- LENGTH: 105-130cm extended / 60cm collapsed (41”-51” / 24”)
- WEIGHT: 466g (16oz)
- PRICE: €129
A collaboration with the specialists at Komperdell, the Jones Explorer Carbon splitboard poles are part of the brand’s recent expansion into backcountry gear. Other new arrivals include a shovel and probe, joining the established range of backpacks and splitboard skins.
This version is lighter than the regular all-aluminium Explorer, for obvious reasons, but it’s only the top two sections that feature carbon. The lowest section is made from a tough, mostly-aluminium alloy known as ‘Titanal’, as it’s the one most likely to be taking hits as you ascend through sketchy terrain.
“The telescopic design is less fidgety than probe-style collapsable poles, and it’s easy to set the exact length you need”
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The tips are made from tungsten carbide, a compound so tough it’s often used in armour-piercing rounds, and the baskets are malleable enough to let you plant your poles at any angle. At the other end, the comfy grip and padded strap are there to give your hands a break.
The telescopic design is less fidgety than probe-style collapsable poles, and it’s easy to set the exact length you need when adjusting for the gradient. Anything between 105cm and 130cm is suitable for use, so these will suit a wide range of riders, and at only 60cm the collapsed size can be safely strapped to your pack for the descent.
Like many Jones products, the Explorer Carbon poles are emblazoned with the ‘Five Red Flags’. This list of the key things to look out for when assessing backcountry conditions has the potential to save lives, so having a reminder close at hand (literally, in this case) is always a good thing.
