A few years back, I started to know a whole new world of trekking poles and I can't hike without one by now. I've been using my Cascade Mountain Tech Aluminum Quick Lock Trekking Pole since then. During my Kyrgyzstan trip, I couldn't fit it into my Osprey ACE 50 which was a big mistake on my part (I forgot to disassemble it properly). However, that stupidity of mine brought me the opportunity to meet a new one! Let me introduce you to my newest trekking pole in this review, my Northland Professional Aluminum Trekking Poles!
Brand: Northland Professional
Northland Professional is a family-owned business founded in Austria. Gerwalt Pichler, the founder, led the expedition at that time and was not satisfied with the gear and equipment used by his participants. That's when he got the inspiration to create his brand.
Fifty years later, despite not being famous like the big names, it is still in the market with several products. They manufacture outdoor clothing and equipment such as tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, camping gear, and accessories.
To know more and view all Northland's products, check this website in Russian (more accurate than the American website): Northland PRO
Product: Northland Aluminum Trekking Pole - Alu Pole Foldable XT Black
Unfortunately, there's limited information about the product's technical specifications. Upon checking Northland USA's website (distributing company in the USA), the trekking poles are not even showing up on the website anymore.
- Strong and reliable telescopic aluminum trekking poles
- Combination of RotateLock and ClickLock locking systems for quick length adjustment
- A Z-type folding system ensures a compact size
- Lightweight
With an EVA grip and a lever lock to adjust the telescopic section, it also comes with rubber tips, mud baskets, and snow baskets. It doesn't come with a case though yet it comes with Velcro straps to keep them in place.
Available in Sportsmaster in Bishkek (in Asia Mall), I bought this for SOM 5,490 which is equivalent to AED 250.00+ (my local currency) back in May 2022. Sportmaster was running some promotions at that time that I couldn't understand due to the language barrier. So in the end, I bought the trekking poles plus I got to buy a microfiber towel with a 50% off.
Northland Trekking Poles Review:
After years of using this set, I loved it and didn't look back at my old trekking poles (Cascade Mountain Tech). The combination of the rotate lock and click lock systems seems to fit my personality. Unlike my Cascade Mountain Tech, this time, I never had to worry about my pole's length adjusting over time. The rotate lock mechanism of this pole provides a strong and stable hold.
When it comes to the EVA foam grip, I do not have any complaints either even though I have sweaty palms. Used in warm and cool weather conditions, the grip was comfortable either with a gloves on or none.
Final Verdict:
Despite not coming from a big brand (for those who consider brand names into the equation), I think the trekking poles are competitive and underrated. Lightweight, foldable, and a stable locking system, are my new non-negotiable factors.
I still have yet to try a Black Diamond one in the future, but so far, my Northland Trekking Poles are amazing! A little above the average price for sure, but absolutely worth the investment.
