Ownership
Care for poles and decide when to stop using them
Care is model-specific. A pole with damaged tubing, a lock that will not hold or a loose tip is not made safe by cleaning it. Keep the instructions for the exact product and use the manufacturer's repair route when the problem is unclear.
Inspect instead of guessing
Black Diamond's general trekking-pole instructions say to check for deformation or breakage and confirm that adjustment mechanisms operate smoothly and have proper tension. The manual warns that damage to aluminum or carbon can compromise strength. Do not assume a dent, crack or gouge is cosmetic simply because the pole can still extend.Clean and dry according to the manual
The Black Diamond instructions warn against oil or silicone on the shaft joints because that can cause slippage. They describe using a small amount of oil only on the FlickLock lever pin if the lever is difficult to operate. For wet use, those instructions call for drying the lower shafts fully before storage. Follow another manufacturer's directions where its design differs.Use replacement parts that match
Tips and baskets have model-specific interfaces. Check the exact pole generation and component before ordering a spare. A part described as compatible with some trekking poles may expressly exclude certain models. Do not adapt a replacement that does not seat as directed.Read warranty and repair terms
Warranty periods and exclusions change. Black Diamond currently lists two years for trekking and ski poles under its North American policy, but its terms distinguish authorized sellers, proof of purchase, wear, misuse and repair decisions. Verify the policy in force when you buy. A warranty is not a promise that damage from every use will be repaired or replaced.Use the current Black Diamond warranty and repairs page and the product's own instructions for next steps.