The Best Splitboard Poles? G3 Pivot Trek Poles Review
When you're heading into the backcountry on a splitboard, the right gear makes all the difference—especially your poles. A solid set can boost your efficiency on the skin track, give you stability during transitions, and pack down small when it’s time to ride. That’s one of the reasons I’m really loving the G3 Pivot Trek Poles. They’re durable, lightweight, and super packable—clearly designed with splitboarders in mind. While there might be better options out there for skiers, these poles are a standout pick for anyone splitboarding who values convenience and reliable performance.
Why Splitboarders Need Specialized Poles
Unlike skiers, splitboarders need poles for the ascent but typically stow them away for the descent. This means the ideal splitboard pole should be lightweight, easy to pack, and durable enough to handle backcountry conditions. The G3 Pivot Trek Poles deliver on all fronts, offering a folding design, a secure wrap-and-lock mechanism, and sturdy aluminum construction for added strength.
Key Features of the G3 Pivot Trek Poles
1. Ultra-Packable Design
One of the standout features of these poles is their secure packing system. They fold down to an impressively compact size—only 35 cm (Short) or 38.5 cm (Long)—making them easy to store in a backpack or strap to the outside without flopping around. The wrap-around handle with magnetic lock keeps everything in place, ensuring they stay neat and compact when not in use.
2. Lightweight Yet Durable Construction
The aluminum build keeps the poles super light while maintaining amazing strength and stiffness compared to other folding poles. At 10.1 oz per pole (Short) and 10.5 oz per pole (Long), they offer a great balance between weight savings and durability, making them ideal for long tours without compromising much on reliability.
3. The Comfortable & Versatile Grip of The Genuine Guide Gear PIVOT TREK Poles
Comfort matters, especially on long approaches up a mountain slope in the backcountry. The extended soft foam grip combined with a dual-density plastic upper provides excellent handling and control. The yellow rings along the shaft allow for quick and easy hand adjustments, which is perfect for changing terrain and steep switchbacks. These small but thoughtful details improve efficiency and comfort during transitions.
4. Multiple Hand Positions for Better Control
The extended foam grip and strategically placed yellow rings make it easy to adjust your hand position depending on the incline. This feature is particularly useful when traversing or adjusting for different snow conditions, giving you better leverage without constantly readjusting pole length.
5. Winter-Ready with Swappable Baskets
While the Pivot Trek Poles come ready for trekking, they can be converted into winter snow poles with G3’s All Mountain Baskets that come with the poles. Other Attachments (sold separately). This adds versatility for splitboarders who need a reliable pole for both summer and winter hiking and backcountry adventures.
6. Built-In Hook Design for Easy Splitboard Riser Adjustments
One underrated feature of the G3 Pivot Trek Poles is the clever hook built into the handle. This subtle design element makes it incredibly easy to flip your splitboard risers—no bending over or removing your gloves required. It’s a small, thoughtful detail that goes a long way in improving efficiency during transitions, especially on steep climbs where every movement counts. This is one of my favorite features about this trekking pole.
G3 Pivot Trek Poles Performance In The Backcountry
After testing these poles in the backcountry, it’s clear they excel where it matters most:
- Ease of packing – Folding them up and securing them to a pack is effortless.
- Stiffness & durability – They feel solid even under heavy use.
- Comfortable grip – The foam grip and adjustable hand positions are a game-changer on steeper climbs.
- Weight – While not the absolute lightest option, they offer a great strength-to-weight ratio.
- Hooked Handle - Clever Hook Design Makes Riser Flips a Breeze
Are the Genuine Guide Gear G3 Pivot Trek Poles Worth It?
For splitboarders, absolutely. They are one of the best splitboard-specific poles on the market, offering durability, packability, and thoughtful design features that make a difference in the backcountry. While skiers might prefer other options, splitboarders will appreciate the ease of packing, lightweight construction, and multiple grip positions that make skinning and transitions smoother.
Pros:
Ultra-packable with a secure locking system
Lightweight yet durable aluminum build
Comfortable grip with multiple hand positions
Easily converts for winter use with swappable baskets
Strong and stiff for reliable performance
Hook on end to help raise splitboard risers
Really are great for splitboarders
✅ Comes With Winter Baskets
Cons:
Not the lightest poles available
Additional Weather Baskets are sold separately
Skiers might prefer more specialized ski poles
Final Thoughts
If you’re a splitboarder looking for the best balance of packability, durability, and ease of use, the G3 Pivot Trek Poles are a fantastic choice. Their innovative wrap-and-lock design, lightweight aluminum construction, and comfortable grip make them stand out among backcountry touring poles. Whether you're tackling steep skin tracks or navigating tricky transitions, these poles are built to keep up with your adventures.
Would you use the G3 Pivot Trek Poles on your next splitboard tour? Let me know in the comments!
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