what would be the best poles for trailing running/ ultras

I've used four or five different models of trekking poles trail running in the past two months and the BD Trail Shock poles would be at the bottom of the list. Why? Because there are better BD poles out there. My biggest problem with the Trail Shock poles would be the Trail Shocks themselves. Why would you want to loose energy while trail running?! Plus, the multiple phase shocks add more weight than is needed when trail running. I'd only use a shock based pole if I was dealing with an injury which would require me to walk down hill, otherwise give up the shocks and look for a stiff pole, such as a pair of the BD Alpine Carbon Solos! I hope that helps. http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Black-Diamond-Alpine-Carbon-Solo-Trekking-Pole/BLD0411M.html

Hey Bev, I've used this model in countless number of 5+ hour runs in the Wasatch and several 50k/50 milers: http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/LEK0081/LEKI-Carbonlite-Aergon-Antishock-Trekking-Poles-1-Pair.html I've been very happy with their performance. They are easy to adjust, very lightweight, and in my opinion, give you an advantage in those tough climbs you may encounter in any mountain race. Unfortunately, it looks like we don't have any left in stock. That said, I stand behind LEKI poles... I love their locking mechanisms and shock absorbing abilities. I don't know if there are any trekking poles specifically made for ultras, but I'd check out these other models by LEKI, as they are lightweight and are simple to manage: http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/LEKI-Diva-Aergon-Antishock-Trekking-Poles-1-Pair-Womens/LEK0084M.html http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/LEKI-Devine-Aergon-XL-Antishock-Trekking-Poles-1-Pair-Womens/LEK0083M.html I've tried both the flip-lock offered by the Black Diamond poles and the twist lock offered by the LEKI poles, and I have to say I like the twist lock much better. Just a personal preference. Hope this helps!

The Black Diamond Trail shock poles are a tad heavy but extremely strong/durable and the FlickLock adjustability will provide you with very wise choice for ultras. Your first instinct may be to go with a super thin lightweight pole but when running you’ll want something durable which you can actually lean on and trust especially late in the day of an Ultra.