The poles are exactly as described. Weight is decent and strength is good. Best thing is the locking mechanism. No slip what-so-ever. Looking forward to using them this summer. I use Black Diamond cross country ski poles and was expecting the same high quality. Got what I was expecting
These poles were bought after returning top another brand that could not hold up. They have been exceptional! The extra grip pad on the neck is reall helpful when scambling, etc. I dont use lanyards much and the grip extension allows easy adjustment of hold when terrain underfoot changes quickly and vastly. The cork tops are extremely comfortable to me, whether in heat or cold. Length adjustment is quick and easy and so far, no problem with slippage at all. They went thru quite a test on a trip to ID/WY and saved my ass!--and hips/knees!!