These poles are fairly lightweight but offer more durability than many carbon fibre poles and are a worthy investment for people looking for lightweight but long lasting poles.

TGO Magazine verdict

The kevlar-reinforced carbon makes these MSR poles feel sturdier than many carbon fibre poles.
Pros
  • light
  • sturdy
  • strong flick lock mechanism
Cons
  • Size options may exclude some people
Quick specs
Price: $189.95 / £170 (available from Cascade Designs)
Weight: 442g (S/M)
Length: S/M 100-120cm (36.2cm), M/L 120-140cm (44.5cm)
Shaft: Kevlar reinforced carbon fibre
Grip: Foam, including extension
Adjustment: FlickLock+ softtouch
cascadedesigns.com

The kevlar-reinforced carbon does make them feel sturdier than many carbon fibre poles, and I found very little vibration when using them – even on rockier sections. They come with a summer trekking basket as well as a larger snow basket.

The grip is comfortable and fits well in my hand, but the lower extension is slightly separated from the main grip – the strap to hold the collapsed pole together sits in this gap – but it makes the lower extension slightly more clunky to use. The size and shape of the extension is good though, and comfortable to use when ascending hills.

The top of the pole is well shaped for descents, and the wrist strap is padded and easy to adjust. The Z pole assembly mechanism is easy to use, and I found they were very quick to put up and down. The Dynalock flip lock is a particular highlight, designed so that the pole sections fold up compactly against each other when dismantled, making them simple and straightforward to pack away inside a pack.

MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon poles review
Comfy grips on the MSR poles with Z-fold assembly. Credit: Steph Wetherell

The flip lock itself is metal, feels incredibly strong and is adjustable with a small wheel that sits flush with the lock itself. There is even an indicator to tell you which way tightens and loosens the lock.

They come in two different sizes, and I was pretty much in the middle of the range and opted for the S/M size due to the weight and size saving. At their maximum they are just long enough for me, but the lack of crossover in their sizing could mean they don’t quite work for some people.

Testing conditions

Steph tested these trekking poles in all weathers in the Brecon Beacons and the South West of England. She uses trekking poles a lot when walking, and always uses them on ascents and descents, especially steep hills.

This review was first published in the July 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors.