Highlander Zero

Komperdell Highlander Zero is a no-nonsense aluminium trekking pole built for walkers who want something strong, simple and comfortable in the hand. Three telescoping sections of 7075-T6 aluminium adjust from 105 to 140 cm with a twist, a cork grip shapes itself to your hand over a long day, and the whole thing slides down to 66 cm when it is not in use.

Who it's for

Bushwalkers and backpackers who want a dependable pole for track walking and multi-day trips: the steep descents of the Larapinta, the boardwalks and mud of the Overland Track, or a summer crossing of the Main Range. The vario baskets swap from small summer baskets to wider snow baskets, so the same poles can follow you into a winter trip in the Snowies.

Weight against durability

The Highlander Zero is aluminium rather than carbon. 7075-T6 is a high-strength alloy, and the shafts step down from 18 mm to 16 mm to 14 mm, so the thickest tube sits where your weight goes in. Aluminium is the pick when poles will be leaned on hard over rocky ground, wedged in cracks and carried through scrub.

Locking and adjustment

Komperdell's Twist Lock sets the length: twist the sections to loosen, slide to the height you want between 105 and 140 cm, and twist back to lock. It has no levers to snag on packs or scrub. Shorten the poles for long climbs and lengthen them for descents, and never extend them past the maximum length mark on the shaft.

Packed length

Collapsed, each pole is 66 cm, short enough to strap to the side of a pack when you need your hands for a scramble.

Grips and baskets

The Trekking cork comfort grip is compact and sturdy, with an antibacterial surface that stays pleasant on sweaty summer days. A padded comfort strap spreads the load on your wrist. The vario baskets change quickly between summer and winter baskets.

Looking after it

After a wet or dusty walk, clean and dry the poles, and store them with the Twist Lock released. Never put lubricant on the shafts or inside the locking system. Komperdell back their poles with a three-year free repair service.