Robens

Ambleside C66 £93

+ Excellent value, lightweight, durable, extended handgrip

- A little long when folded, not premium-end quality There is nothing particularly exciting or innovative here, but the Robens Ambleside C66 does all of the basics excellently at an affordable price. Made from carbon fibre, this pole strikes a good balance between weight and durability – it feels sufficiently tough and strong despite weighing just 224g per pole. Two fast-clip clamps enable quick length adjustment, while the telescopic design – with the pole sections sliding into each other – packs down to 62cm. This is longer than some, but it still fits neatly into backpack pockets or pole loops. The EVA foam handle is ergonomically shaped to fit your hand, with contouring for your thumb and forefinger placement and a lip for the bottom of your hand. The handle extends over the top of the pole shaft, providing an extended handgrip for use when ascending. The wrist supports, screw-on baskets and optional rubber feet all work fine, while the tungsten tip provides good traction over mixed terrain. A useful carrybag is also included, enabling tidy storage. The build quality and materials aren’t quite as premium as more expensive options, but for the average hillwalker this pole is ideal at an attractive sub-£100 price per pair.

LENGTH (folded-unfolded) 62-135cm WEIGHT (per pole) 224g