Built for heavy use and demanding thru-hikes
Leki made their first telescopic trekking pole in 1974, so there's not much they don't know about this particular game. Exhibit A: these robust Makalu Cork Lite hiking poles. The Aergon Air handles are specially shaped for a range of comfortable hand positions, with a built-in positive angle and a rubberised back that makes a huge difference on steep descents. For this model, they've switched out the usual foam grips for comfortable and absorbent cork ones that offer exceptional traction in wet hands. Constructed in rugged HTS 6.5 aluminium for longevity on demanding long-distance routes, they've kept the weight down to a very respectable 254g per pole by opting for a slim tube diameter. The Makalus use a lever lock system which – in our humble experience – is much more reliable and durable than the twist lock favoured by some other brands.
- 3-section telescoping hiking poles
- Ergonomic Aergon Air handles with cork grips and rubberised back
- Built-in positive angle for wrist support
- Adjustable wrist straps
- Tried-and-tested Speed Lock lever system allows for easy and secure adjustments
- Adjustable from 100–135cm (poles measure 67cm when fully shortened)
- Made in robust HTS 6.5 aluminium with slim tubes for a strong pole that's relatively lightweight
- Flex tip with carbide spike
- Includes trekking baskets
| Construction | Telescopic |
| Grip | Aergon Air |
| Grip size | Standard |
| Strap | Lock Security Strap Skin 4.0 |
| Strap size | One Size (continuously adjustable) |
| Locking System | Speed Lock plus |
| Basket | Trekking 2.0 |
| Tip | Flex Tip |
| Size run | Adjustable 100 - 135 cm |
| Pack Size | 67 cm |
| Weight | 254 g / pole |
| Number of segments | 3 |
| Shaft Diameter | 16|14|12 mm |
| Shaft Material | Aluminium |
| Shaft upper part | Aluminium (HTS 6.5) |
| Shaft Lower Part | Aluminium (HTS 6.5) |
| Tip Spike | Carbide |
- Sustainability Through Longevity - Leki products are made to the highest standards of durability and performance, with an unrelenting focus on comfort and security. When a part does fail, LEKI is able to repair 93% of claims
- Manufactured Locally - Made in the Czech Republic
- Manufactured Sustainably - LEKI uses the heat generated during the production process to heat their production areas, saving energy. The warm exhaust air from their compressed air systems is used to control the temperature of the production rooms in adjacent locations
If you’re looking to hike further, faster and for longer, here’s our advice: invest in a pair of trekking poles. Because let’s face it, we can always use a little extra speed, stability and support on our adventures. And if you’re in the market for poles, there’s one brand that consistently comes at the head of the pack: Leki.
We mean that literally. Record-breaking mountain athletes, from sky-runners to skiers, are part of the brand’s elite roster. Leki uses their input to continually refine and improve their extensive product range. Or as they put it: “When the best in the world are 100% satisfied, so are we”.
It’s an approach that works in conjunction with meticulous design, technically advanced materials and state-of-the-art construction methods to ensure that Leki poles are the undisputed market leader. If you want proof, how’s this: the company owns more than 250 patents in trekking pole technologies. Which means that when it comes to build quality and performance, Leki truly are poles apart.
