In the why-not category, DG Industries’ Trek Talonz (www.dgioutdoors.com) are essentially pole baskets that provide grip. Now it’s rare for me that a trekking pole ever skates out once planted. The traditional monopoint seems to do the job 99 percent of the time.

But Trek Talonz work just like regular pole baskets, and for that 1 percent of the time when the terrain is iffy and your pole might slip—say you’re on ice in a chute, or hopping on polished talus—these baskets might just save you from slipping.

I’ve been testing Trek Talonz for a couple months. They are all but unnoticeable most of the time. But always down there biting the terrain are seven metal pedals with sharp tips, creating stiff and strong pronged pole baskets.

They attach easily to most trekking poles, replacing standard baskets.

The teeth engage terrain while ascending, descending and traversing, providing greater security and more powerful, efficient arm strokes. A rotating-basket design minimizes snagging in brush.

Made in the USA from special heat-treated alloy steel.

$18.95

Trek on!

www.dgioutdoors.com