 in blue, DynaLock Ascent 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.
The Gossamer Gear FT3 and MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon take different routes to the same job. The FT3 is the stronger pick on most of the specs that matter, while the DynaLock Ascent Carbon makes its case on packability and price.
The FT3 is 4.2 oz lighter per pair and a longer reach (130 vs 120 cm). The DynaLock Ascent Carbon is a little shorter packed and $55 cheaper. On the default GearScore the FT3 leads 77 to 59.
Pick the FT3 if you care most about low weight and reach, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the DynaLock Ascent Carbon if packability and price matter more to you, or you are focused on saving space in your pack.
The Gossamer Gear FT3. It is 4.2 oz lighter per pair than the DynaLock Ascent Carbon.
The MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon. It is a little shorter packed than the FT3.
The Gossamer Gear FT3, 77 to 59 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
The FT3 is the stronger all-round pick here. Choose the DynaLock Ascent Carbon if packability is your priority.