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Black Diamond Contour Elliptic Shock

Hiking & Camping > Trekking PolesRated: ***** by 17 reviews.

O2GearShop.com (Spring 2009)

Incorporating BD's revolutionary shock-absorbing technology, the new Contour Elliptic Shock has, well, shocked the trekking pole world. Built using patent-pending Control Shock TechnologyTM (CST), the pole's progressive four-stage shock absorption handles hard compression without bottoming out. The CST's unrivaled dampness absorbs light and medium strikes without the ineffective pogo-ing rebound of inferior shock systems. The patent-pending external design maximizes pole collapsibility and is stealthy quiet, meaning no more "click, clack, click, clack" associated with other shock-absorbing trekking poles. Additionally, the elliptic shape of the pole provides twice the fore and aft stiffness of round-shafted poles. The Contour Elliptic Shocks also feature dual FlickLocks for solid and sure adjustments, dual-density grip tops, foam grip extensions, 360-degree Nubuck straps, Long Flex Tips and trekking baskets. It also comes in a Compact model, which is a shorter, 125 cm version with reduced grip size for smaller hands.

Features:

  • Adjust the pole height with ease with the double FlickLocks
  • Be easier on your body with the Control Shock Technology that provides 4-stage shock absorption that counteracts smooth and medium strikes while preventing hard bottoming out
  • Enjoy the ergonomic comfort and strength provided by the elliptical shape
  • Get a good grasp on them with the dual-density grip top, Nubuck strap, and textured extension
  • Glide over terrain with the long flex tips and low-profile trekking baskets
  • Sold in pairs

Paragon Sports

Incorporating BD’s revolutionary shock-absorbing technology, the new Black Diamond Contour Elliptic Shock has, well, shocked the trekking pole world. Built using patent-pending Control Shock Technology (CST), the pole’s progressive four-stage shock absorption handles hard compression without bottoming out. The CST’s unrivaled dampness absorbs light and medium strikes without the ineffective pogo-ing rebound of inferior shock systems. The patent-pending external design maximizes pole collapsibility and is stealthy quiet, meaning no more “click, clack, click, clack” associated with other shock-absorbing trekking poles. Additionally, the elliptic shape of the pole provides twice the fore and aft stiffness of round-shafted poles. The Contour Elliptic Shocks also feature dual FlickLocks for solid and sure adjustments, dual-density grip tops, foam grip extensions, 360-degree Nubuck straps, Long Flex Tips and trekking baskets.

Features:

  • Collapsed Size – 68 cm. (27 in.)
  • Control Shock Technology
  • Dual Density grip tops
  • Elliptic Shape
  • FlickLocks
  • Foam Grip extensionsS60-degree Nubuck straps
  • Long Flex Tips
  • Trekking baskets
  • Usable Range – 76 cm – 140 cm. (30 in. – 55 in.)
  • Weight – 664 g. (1 lb. 8 oz.)

Altrec

Incorporating BD’s revolutionary shock-absorbing technology, the new Contour Elliptic Shock has, well, shocked the trekking pole world. Built using patent-pending Control Shock Technology™ (CST), the pole’s progressive four-stage shock absorption handles hard compression without bottoming out. The CST’s unrivaled dampness absorbs light and medium strikes without the ineffective pogo-ing rebound of inferior shock systems. The patent-pending external design maximizes pole collapsibility and is stealthy quiet, meaning no more “click, clack, click, clack” associated with other shock-absorbing trekking poles. Additionally, the elliptic shape of the pole provides twice the fore and aft stiffness of round-shafted poles. The Contour Elliptic Shocks also feature dual FlickLocks for solid and sure adjustments, dual-density grip tops, foam grip extensions, 360-degree Nubuck straps, Long Flex Tips and trekking baskets. It also comes in a Compact model, which is a shorter, 125 cm version with reduced grip size for smaller hands.

Features:

  • Control Shock Technology
  • Double FlickLocks
  • Dual-density grip top, Nubuck strap, textured extension
  • Elliptic shape for ergonomic comfort and strength
  • Long Flex tips and low-profile trekking baskets
  • Sold in pairs

This description was also provided by: USOutdoor.com


Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

Incorporating Black Diamond's revolutionary Control Shock Technology™ (CST), this trekking pole's progressive four-stage shock absorption handles hard compression without bottoming out. Ideal for backcountry hiking and backpacking.

