What is the best trekking pole for use with a trekking pole tent like the Lanshan?
The Lanshan series (Lanshan 1 and 2) – and similar trekking‑pole tents from Zpacks, Durston, and Six Moon Designs – rely on your hiking poles as structural supports. Choosing the wrong poles can result in a sagging tent, a collapsed pitch, or even damaged fabric. So, what is the best trekking pole for a Lanshan tent? The answer: adjustable aluminium poles with lever locks, ideally 7075 alloy, reaching at least 135 cm. Here’s why and which models excel.
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Why adjustability is critical
The Lanshan 1 typically requires a pole height of 115–125 cm (depending on pitch and whether you use the provided guy lines). The Lanshan 2 uses 120–130 cm. A fixed‑length foldable (Z‑pole) may be 110 cm or 120 cm – if it’s 110 cm, your tent will sag; if 130 cm, you’ll stretch the fabric. Adjustable telescopic poles let you dial in the exact height recommended by the manufacturer. Most quality poles range from 100–135 cm, covering all needs.
Why aluminium over carbon for tent use
When used as a tent support, your poles experience lateral tension from the guy lines and the flysheet. Carbon poles are strong vertically but can snap under sideways stress – a sudden gust of wind or an accidental lean could break them. Aluminium (7075) bends rather than snaps; if bent, you can often straighten it enough to finish your trip. For the Lanshan’s trekking‑pole design, aluminium is safer and more reliable.
Why lever locks (not twist locks)
You’ll be setting and adjusting your pole length at camp, often with cold or tired hands. Twist locks are finicky and can slip under tension. Lever locks (e.g., Leki SpeedLock, Black Diamond FlickLock) are tool‑free, provide visual confirmation, and hold securely for years.
The best specific poles for a Lanshan tent
- Leki Makalu (7075 aluminium, SpeedLock) – Adjusts 100–135 cm. Lightweight (260g per pole). The cork grip is comfortable for hiking, and the SpeedLock dial lets you fine‑tune tension. This is the top recommendation. Price ~€100.
- Black Diamond Trail Pro (aluminium, FlickLock) – Similar range (100–140 cm). The foam grip is warm and durable. The FlickLock is bombproof. Slightly heavier but very robust. Price ~€120.
- Decathlon Forclaz MT500 (aluminium, lever lock) – Budget alternative. Adjusts 100–135 cm. At €40/pair, it’s a great value. The lever locks are reliable, though not as refined as Leki. Perfect for occasional tent use.
Why avoid fixed‑length foldable (Z) poles
Z‑poles (e.g., Black Diamond Distance Z) come in fixed lengths like 120 cm. If your Lanshan needs 125 cm, you’re out of luck – you cannot adjust. Also, the push‑button joints can twist under tension, and the thinner carbon shafts may snap. Z‑poles are for trail running, not tent duty.
Additional tips for Lanshan users
- Mark your tent height on your poles with a permanent marker. This speeds up setup.
- Use the rubber tip covers (if included) to protect the tent’s grommets or webbing from sharp carbide tips.
- Set poles slightly taller on soft ground – they settle a bit.
- Always use two poles – the Lanshan requires one pole for each end.
Final verdict
For a Lanshan or any trekking‑pole tent, the best poles are adjustable 7075 aluminium with lever locks. The Leki Makalu is ideal; the Decathlon Forclaz MT500 is a superb budget choice. Avoid carbon, twist locks, and fixed‑length Z‑poles. With the right poles, your tent will pitch taut and stable, night after night.
