OutdoorGearLab

The MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon is a lightweight and compact carbon-fiber pole that folds down to a small size to fit easily into a backpack, earning our recommendation for the best splitboarding pole. These poles have 20 centimeters of length adjustment, which is plenty for the uphill, as well as excellent secondary grips and padded wrist straps. They also have large powder baskets which help when touring on those deep powder days. An incredibly low swing weight helps save energy, and at the top of the skin track, they disappear into a pack for the ride down with a collapsed length of just 14.25 inches—the smallest packed size we have ever tested. These poles are the total package for splitboarding: comfortable on the way up, and nonexistent on the ride back down. As a bonus, these are also some of the least expensive, high-quality collapsible poles on the market.
One major downside to the Dynalock Ascent Carbon is durability. These poles have carbon shafts, which are light, but not as strong as aluminum. They stand up to uphill skinning, but they won't take a beating on the way down if used by skiers. They are also slightly unwieldy when folded up, and rely on a small velcro strap to stay together. The MSR pole basket is awkwardly shaped, but it still does the job. In short, these poles are everything we'd ever want in a splitboarding pole, just don't treat them carelessly.  

The MSR Dynalock Ascent Carbon poles are comfortable, versatile, compact, and ergonomic. They excel in almost every application. The grip is simple yet elegant, and the length adjustment mechanism is strong and reliable. They have a remarkably light swing weight, feeling ounces lighter than their weight on the scale, and are ideal for backpacking and long-distance thru-hiking. They pack down small and have a light feel that our testers appreciated after hours on the trail.
There are lighter options on the market for the weight-obsessed, and there are more durable options for trekkers to remote corners of the globe. But for 95 percent of users, and for those who want one pole to do it all, no matter the season, we recommend these poles. 
Read more: MSR Dynalock Ascent Carbon review

Ascent Pole Comparison