Which trekking pole is lighter: Leki Micro Vario or Black Diamond Carbon Z?
When every gram matters, ultralight hikers obsess over gear weights. Two of the most popular folding trekking poles on the market are the Leki Micro Vario Carbon and the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z. Both are premium, collapsible Z‑poles designed for fastpacking, thru‑hiking, and air travel. But which one is actually lighter? Let’s cut to the chase.
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The short answer
The Leki Micro Vario Carbon is lighter. A pair weighs approximately 238–240 g (119–120 g per pole). The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z weighs about 280 g per pair (140 g per pole). That’s a difference of roughly 40 g (1.4 oz) – noticeable on a long day but not dramatic.
Detailed weight comparison (manufacturer specs)
| Model | Weight per pair | Weight per pole | Packed length | Lock type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leki Micro Vario Carbon | 238 g | 119 g | 40 cm | SpeedLock (flick) |
| Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z | 280 g | 140 g | 33 cm | Push‑button Z‑pole |
Why Leki is lighter
- Thinner carbon walls: Leki uses a high‑modulus carbon layup that shaves grams, but may be slightly less robust.
- Minimalist grip: The foam grip is very lightweight, while Black Diamond’s cork grip adds a few grams.
- Smaller baskets and tips: Leki’s standard baskets are tiny, reducing weight.
Why Black Diamond is heavier but more compact
The Black Diamond packs down to 33 cm vs. Leki’s 40 cm. The extra 7 cm of collapsed length in the Leki is due to longer folded section lengths. Black Diamond achieves the shorter pack size by using slightly thicker wall sections (hence more weight). So, you trade weight for packability.
Real‑world considerations beyond weight
- Adjustability: Leki Micro Vario has a SpeedLock flick lock on the top section, allowing 20 cm of length adjustment (105–125 cm). Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z is fixed length (choose 105, 115, 125 cm). For hikers who vary terrain, Leki’s adjustability is a major plus.
- Durability: Both are carbon and can snap under lateral stress. However, Black Diamond’s slightly thicker walls may survive a bit more abuse. For rough Brazilian quartzite, neither is ideal – aluminium is safer.
- Price: In Brazil, both are expensive. Leki Micro Vario Carbon is around R$700–900, Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z R$650–800. Leki is often harder to find locally.
- Grip: Black Diamond uses cork (comfortable, sweat‑absorbent). Leki uses foam (lightweight, less durable).
Which one should you choose?
- Choose Leki Micro Vario Carbon if: Your top priority is minimum weight and you want length adjustability. It’s ideal for runners and ultralight backpackers who hike on moderate terrain.
- Choose Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z if: You prioritize smallest packed size (e.g., for bike touring or tiny suitcases) and you prefer a cork grip. The fixed length is fine if you know your size.
Alternatives for Brazilian hikers
If you want even lighter, consider the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z 4‑section (not common in Brazil, packs to 26 cm, about 260 g/pair). Or for durability, accept the weight penalty and get aluminium flick‑lock poles (Decathlon Forclaz Trek 500, 520 g/pair) – much safer on rocky trails.
Final verdict
The Leki Micro Vario Carbon is lighter (238 g/pair vs. 280 g). However, the difference is only 42 g – about the weight of a protein bar. For most hikers, other factors (pack size, adjustability, grip comfort, local availability) will matter more. If you can find Leki in Brazil and need the lightest possible, go for it. Otherwise, Black Diamond is an excellent choice with a smaller pack size. Both are fragile on sharp rocks – treat them with care. Happy ultralight hiking!
