Review of Komperdell C3 Carbon Airshock Hiking Poles
Komperdell is one of the most underrated trekking
pole manufacturers in the world. Barely known inside of the
The Komperdell C3 Carbon Airshock Compact Trekking
Pole keeps up with Komperdell’s quality, offering a cushioning system
designed for long distance, comfortable travel. The Komperdell C3 Carbon
Airshock Compact Trekking Pole can contract to a smaller size and allows for
improved wrist/hand comfort making it one of the more popular Komperdell
poles available.
Features of the Komperdell C3 Carbon
Airshock Compact Trekking Pole
·
C3 Carbon Fiber Shafts
·
G’Reptile grip (for added comfort and
stability).
·
Angled grips for reduced wrist strain.
·
All season capabilities.
·
Airshock anti-shock system with spring
cushioning.
·
Duo lock system and adjustable pole
length.
Pros
Komperdell has never been known for its anti-shock
systems, but the Komperdell C3 Carbon Airshock Compact Trekking Pole uses an
“Airshock” system that increases the amount of resistance when more weight
and pressure are applied. This allows the stabilizing air pistons to give
greater cushioning depending on the amount of pressure placed on the pole.
The G’Reptile grip is also very useful. It provides
an 8 degree angle to reduce wrist strain over time, and it has a longer grip
so you can grasp the pole lower and still maintain your stride without
having to adjust every time you go up a small hill. The Komperdell trekking
pole does adjust, but the adjustments are only needed when you choose to use
them, and a simple change in your grip will suffice the majority of the
time.
In addition, the pole can be easily fitted for
winter use by simply changing the basket, and the carbon fiber shaft is able
to withstand a fair bit of wear and tear.
Cons
The Komperdell trekking pole is fairly pricy,
usually about $75 per pole and sold in twin packs. In addition, the Duo Lock
system is not as popular as the Black Diamond locking system, and may not be
suitable for all users. Komperdell tries to remove part of this annoyance by
changing the way its grip was created so that you do not have to adjust
every time you go up or down a hill, but many avid users will want to make
adjustments easier.
Overall Impressions
The Komperdell airshock trekking pole is a great
addition to the trekking/hiking pole industry, able to provide most if not
all of the functionality that its users need. There are some issues with the
locking mechanism, but the anti-shock system is solid, the pole is made from
a great material, the grips are some of the best around and the pole itself
is able to withstand some harsh weather conditions. The Komperdell airshock
trekking pole is a fine choice for anyone looking for a new trekking pole.
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