[Review] The Dynalock Ascent Poles by MSR (Coming Sept. 2018)

I never realized how much my previous “adjustable” poles sucked until I tried the Dynalock Ascent Poles by MSR. These poles put a whole new meaning to the word adjustable. Not only will you be able to pack these poles literally anywhere, they’re also extremely durable for when you get to where you’re going. I was surprised and impressed time and time again by these.

With skiing being my number one use for these poles, my biggest concern was if I’d notice any flex on the way down. Like, when I first pulled these out of the box I thought for sure I was only one awry tele turn away from completely busting these apart. Not only did they surpass durability concerns, they also surprised me with how little I noticed any flex on the way down. The only place I actually noticed flex was in the lift line or if I was skating out on a cat track but I definitely don’t feel like they could ever bend or break just by doing so. Once I got over the fact that I felt like I was going to break them (I mean, they are just so dang light) I was able to enjoy the poles for all that they are.

Coming in at only 471 grams, these Kevlar-reinforced carbon fiber constructed poles can literally fit anywhere. Not only are they light but they fold into a nice little package that makes traveling and other things with the Dynalock Ascent Poles a breeze. I love that the construction is similar to that of a tent pole so while they are very packable, they also only take seconds to deploy. Collapsing the poles down is equally as fast as is adjusting the length. The Dynalock system adjusts the length of the poles. Not only is this system seamless, quick, and easy, it is also adjustable so if your poles aren’t holding their length you can make sure to tighten the Dynalock closure to ensure it’s tight.

One feature that is really simple but worth noting is how easily adjustable the neoprene strap is. I don’t know if you’ve ever tried to adjust your pole straps in a blizzard with frozen hands but it is dang near impossible (speaking from experience with my old poles). You’ll waste no time if you need to adjust the straps on the Dynalock Ascent poles and will always have a perfect fit.

When you purchase your Dynalock Ascent Poles, you are not just buying a piece of gear only to be used during the winter months. These poles can be used year round no matter what adventures you’re embarking on. They even come with two sets of baskets so you are equipped correctly. I’m not one to typically hike with trekking poles but if I was heading out on a bit of an unknown or sketchy hike I would without a doubt throw these in my pack just to have. They’re small and light and could really help you in steep or deep situations.

The Dynalock Ascent poles are comfortable, light, and collapsible and once you use them you’ll never want to go back to your past. We’re seriously talking seconds in the time that it takes to get them ready for adventure – so you can spend all your time harvesting deep powder runs. Whether you’re in the backcountry on skis or snowshoes, split boards or snowmobiles, the Dynalock Ascent Poles will be your new best friend.