Chris Morelli Testing the Atomic BCT Touring Carbon SQS Poles in Deep Snow | Photo Kenny Frank Mountain Weekly News
Looking for a collapsible ski pole that will work just as well skiing in bounds as out touring? The Atomic BCT Touring Carbon SQS Pole is a great option. Robust yet light this pole has some really well thought out features that makes it tool more than a stick.
Atomic BCT Touring Carbon Poles
The Atomic BCT Touring Carbon SQS Pole is a hybrid aluminum and carbon design. The upper pole is built with light weight aluminum and the lower pole is made of carbon fiber, creating a blend of strength and light weight. The poles extend from 95cm to 145 cm. Large powder baskets keep the poles from plunging deep.
Atomic BCT Touring Carbon SQS Foam Grips
The pole handles have extended Eva foam grips and a really nice hook for flipping climbing bars quickly. I found the handles to be very comfortable, creating a nice platform to rest your palm on during steep accents. The extended foam grip allows you to position your hands to the right spot while skinning of camber terrain.
The Atomic BCT touring carbon SQS pole features a unique pole strap option. The SQS is Atomics exclusive “safety quick release system” which means if you take a fall or get caught in an avalanche the pole straps will pop off with a certain force applied. For those that like to use their straps this is a great safety feature. I found it most useful to be able to remove the straps with a quick pull for touring days, and pop them back in for resort riding. Another safety feature is the poles have a reflective surface for night visibility or sos signals.
These Atomic poles tour and ski really well. Very well balanced feeling, and I really like the ergonomics of the foam handle. The one thing I had to do was tighten the adjustment flick lock a couple different times to get the correct amount of tension.
There is a plastic sleeve to keep the carbon to aluminum connection safe and secure. I don’t foresee any issues with longevity.
Atomic BCT Touring Carbon SQS Poles Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Hybrid aluminum and carbon design for strength and lightness
- Extended foam grips for comfortable handling
- Reflective surface for night visibility
Cons:
- Adjustment flick lock may need frequent tightening
- Carbon to aluminum connection may wear over time
Overall Impression
Skiing in the resort or out in extreme terrain the Atomic BCT Carbon Touring SQS Pole ($190.00) will make you feel like you have the right tool for the job. Do both? Pick up a pair.
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