Running poles are one of those kit choices that seems optional until you've used them on a long climb – then they're non-negotiable. The range here covers two of the best names going. Leki's Cross Trail carbon poles are built for speed-oriented mountain movement, with folding and telescopic options that collapse small enough to stow between uphills, and their Cross Shark grip system for confident cadence control. Black Diamond's carbon running poles are among the lightest available, with speed cone deployment for rapid mid-run assembly. Both brands bring serious mountain credentials and repairable, long-lasting construction to a category where quality really does make the difference.