Get The Shot

Any photographer knows that camera gear can be heavy, so if you’re looking to lighten the load without giving up a stable platform for your camera, consider the Mountainsmith Trekker FX Lite Carbon Monopod Trekking Pole. This handy hybrid does double duty as a hiking pole for tricky sections of trail and secure platform for your camera, allowing for long lens shots and longer exposures. The removable cap at the top covers a ¼-20 SAE threaded bolt for a secure purchase on your camera body. Mountainsmith suggests a max carrying capacity of 3 pounds, but acknowledges that this is a conservative estimate driven by the high cost of camera gear, so as long as you’re careful, you may be safe attaching a heavier camera setup. And despite all this utility, it weighs in just a shade over half a pound, owing to construction that blends carbon fiber and 7075 aluminum, for a lightweight and dependable piece of gear that’s invaluable to adventurous outdoor photographers.