TrailBuddy Trekking Poles offer the best combination of durable strength and lightweight portability in a complete set designed for the trekker's comfort and ease of use. Why use trekking poles? 1. Reduce impact of trekking or walking on knees, back, and hips 2. Increase speed, balance, and security 3. Get more traction and points of contact, crucial on muddy or steep terrains 4. Great walking aid if recovering from injury or have balance issues 5. Other uses: - Can deflect shrubbery or act as probe for puddles, quicksand, etc - Defense vs bears, other wildlife - Can double as tent poles Additional advantages of Aluminum 7075 While carbon fiber is lighter than aluminum, it does not perform very well under lateral pressure - common issues include snapping especially when it gets stuck on rocky terrain. Aluminum will not snap. It might bend under extreme pressure, but you can more likely bend it back and continue using it. Additional advantages of Lever Lock Aside from easy lengthening or shortening, poles with flip-locks can also be disassembled or reassembled easily. This is helpful if packing the trekking poles in a suitcase and shaving an inch or two off the assembled length is needed. With twist locks, it can be almost impossible to do this without breaking the poles. TrailBuddy stands behind the quality of our products. Product Specifications Shaft: Aircraft Grade Aluminum 7075 Handle: Cork and EVA Tip: Tungsten Carbide Carrying bag: Nylon Length: 24.5 inches (collapsed), 54 inches (fully extended)