Features:

  • Dual Flick Locks provide solid and sure adjustments for zero-slip confidence
  • Elliptic shape of the shaft provides twice the fore and aft stiffness of round-shafted poles
  • Ergonomic foam grips with dual-density grip topsS60-degree Nubuck straps provide some padding for your wrists
  • Long Flex TipsQ.5 inch trekking baskets
  • The patent-pending external design maximizes pole collapsibility and is stealthy quiet, meaning no more "click, clack, click, clack" associated with other shock-absorbing trekking poles
  • The unrivaled dampness of the Control Shock Technology absorbs light and medium strikes without the ineffective pogo-ing rebound of inferior shock systems

Backcountry.com

Black Diamond pulled out all the stops to make the Contour Elliptic Shock Trekking Poles incredibly comfortable to use when you hit the trail. A shock absorber eases abuse on your arms, and the Elliptic Trekking Poles include forward-leaning ergonomic grips to ease wrist strain. Oval shafts decrease flexing and increase durability. These plush trekking poles even come with dual-density padded straps to cradle your wrists while you hike. Black Diamond added their FlickLock adjustment system to fluid, dependable length changes. These plush trekking poles even come with dual-density padded straps to cradle your wrists while you hike.


SummitHut.com

The Contour Elliptic Shock Trekking Poles from Black Diamond feature an innovative and high-performance shock absorbing system coupled with their strong and hassle free elliptical FlickLock closure system.

Features:

  • Control Shock Technology is a progressive shock that doesn't bottom out and is dampened to minimize "pogo" effect
  • Double FlickLock closure won't slip, is effective in cold weather
  • Dual-density grip top, Nubuck strap, textured extension.
  • Elliptic shape for ergonomic comfort and strength
  • Long Flex tips and low profile baskets perfect for soft and uneven terrain
Adjustment Method:Snap-lock
Antishock:Yes
Basket Diameter:1.5
Baskets:1 Pair
Compressed / extended length:27 / 30-55 inches
Country of Origin:United States
Extendable Range:[Collapsed] 70cm; [Usable] 76-140cm
Grip Material:Dual density composite
Grip Type:Ergonomic
Locking Mechanism:FlickLock
Material:aluminum
Max. Length:56 in.
Min. Length:26.25 in.
Number Of Sections:3
Pair/Single:Pair
Pole Material:Aluminum
Protective Rubber Tips:Available
Recommended Use:Backpacking, hiking
Replaceable Baskets:Yes
Replaceable Tips:Yes
Sections:3
Shaft Material:Aluminum
Shock Absorber:Yes
Tip Material:Carbide
Weight:24oz (664g) per pair
Weight per pair:1 lb 8 oz

View other products from Black Diamond classified in Hiking & Camping > Trekking Poles.

View all products from Black Diamond.
View other products classified in Hiking & Camping > Trekking Poles.

Sometimes, we can't be sure that the product is the same across the stores that offer its, so you may find the same product listed more then once on GearBuyer.com, we these list highly similar products below.

Black Diamond Contour Elliptic Shock Compact Trekking PolesBlack Diamond Contour Elliptic Shock Compact Trekking Poles$139.00 - $139.95
Black Diamond Contour Elliptic PoleBlack Diamond Contour Elliptic Pole$119.00 - $119.99
Black Diamond Contour Elliptic Carbon PoleBlack Diamond Contour Elliptic Carbon Pole$133.95 - $159.95
Black Diamond Contour Elliptic Compact Trekking PolesBlack Diamond Contour Elliptic Compact Trekking Poles$119.00 - $119.95

These are products that have been indicated being comparable to this product:

Black Diamond Trail CompactBlack Diamond Trail Compact
Hiking & Camping > Trekking Poles
$89.00 - $89.98

Option Availability:

Use this chart to find which retailer offers this product in the size, color or other options that you desire. Click on the price to purchase.

