MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon Review

This pole doesn't seem like anything special, but after our thorough testing period, we were impressed by its high performance across our range of testing metrics. In fact, there wasn't a single thing that we didn't like about this pole.

Comfort

The DynaLock features a gently-contoured foam grip with a simple secondary grip. These grips can be hit-or-miss, and in this case, our testers found that most hand sizes hold the pole comfortably, despite its no-frills looks. After hours and hours on the trail, grip shapes can make the hands sore and achy, but in this case, our hands felt comfortable and at ease. This is aided by the pole's incredibly light swing weight, which makes it a breeze to hike with for extended trips. The padded strap is very comfortable on the wrist and makes hiking with heavy loads more pleasant.

Some of our testers noted that the top of the handle is less rounded and more flat than other high-performance poles on the market that we rate highly. This is true, and even though the top of the handle is made of soft rubber, you can still feel the edges of the handle when pushing down on your palm when using the pole in “cane” configuration. Most testers agree that this is not a deal-breaker, and some even liked the flatter handle, but when we compare poles head-to-head, we notice every detail.

Weight

The DynaLock Ascent Carbon weighs in at 17.0 ounces per pair, which is an average weight for a foldable carbon trekking pole with length adjustment. Other poles on the market are lighter, but generally, these poles don't include as many comfortable features or secure locking mechanisms. But upon extension, it is immediately obvious that most of the weight is in the handle, as the pole swings back and forth effortlessly, compared to other trekking poles with the same overall weight. The DynaLock accomplishes this by omitting heavy shaft protectors at the joints between shaft sections, and by eliminating sheaths for the internal locking cord.

While these omissions may impact the long-term durability of the shaft sections and internal locking cord, we applaud the low swing weight that this design achieves. Most occasional users won't notice the swing weight difference, but our testers would fight over these poles at the beginning of each day after experiencing the low swing weight on multi-day trips. Furthermore, climbers who want to save every bit of shoulder and forearm energy while approaching alpine climbs will notice the swing weight savings that this pole provides.

Versatility

Rarely do we see a trekking pole as versatile as this one. It has enough comfortable features to make everyday hiking, trekking, and cross-country travel more enjoyable. Its low weight makes it suitable for mountain running and alpine climbing, and its small packed size and included powder baskets make it a good choice for splitboarders, especially if they also want a pole that excels in summer use. It can stand up to abuse over time, meaning long-distance backpackers and thru-hikers should strongly consider this pole for their adventures.

Niche users like dedicated mountain runners and alpine climbers might consider choosing a lighter pole, but they'll have to accept the sacrifice in useful features and length adjustment. Trekkers headed to rugged and remote locations where replacement equipment isn't available might opt for a heavier and more durable aluminum pole. That said, our testers wouldn't hesitate to use this pole on expeditions to snowy environments like Denali, where use on rock is limited.

Locking and Adjustability

Three-section telescoping poles feature a small button that pops out through the shaft when the pole is fully extended, preventing the shaft pieces from disengaging and falling apart. The button on the DynaLock Carbon snaps out with a satisfying “click” and securely locks the shaft sections into place. When folding the pole to a smaller size for stowage, the button pops back inside the shaft section with a slight effort.

The length adjustment mechanism is a thick aluminum lever lock, providing a standard 20 cm of length adjustment, which is plenty for most uses. Unique to this pole is a small metal adjustment dial that is embedded into the lever and is easily manipulated with a gloved hand. This tightness adjustment knob is intuitive and prevents the need for a separate tool to tighten the lever lock. We like this feature a lot.

Packed Size

Foldable poles pack down dramatically smaller than telescoping poles, and most options on the market feature this design, including the DynaLock. This pole folds down to a length of 14 inches, which is on the more compact size of the products in this category. It easily fits into backpacks and luggage, and also can be strapped onto the outside of packs for faster transitions.

When it comes to packed size, smaller is better. The DynaLock packs small enough to be used by alpine climbers and backcountry snowboarders, who often carry small packs and need compact equipment. Packed size is less of an issue for backpackers and hikers, who will rarely collapse their poles during use. But when returning to the trailhead at the end of an extended mission, all users will appreciate the benefits of a compactly folding pole that fits easily into tote bags and the trunks of cars.

Construction Quality

During our testing period, we had no major issues with the DynaLock. The grip components are strong and well-constructed, and the strap is robust. The shaft sections feel strong and don't bend when weighted. Our testers have snapped carbon poles in the past when banging them harshly against the sharp edges of skis and rocks, or when getting them caught between boulders in talus piles. We expect this pole to be susceptible to similar extreme trauma. But for most normal use, we are confident that this pole will last a long time.

Carbon is more prone to chipping than aluminum, and in an effort to save weight, this pole does not include reinforcements or metal buffers to prevent wear and tear on the section ends where they meet. Over time, we expect the carbon edges to round and maybe chip along these joints, but probably not in a catastrophic way. That said, other poles on the market have more features to prevent carbon from eroding and chipping. This is purely speculative and based on our robust experience with carbon trekking poles.

Should You Buy the MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon?

In our opinion, this is the best trekking pole on the market. It has outstanding performance across the board, and comes at a fair price. It isn't the lightest pole on the market, nor is it the most durable, but it is extremely versatile and easy to use. Everyone from keen hikers and backpackers to mountain runners and alpine climbers (and even backcountry skiers and splitboarders) will find this pole to be a reliable companion in the backcountry. Occasional users should look elsewhere for something a bit less expensive, and those embarking on rugged treks will want something more durable.

What Other Trekking Poles Should You Consider?

The DynaLock Ascent Carbon is our top recommendation for most users. However, if you are looking for something a bit more sturdy for heavy-duty use in remote destinations, the Black Diamond Pursuit will take you to the ends of the earth without breaking. The Trekology Trek-Z 2.0 is fairly similar to the DynaLock, but provides more durability thanks to aluminum construction, and comes at a much lower price, though it weighs significantly more. If you want the lightest foldable pole on the market, the Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z is for you, while the Black Diamond Distance Z provides the best blend of lightweight, foldable, and durable performance in a more affordable package.