The LEKI Peak Vario TR Ski Poles pair a carbon lower shaft with an aluminum upper shaft, which keeps the swing weight low while the upper section adds strength. The Trigger 3D ProG grip releases the strap across a 220deg range, and the slim, low-profile shape and tacky material hold steady in wet conditions. What Our Gearhead(R) Experts Are Saying:"Shortening the poles for a steep pitch takes one flip of the SpeedLock Plus lever, a lock that clamps the shaft at the new length, and I do it with my gloves on. I lengthen them again when I skate along a ridge."