SizeColor
Ink Blue
Ink Blue
N/A
Regular 139.95
Compact 139.95
N/A139.95 

Legend

  •     - O2GearShop.com (Spring 2009)
  •     - Paragon Sports

Notes:

Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) offers this product at $139.95, but does not provide any color/size information.

Backcountry.com offers this product at $139.95, but does not provide any color/size information.

SummitHut.com offers this product at $139.95, but does not provide any color/size information.

USOutdoor.com offers this product at $139.95, but does not provide any color/size information.

Altrec offers this product at $139.95, but does not provide any color/size information.

Black Diamond Contour Elliptic Shock Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****13
****4
***0
**0
*0
To see how this product compares to others view Trekking Pole Reviews.

Reviews:

Old Goat Speaks Out On Black Diamond Contour Elliptic Shock Trekking Pole

Rating:*****

For the 1st time, after having used hundreds of pieces of outdoor equipment for backpacking, climbing, fly fishing, biking, skiing, etc., this old mountain goat feels inspired enough to submit a glowing review! First off, I stubbornly shunned the advice of backpacking friends over the last 5 years to give trekking poles a whirl!. Stubborn goat! Heading into my 52nd year, I've proudly humped 70-lb. pack on annual (29 and counting) 9-day backpacking trips into Wind River Range of Wyoming that typically cover 50-70 miles.

This year I capitulated, did some research and purchased Black Diamond Contour Elliptic Shock Poles (BDCESTPs from here on out!) from Backcountry.com. Wow, did they perform!! In particular, their locking mechanism and swing weight. I've seen other models of trekking poles fail friends, with not good results!! BDCESTPs were far superior to what I've observed and briefly demo'd in the past! Stout and lightweight and, again, the swing weight made for fingertip control. I estimate 20% energy savings over the long haul! Well, I felt 10-years younger after 70-miles of trekking anyway!

So, to all the other stubborn mountain goats out there, pick up a pair of BDCESTPs and experience backpacking stress relief nirvana! I particularly felt confident on downhill rocky paths, stream crossings and much easier way to pull weight on steep uphills (easier than grabbing rocks, vegetation, pressing hands on thighs). I never felt like BDCESTPs were going to fail. Finally, very fast and convenient to change length to longer on steep downhills and to shorter on steep uphills. An extra pair of legs that you can depend on!!!

pete.allee2216600 at Backcountry.com on 09/25/2009

First Class Poles

Rating:*****

First of all I want to thank everyone at this company for all of their help and excellent service. I purchased these poles with safety and comfort as priorities. These poles are well worth every penny. Both upper and lower locks are FlickLocks and they hold and I mean HOLD. If they did not, I would either be severely injured or the worst that could happen. A sudden high gust of wind, which is common and to be expected, hit while in a canyon and I struck these poles hard and often against the rocks for stabilization and they did not collapse or give at all. The carbide tips are outstanding. The anti-shock system on these poles are whisper quiet. There is no "bounce back", no rattling or clattering. It is a comfortable system and yet a very stout system. It is plenty stout for uphill traversing and very smooth downhill. It does not turn off. Some people like the on-off but this is the best and most comfortable, yet stable anti-shock for all purpose use that I have used. Personally, even if it did turn off, I would leave it on. The baskets are small but they are tough and work very well. I am hoping to find more in this diameter. These poles may weigh a little more, keep that in mind, but you will be getting some excellent poles. The excellent personnel will be more than happy to help you with any product that may suit your particular needs. Give them a call. I did.

masters_m100138497 at Backcountry.com on 04/29/2008

a must have for rough hikes

Rating:****
My wife & I ( 60+) are regular day hikers 2-3 times a week in the Coronado's AZ & have found these poles very helpful(BLD trail shock poles) in particular on slippery slopes, downhill, going through running water, & to lighten the stress on the knees going steep uphills . The snap on device to set the pole at the right length is easy to use and if it snaps shut you know your pole is set. I feel that I might over or under torque a twist on device. Easy & quick to adjust, a little shorter going uphill, a little longer downhill. They are light, easy to carry flat or to store in the backpack. The shock damper device doesn't seem useful to us, maybe for fast trekkers. The handle is comfortable & the loop well designed, the pommel is OK but a little small and starts hurting the wrist after a long day. We usually use only one pole. Hard trekkers or very fast hikers would use both. Conclusion: A very good pole, a little pricy.
Anonymous at Altrec on 09/18/2009

