Welcome back to another Gear Review, Everyone!
Today, i’m bringing you all a pair of trekking poles that i’ve been using since my Adventure Gear Series article from the month of May….The Ultra Z Folding Trekking Poles by MontemLife.com.
Montem Ultra Z Trekking Poles Review
Montem sent these trekking poles back in April for me to review. My initial reaction when I took them out of their supplied carry bag was, “Man these are so compact & light!”.
Up ’till this point I was familiar with large, cumbersome trekking poles that are twice the size of these (when compacted). So, the change of pace that Montem made here is nice.
The Ultra Z Folding Trekking Poles are made of extremely lightweight 7075 Aluminum and have EVA foam handles (which are extremely comfy…but more on that later).
Montem also stuck with the lightweight theme for their quick lock fasteners, which allow you to adjust the height of the trekking pole. The quick locks are made of a durable plastic material.
All of the materials used allow each trekking pole to come in at a mere 10.5 ounces.
Price of the Montem Ultra Z Trekking Poles
If you’ve not already clicked over to Montem’s website to check, these poles go for around $70 for the pair. In terms of competitive products, you would pay (at least) $40-50 more for a similar product from their competitors. In fact – I went to a few local stores and hiking shops to do a comparison in terms of quality vs price. And I have to say – I would go with the Montem poles if I were looking for a lightweight/foldable trekking pole.
You obviously pay a bit more for lightweight equipment in this industry, and rightfully so. The materials are often times more expensive for the manufacturer to purchase, which make the price higher for the consumer.
Me personally…I don’t mind the added cost. Because, lightweight products will make a hiking/camping trip far more enjoyable. I’m not an ultralight fanatic in every way (yet)…But I do appreciate the few pieces of gear that I have splurged on that fall into this category.
Quality of the Montem Ultra Z Trekking Poles
Quality was the main area that I was most critical of during my testing. I knew these poles were ultra light and used nice materials. But to me, there’s something about heavy materials that give you the instant feeling of durability. Whereas, lightweight materials have to prove themselves first.
After using these trekking poles for a couple of months on multiple trips, I can say that I am confident in their durability. They have stood up to everything that I would throw at them on the trail. The quick locks that allow you to adjust the height have been plenty durable, even though they’re made of plastic. The aluminum shafts are sturdy and don’t have a lot of flex. And the handles are incredible.
Comfort of the Montem Ultra Z Trekking Poles
The EVA Foam handles on the Ultra Z Trekking Poles are so comfortable! It feels almost like a cork material. It’s extremely soft to the touch, has great grip even when wet, and feels great for long distances. I personally could not go back to the cheaper materials found in other trekking poles at this point.
The weight does come into play again for the comfort of these trekking poles. Since they are so lightweight, they won’t wear you out or slow you down while on the trail.
Trekking Poles made with Backpackers in Mind
As every backpacker, hiker, and camper knows – The weight and size of your gear matters. If it weighs too much, or is too large it gets left at home.
The Montem Ultra Z Trekking Poles are in my opinion a backpackers new best friend. They fold up to a compact 16″ each, making them perfect to shove into a side water bottle pocket on a pack. Or even stow away inside your backpacks main compartment.
And since they are a lightweight 10.5 ounces each, they are not going to slow you down or make you reconsider bringing them along due to weight.
Why Use Trekking Poles?
I remember when I looked at buying my first set of trekking poles. I thought to myself, “why do I need these”? It wasn’t until I used them on a couple of trips that I could answer that question.
- Better Balance:
Trekking Poles are like guards rails that travel with you on the trail…That’s the best way i’ve been able to describe it. When you’re descending a steep slope, they are there to keep you balanced. Just the same on upslopes – They give you something to hang onto and pull yourself up. And crossing water, or obstacles is much easier with trekking poles in hand. - Reduces Fatigue:
I was amazed the first time I used trekking poles on a trip. I was far less tired at the end of the day. And my legs/back thanked me for bringing the trekking poles along. - Great for trips with children:
Trekking Poles are fantastic if you have small children with you. It allows them something to grab onto when they’re making climbs or struggling for their balance. They also work great if you need to quickly extend your reach to keep them in line on a trail, if you’re coming up to a dangerous spot. - Great impromptu defensive tool:
Trekking Poles also give you a quick line of defense if you encounter a poisonous snake or aggressive wild animal. While this is not a likely scenario, it is something that could help you if you come into harms way. (I personally live in copperhead, rattlesnake, mountain lion, and black bear country)
Would I recommend the Montem Ultra Z Trekking Poles?
Absolutely! I am personally so excited and happy that Montem got in touch with me about these trekking poles. They are (in my opinion) a hidden gem in the hiking, backpacking, and camping market. I will absolutely be using the Ultra Z Trekking Poles on all of my upcoming hikes and backpacking trips.
I hope that a lot more people catch onto this brand. I personally have no critiques, complaints or suggestions about these. 10 out of a 10!
* This post is not sponsored or swayed in any way by MontemLife.com, or any individual/company. All of my reviews are non-bias and based on my personal experience/opinions of the product i’m testing.
Looking to purchase the Montem Ultra Z Trekking Poles?
Please consider purchasing from my Amazon Links below. Your generosity in purchasing from these links give me a bit of a kickback to fund trips, in which I test this gear.
15% off at MontemLife.com
You can also head over to MontemLife.com right now and use the coupon code “awaken” for 15% Off. Thanks to Montem for being awesome in offering this discount to my viewers.
