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.
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
Nachhaltigkeit durch Langlebigkeit - 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
Nachhaltig hergestellt - 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.