Gear Review - REI Ascent SL Trekking Poles

August 13th, 2007 Wade

Our female gear tester, Elizabeth, is at it again. This time she’s testing some versatile trekking poles REI sent. Here’s what she had to say about them…

REI Ascent SL

Price - $99.95 at REI.com

Weight - 20 oz.

Material - Aluminum

Length - 27.5-55″

Grip - Foam/Rubber

The REI Ascent SL is designed for people of short stature and smaller hand size. It is made by Komperdell and has an On/Off Shocksystem. Like most trekking poles, it ajusts in two places but unlike other poles I’ve tested, it has a double lock system and the open/close twist is clearly labeled.

I especially liked the contoured grips because after sweating for 8 miles I was blister free and the black sponge grips were not saturated. I did find myself having to wiggle my pinky and ring finger because they took a lot of continuous pressure since the grips were a bit too spread out for my hands. I would call the REI Ascents unisex and not specifically designed for women.

Another nice feature I enjoyed was the Shocklight on/off system. I normally use poles that don’t have an option and found the versatility of the REI poles very useful. Personal preference tends to drive buying trends so why not have a pole that offers both shocks and rigid options.

Half way through my hike I realized I was missing a basket, so it is important to twist them on tightly. There is a tightening and locking twist motion to securing each basket, and I had done it correctly with one but unfortunately not with the other.

Overall the REI Ascent SL preformed well and is a good match for someone who likes having the shock options and who needs unisex equipment such as a parent looking for boy/girl gear or a couple/team that shares. This would also be a good purchase for anyone who rents out gear due to the poles versatile nature.

Stay tuned for more gear reviews, and remember to search through the Gear page on Outdoorzy for more information.

Entry Filed under: Gear, General