Ridgeline LB135

Helinox leverages its parent company's renowned DAC TH72M aluminum tubing to make the Ridgeline LB135 a genuinely tough telescoping pole. Designed for backpackers carrying substantial loads across rugged terrain, this three-section workhorse is built for those who value structural integrity and bending resistance over the fragile weight savings of ultralight carbon fiber.

Under load, the difference in shaft stiffness is immediately palpable. When planting hard on steep descents or bracing during river crossings, the poles exhibit virtually zero lateral flex or unwanted vibration. The cam-style lever locks exert strong, uniform clamping force that resists slipping even in freezing rain or grit. Up top, the contoured EVA foam handle provides a comfortable, ergonomic hold that manages perspiration well, while the extended lower foam sleeve makes quick choke-up adjustments effortless on abrupt switchbacks.

Because it relies on a standard three-section telescoping layout, the LB135 will not pack down as compactly as folding Z-style poles, making it slightly more cumbersome to lash inside a small summit pack. However, what it forfeits in packed volume it makes up for in field longevity. Compared to mainstream peers from Black Diamond and Leki, the Ridgeline sits squarely as an uncompromising, high-strength tool that easily laughs off hard lateral strikes against granite.