Choosing the correct ultralight tent pole is crucial for a successful shelter setup. The right pole provides stability and weather protection, while also keeping your backpack weight in check.
It’s a vital tool that strikes the balance between strength and lightness, protecting you from the elements and making your outdoor adventure comfortable and secure.
Our guide is here to help. We’ve checked out the best ultralight tent poles, taking into account weight, pack size, and cost. This way, you can make a smart choice when buying.
Key Specs
Weight: 1.79 ounces (50 grams) | Length: 49″ (124.5 cm)
Folded length: 17.5″ (44cm)
Diameter: 3/8″ (10mm)
Material: Carbon fiber
Price: $$$
PROS
✅ Ultralight
✅ Shatterproof
✅ Suitable for extreme weather
CONS
❌ Relatively expensive
Introducing the 49″ Carbon Fiber Tent Pole by Six Moon Designs—the lightest tent pole available, this product reshapes minimalist camping. Created in collaboration with Easton Mountain Products, this pole effectively balances strength and weight.
Based on our experience, the 49″ Carbon Fiber Tent Pole boasts robust construction and consistent performance. It maintains its resilience even in demanding conditions, standing firm against winds of up to 50mph.
Key Specs
Weight: 3.3 ounces (93 grams) | Length: 43.7-51.6″ (111-131 cm)
Folded length: 12″ (30.5cm)
Diameter: 0.47″ (12mm)
Material: Carbon fiber
Price: $$
PROS
✅ Adjustable
✅ Very durable
✅ Small pack size
CONS
❌ Heavier than some other options
The Z-Flick Folding Pole stands as a remarkable addition to your outdoor gear collection. It has been meticulously designed from the ground up with an unwavering focus on excellence. What sets this pole apart is its exceptional adjustability.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and featuring premium carbon tubing, the pole exhibited exceptional stiffness, ensuring consistent performance even when faced with challenging weather conditions.
Our experience with the Z-Flick Folding Pole during the review left us thoroughly impressed. The consistent ability to achieve the perfect pitch has undoubtedly distinguished this pole from the competition.
Key Specs
Weight: 2.61 ounces (74 grams) | Length: 48″ (122 cm)
Folded length: 11.25″ (28.5cm)
Diameter: 0.43″ (11mm)
Material: Carbon fiber
Price: $
PROS
✅ Very durable
✅ Relatively affordable
✅ Small pack size
CONS
❌ Can cause small hand blisters
The 48″ Carbon Fiber Tent Pole by Zpacks is crafted using high-quality carbon fiber tubing and inner ferrules. This intelligent fusion of strength and resilience guarantees a dependable partner for your outdoor adventures. The pole conveniently folds into uniform sections, secured by shock cord and capped with vinyl ends.
What truly distinguishes this pole from the competition is its adaptable design—you can effortlessly trim it to your desired length.
We noticed that after handling this pole, we sometimes ended up with small blisters on our hands. It’s plausible that differences in manufacturing or usage might play a role in this occurrence. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that despite this minor inconvenience, this pole shines when it comes to its overall functionality and performance.
Key Specs
Weight: 2.26 ounces (64 grams) | Length: 49″ (124.5 cm)
Folded length: 11″ (28cm)
Diameter: 3/8″ (10mm)
Material: Carbon fiber
Price: $$$
PROS
✅ Smallest pack size
✅ Shatterproof
✅ Ultralight
CONS
❌ Relatively expensive
❌ Not good in strong winds
The Six Moon Design’s 49″ 5 Section Carbon Fiber Tent Pole is a clever option for those looking to shrink their pack size. Developed with Easton Mountain Products, this tent pole exhibits solid craftsmanship and intelligent design.
Yet, it’s worth keeping in mind that while these poles shine in various situations, they might not be the best fit for certain tents, such as the Lunar Solo. Some users have raised concerns about the pole’s thinness and flexibility, particularly when facing strong winds.
Key Specs
Weight: 3.91 ounces (111 grams) | Length: 43-53″ (109-135 cm)
Folded length: 13″ (33cm)
Diameter: 0.5″ (12.7mm)
Material: Carbon fiber
Price: $
PROS
✅ Adjustable
✅ Extremely affordable
CONS
❌ Not the lightest option
The Tarptent Carbon PolyPole provides versatility for your shelter requirements, featuring a rapid adjustment feature in 1-inch increments to ensure a secure fit.
Crafted with convenience as a priority, this pole easily folds to a compact 13 inches (or even shorter at 12.5 inches with the unfolded grommet tip).
While these poles deliver affordability and functionality, it’s worth mentioning a couple of drawbacks. The 1-inch adjustment increments might slightly limit precise customization, and at 111g each, they could be deemed somewhat heavy for a carbon pole.
Nevertheless, the Tarptent Carbon PolyPole stands as a worthwhile budget-friendly option for ultralight hikers.
Selecting the ideal ultralight tent pole might appear simple, but it’s a critical choice for ultralight backpackers and campers.
These poles typically come in three materials: aluminum, carbon fiber, and fiberglass. Aluminum is robust and dependable, carbon fiber is super lightweight but less durable, and fiberglass is heavier and more affordable.
Many outdoor enthusiasts prefer these poles, especially when they don’t want to carry trekking poles, as it trims down their pack weight ~6-10oz.
This setup not only lightens the load but also enables convenient day hikes without compromising on tent support. It also lets you store gear inside the tent while you explore the wilderness.
Adjustable poles offer flexibility for those who frequently switch tents, while fixed-length poles suit those sticking with the same tent or model for years, helping save some cash.
Don’t forget to consider the folded length of the poles, as it impacts how well they fit in your backpack, especially if it’s on the smaller side. Ultimately, investing in the right ultralight tent pole is a smart move, as these items tend to maintain their resale value.
If you’re not yet convinced about using a purpose-built tent pole for your tent, you can explore our guide on the lightest trekking poles available.
