A close look at two trekking poles buyers cross-shop. On the data the LT5 is the stronger all-round pick, and the question is whether the Flash Carbon still fits your budget or priorities.
| Gossamer Gear LT5 | REI Co-op Flash Carbon | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 80✓ | 67 |
| Weight (pair) | 9.8 oz✓ | 12.9 oz |
| Packed length | 60 cm | 58 cm✓ |
| Max length | 130 cm✓ | 120 cm |
| Min length | 51 cm | 100 cm |
| Price | $195 | $189✓ |
| Material | Carbon | Carbon |
| Fold style | Telescoping | Telescoping |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: LT5 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 Gossamer Gear LT5 next to the REI Co-op Flash Carbon and the trade-offs are clear. The LT5 is the stronger pick on most of the specs that matter, while the Flash Carbon makes its case on packability and price.
The LT5 is 3.1 oz lighter per pair and a longer reach (130 vs 120 cm). The Flash Carbon is a little shorter packed and $6 cheaper. On the default GearScore the LT5 leads 80 to 67.
Pick the LT5 if you care most about low weight and reach, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the Flash Carbon if packability and price matter more to you, or you are focused on saving space in your pack.
The Gossamer Gear LT5. It is 3.1 oz lighter per pair than the Flash Carbon.
The REI Co-op Flash Carbon. It is a little shorter packed than the LT5.
The Gossamer Gear LT5, 80 to 67 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
The LT5 is the stronger all-round pick here. Choose the Flash Carbon if packability is your priority.