I will second what Vilppu said. I've used Black Diamond Distance Z poles in both my 100-miler and 100k in the past two years. For very steep ascents they are great. Probably unnecessary for anything under 50-miles. I've read some reports from sports scientists that say unless the grade is very steep that the poles actually make you use more energy but at the same time, for a mid to back of the pack guy like me, they save my legs! I would practice with them some before racing with them because they will use muscles in your back that you typically don't use when running without them. Cheers - Nick

Finally entered the lotteries for WSER and Hardrock this morning...now time to wait 'til Dec. 1 to find out!

@Nathan Johnson I ran the Run Rabbit Run 100 miler last year for my Hardrock qualifier and the Never Summer 100k this year for WSER since I needed one again for that race. Hardrock gives you two years for one qualifier.

Hey folks! Looks like lots of awesome running coming up for you all. Right now I'm try to rest up and get back to some consistent and enjoyable fall running and will be entering the Hardrock 100 and Western States 100 lotteries in a few weeks here...no luck getting through in either last year so here's hoping! If those fall through I'm looking at the Bighorn 100 in Wyoming in June and possibly the Red Hot 55k in Moab in February. Happy Trails and good luck this weekend Matt!