JennyMarlen J Does it have anti-shock absorption system?
PHIL S These poles do not have the anti-shock absorption system. I've read mixed reviews about poles with the absorption system. I've used these sporadically for 3 or 4 years and really like them. Most of the people I hike with have these poles. For the money you just can't beat them!
TRAVIS R No, these do not have shock absorption. Frankly, I don't think shock absorption is all that useful in hiking poles. It's kind of gimmicky. Your natural arm position should provide shock absorption (your elbows are bent and you are striding naturally).
I have a couple of friends that had shock absorbing poles, and they found that they would tend to squeak. I've tried theirs, and maybe I was just telling myself I didn't like them, but the "softness" didn't seem as stable to me. I personally prefer the lightness, lower cost and simplicity of poles that don't have shock absorption.
I hope that helps!
DOMINICK C Jenny,
This set does not have shock absorption, that is actually a selling point on this pole. My fiancee and I both prefer no shock absorption as we use them for snowshoeing as well as hiking. The grips on the new models are well cushioned and the flicklock system is fantastic. If you are looking for a high quality pole which will last a long time, I have had mine since 2006, these are the way to go. If you want shock absorption, which many view as an obnoxious feature which creaks during use and adds weight, then you will have to look elsewhere.
-Dominick
CHRIS F These don't have anti-shock. I have a pair of anti-shock but use the Black Diamonds most often. They've proven lightweight, effective and reliable.
MARK N Hey Jenny....
I am sad to tell you that Mark passed away in Feb. 2011....leukemia.
We have two pair of trail poles, and I lent one set to some friends. The set I have with me may or may not be the ones Mark purchased in Bend. They do not have anti-shock system. BD Carbon Cork/Flicklock. I like them. Just can't recall the specifics about the other pair and friends are out of town.
I have a single Leki pole which does have anit-shock feature, and like it alot, too.
Happy trails.
Connie
PAMELA S No there is no anti-shock system. I had looked for poles with such and system and in the end got these based on good reviews and just getting tired of on-line shopping. I haven't used them that much. An anti-shock system is probably a good feature but these are good poles for the money.
ROBERT C Nope. But I think anti shock is bad because it removes energy that takes off the weight or allows you to push off. These are great poles, took me up Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop!