The Carbon C3 Cloud Compact from Komperdell is a very lightweight pole, but despite that it is very tough and well-designed. It’s a three-section, all-carbon pole, with the sections being adjusted by flick locks. These are made of aluminium for extra strength, and tension is adjusted by a recessed Phillips screw, which makes for a more streamlined unit less prone to being knocked. The handle is one piece and made of foam – an upper section with moulding to accommodate an index finger, and a lower section to allow for hand adjustment on uneven terrain.
Height measurements are given in metric, but only on the middle section. Measurements are also black-on-black, so difficult to read. The strap is basic, but comfortable enough. In use, the use of carbon throughout means the weight balance shifts towards the upper third of the pole, but they are so lightweight overall they are hard not to enjoy using. The brand has gone for wider-diameter shafts and that results in exceptional rigidity, and so there’s no give at all when walking – really reassuring. However, they don’t accept a standard diameter connector, should you need to join them together for use with a pyramid tarp.
The Carbon C3 Cloud poles collapse down very small considering they are flick locks, but beware the shorter maximum height if you are over 6ft tall. The Cloud Compacts are expensive, but an excellent choice in every other respect.
Check out guide to The best trekking poles for hiking
Tested by David Lintern
