Mountain King Approach
Price: £66 (pair)
Country of manufacture: UK
Weight: 516g (pair, including removable basket)
Colour: black
Length: collapsed: 66cm
Maximum length: 135cm
Material: 7075 aluminium alloy

The Mountain King Approach poles are made in Newcastle upon Tyne and have a quality feel.

They were the lightest aluminium poles in our test, but still felt very solid in use.

Adjustment is internal, with only the middle section altered, with the lowest section at the stop mark.

Altering length was fairly easy, with the adjustment smooth. It was the best of the conventional internal-system poles.

The anti-shock system was easily engaged by a part-turn back on the middle shaft after tightening.

The carbide tips worked well and didn’t slip much on stone flags on our test route. The Approach straps were comfortable, though a bit fiddly to adjust for length.

The EVA handle, which has a velour-feel covering and is slightly spongy, was also comfortable in use.

The Mountain King poles also came with snow baskets which can be used to replace the conventional baskets.

All in all, these British-made poles were impressive at a very reasonable price.

Performance 25/30
Ease of use 22/30
Comfort 16/20
Quality 8/10
Value for money 8/10
Total score: 79/100