Outfitter: Poles

1) INDIGO MOJO $80; INDIGOEQUIPMENT.COM

Push a button, slide the lower shaft, and lock the pole into place—the Mojos collapse down to 44 inches, and they refuse to slip. Clear urethane bubbles on the shaft protect the button and holes from the elements.

2) SWIX MACH CT1 $170; SWIXSPORT.COM
The elliptical, carbon-composite CT1 is low on drag and big on stiffness and strength. A plastic piece on top of the grip acts as an anti-dropping device, so you can relax your grasp a bit.

3) SCOTT RS9 $90; SCOTTUSA.COM
Designed with serious gate bashers in mind, this fixed-length pole is made from the strongest aluminum available. Big ridges on the grip make it easy to hold—and comfy, too.

4) GOODE XGS1000 $170; GOODE.COM
With a carbon-fiber shaft and grip (yes, grip), the XGS is so light (3.5 ounces), you might forget you’re holding anything at all.

5) BLACK DIAMOND FLICKLOCK EXPEDITION $70; BDEL.COM
This three-section adjustable pole collapses down to 22 inches, so it easily fits into a backpack or duffel. Its locking clips can be maneuvered with gloves on.

OCTOBER 2005