Skimlite Carbonlite pool pole review

Skimlite has been making professional pool poles since 1954 and they have been my go-to pool for years. The Carbonlite is their first 100% carbon fiber pole and although this sector has some great poles already in it, the Carbonlite may be a pole to keep on your radar. Below are some of their upgraded features.

Handgrip:

Easily remove the handgrip with the push of a button for quick replacement or alternative tool attachment. Once the handgrip wears out simply push in the V-clip and snap off the old hand grip. It couldn’t be easier. The grip is decent and serves its purpose.

Decagon Tubes

Internal 10-sided decagon tubes for superior strength and grip. I like this unique inner tube and I did find the grip superior. It is the same design found in their Snaplite series and it is a great feature. The Decagon shape prevents the pole from twisting while in use. This is of course ideal for maneuvering heavy vacuum systems like the Riptide without worry.

Quick Lock Lever

Ambidextrous lock lever! Easily reverse it if you are left-handed or leave it in the factory setting.  Simply change the lever to either side of the pole to fit your cleaning preference. The lever lock is not bad and seems to be very well-built. Extending and retracting the pole is smooth although not the fastest of the Skimlite poles. The twisting cam lock of their Dually poles is faster but the locking levers work well. 

Carbon Fiber

Skimlite's Carbon Fiber is the only 100% carbon fiber pole in the industry. Made with only carbon fiber (with a steel tip attached) making this one of the lighter poles in the carbon fiber category. Carbon fiber is 3X stronger than aluminum and one of these poles will last you for years to come.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel tip that accepts all industry standard tools. This is a must for a carbon fiber pole as it makes the tool end much more crack resistant. Not that the carbon fiber is brittle but the tool holes that are made directly into the carbon fiber weaken and crack over time. Having a solid stainless steel tip at the end ensures years of use. The stainless steel tip is held on by two screws making it very easy to replace in the future if needed.  The stainless steel tip is equipped with a 4-hole drain for quicker removal of water.

This pole is ideal for anyone who uses a heavy vac system or is looking for a stronger AND lighter pole than the industry standard. A pole made for the dedicated service professional who is willing to pay for the best.

All Lengths Available:

CL8 (8’ extension)

CL6 (6‘ extension)

CL612L – 6’-12’

CL816L– 8’-16’ – shown in the video

CL617L – 6’-17’* - shown in the video

CL823L – 8’-23’*

* 3-section poles

They have other custom sizes available as well but these are their standard sizes and the most practical sizes for the pool pro.

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