Fantastic

Rating:*****
Bought these for my recent climb up Kilimanjaro. They are outstanding. Excellent quality. I found them lightweight, very easy to adjust the settings - even on the go. The handle/top grip is super with many different ways to hold it: the strap fit comfortably and is very flexible if you need to change grip mid-stride. Very strong - no buckling despite rather heavy use up/down hill and over/around boulders. Worked great on all kinds of terrain. No bounce and very good shock absorbtion. In extreme conditions (and at high altitude - the straps, froze in place overnight and stayed frozen in locked position for that day's climb until we reached lower altitude and sun where they could thaw out ... so in future upgrades to the product something that does not freeze (!) would be great!!) Very highly recommend these. I am only sorry that I left them in the taxi in Africa :-(
Nicky in NYC at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 01/05/2009

The best Trekking Poles Ever!!

Rating:*****
I bought these poles recently and I have loved them since the day I got them. I have taken them on many hikes through many different terrain. From the simple day hike to the overnight/multi-day hike. The shock absorbtion is like none other and they compact down to a very small size, so I can even fit them in my pack if I wanted to. There is no pogoing effect of other poles I have tried out, which is a plus. Also, the flick locks provide the ease of adjustment without turning the pole itself and worrying about it slipping cause you didn't twist it close all the way. The grips and the padded straps provide more then enough comfort and fit the shape of my hand perfectly. I have no complaints about this product at all!! For the money, it is worth getting!!!!!
Extreme at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 06/09/2008

THE BEST OF THE TREKS

Rating:*****
Well had my eyes on these since they came out, so I said what the heck buy the best and see if it worth the hype. Guess what they are! took these stunning and yes they do look great also on a 7 mile trek. First t took some getting use to how very light they are! very quiet no sound at all! the perfect feel on the hand , these are a must in your backing arsenal . These are amazing on hard ,cold soft ,water ,mud ,rocks etc etc. The wrist straps work so good you can leave them on and snug them tight in one motion! What else needs to be said if you have the means I must say do it!
Trail man at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 03/13/2008

what a pair of Sticks

Rating:*****
Great item. Like always I go to my local outfitter/sporting goods store, take things for a run than go to the ALTREC site. Great sticks the patient locking system is outstanding took them on a 3 Mile Hill hike with changes in Elevation specially the down hill it’s like having four legs. I loaded down my pack to see what the sticks offer and they were great took them off the trails to see how I would do in rock areas they saved me a few times from a fall. If you are looking for a pair of trekking Poles these are it. You get more than you paid for. Thanks and keep it safe.
raymond suarez at Altrec on 07/20/2009

Fantastic Poles

Rating:*****

I took these poles to Peru to hike the Inca Trail for 3.5 days. They were worth the extra money. The best feature was the easy snap-lock extension feature. Others were struggling to extend and shorten their poles by twisting. This was time intensive and, if you didn't screw tight enough, the hold could give. The locking system on these poles made a huge difference. I was able to change the length of my poles without needing to stop my climb. Definitely worth the extra money for the "cadillac" of trekking poles.

Dane at Backcountry.com on 09/19/2009

Quiet ride, grips hold tight.

Rating:****

I bought these poles for use going downhill with and without a pack. They're really quiet and they're really secure, two things that I didn't particularly love about Leki Makalus. Unlike with the twisting action of a Leki, you know when the BD are locked. The grips and straps are comfortable, but I wish the grips were tilted forward to position the wrists more naturally on the downhill (like Leki). I haven't used them as intensely as the Leki's (3wks in Patagonia), so right now I'd saw they're about equal.

mongal at Backcountry.com on 08/04/2009

Great for the price

Rating:*****

Now that on used these poles for a long time:I bought this poles for my backpacking through the AT. The poles let my arms give me more momentum and a greater "push". They also gave my legs a break which was very important. The shocks were what I was looking foward to and I was not disappointed. Works great on holding up a shelter too. I love how they came about on rocks; I did not feel a thing. This is a buy and one will not be sorry.

Joey B at Backcountry.com on 10/17/2008