Best Leki Walking Poles in the UK

Leki makes some of the best walking poles you can buy. They’re strong, light, and comfortable to use. This article will help you find the perfect Leki sticks for your adventures. We’ll look at different types of poles, their pros and cons, and what to consider when choosing the right pair. Whether you’re a casual hiker or a seasoned explorer, we’ll help you find the Leki poles in the UK market that are right for you.

1. Makalu FX Carbon

LEKI Makalu FX Carbon
Weight (pair): 498g
Shaft material: Carbon
Grip: Foam
Locking mechanism: External Lever Lock

The LEKI Makalu FX Carbon poles are great for hikers who want lightweight, compact gear. They fold into three parts, making them easy to pack. The grips are comfortable and the poles adjust quickly. They feel strong when going uphill. The poles come with a bag for storage.

I was worried about the poles being too loose with so many parts. I tested them on a challenging hike. They held up going uphill but slipped downhill. Tightening them helped. These poles are good, but make sure to tighten them completely before a tough hike.

Overall, the LEKI Makalu FX Carbon poles are a good choice for hikers who want lightweight, packable poles. The locking system needs some adjusting to feel secure. The grips are comfortable and the poles are easy to use. If you’re willing to spend extra time tightening the poles, they can handle challenging hikes.

Pros: Lightweight and compact design, comfortable grips, easy length adjustment.

Cons: Locking mechanism requires frequent tightening, can be slippery downhill.

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2. Wanderfreund Speedlock

Wanderfreund Speedlock
Weight (pair): 246g
Shaft material: 100% high-modulus carbon
Grip: Rubber
Locking mechanism: SpeedLock 2

The Wanderfreund Speedlock trekking pole is very comfortable to hold. It feels good in your hand. The pole is made of strong carbon fibre. It is light but strong. The Speedlock system helps you adjust the pole to the right size. The rubber grip is soft and it does not hurt your hands. The tip of the pole is made of hard metal. It grips the ground well.

The Leki Wanderfreund Speedlock is a good choice for hiking. It is light, strong, and comfortable. However, it is very important to check the pole before you use it. Make sure the locks are tight. If they are not tight, the pole can collapse, which can be dangerous. Always check the locks before you start hiking.

The pole is easy to adjust. You can make it shorter or longer. This is great for people who are of different heights. The pole folds up small. This is good for packing in your backpack. The pole is very strong. It can handle rough trails. The rubber part at the bottom helps you walk on slippery rocks. It also helps you walk on hard ground.

Pros: Lightweight, comfortable grip, sturdy construction, easy adjustment.

Cons: Speedlock mechanism can loosen over time if not adjusted properly.

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3. Leki Lhasa – Women’s

Lhasa - Ladies
Weight (pair): 493g
Shaft material: Aluminium
Grip: Cork/Rubber
Locking mechanism: SpeedLock+

The Leki Lhasa trekking poles are a solid choice for hikers seeking comfort and functionality. The ergonomic grips and inclined handle angle provide excellent support, reducing wrist strain and fatigue. The adjustable length, thanks to the efficient Speed Lock+ system, ensures a perfect fit for various terrains and user heights. The poles are impressively lightweight yet sturdy, offering stability on diverse surfaces. The interchangeable basket system adds versatility for different hiking conditions.

However, the durability of the poles is a concern. The finish is prone to scratches, even with gentle use. Additionally, the lack of clear height indicators in inches might be inconvenient for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Lhasa poles excel in comfort and performance, making them a valuable asset for any outdoor enthusiast.

Pros: Comfortable and supportive with adjustable length.

Cons: Durability concerns and finish scratches easily.

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4. Legacy Lite AS

Legacy Lite AS
Weight (pair): 493g
Shaft material: Aluminium
Grip: Cork/Rubber
Locking mechanism: SpeedLock+

The Leki Legacy Lite AS walking poles offer a promising combination of lightweight durability and ergonomic comfort. The HTS 6.0 aluminium shafts provide a sturdy foundation, while the ergonomic grips and adjustable straps enhance the user experience. The Speed Lock+ mechanism is a standout feature, enabling quick and easy adjustments on the fly. Furthermore, the interchangeable basket system adds versatility for different terrains and conditions.

However, the product’s performance doesn’t entirely align with its potential. While the grips are comfortable, the fastening system proved inconsistent. More importantly, the poles’ durability is questionable. A surprising bend occurred during a snowshoeing trip, a far cry from the expected performance of a product emphasizing sturdiness. To make matters worse, Leki’s warranty did not cover the issue, leaving the user with a damaged product and a sense of disappointment.

Pros: Lightweight, sturdy, comfortable grips, easy adjustments.

Cons: Poor durability, inconsistent strap fasteners, and inadequate warranty coverage.

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5. Makalu Sticks

Makalu Sticks
Weight (pair): 548g
Shaft material: Aluminium
Grip: Not Specified
Locking mechanism: SpeedLock+

The Leki Makalu poles are a standout choice for avid hikers seeking comfort and performance. The Aergon Air handle is a game-changer, offering a superb grip and ergonomic design that significantly reduces hand fatigue. The poles feel incredibly light yet sturdy, making them ideal for long treks. The SpeedLock Plus fasteners provide quick and secure adjustments, ensuring optimal pole length in various terrains.

While the Makalu poles excel in comfort, functionality, and durability, the price point might be a deterrent for some. However, for those willing to invest in premium hiking gear, these poles offer exceptional value. They are undoubtedly a reliable companion for conquering any trail.

Pros: Exceptional comfort and ergonomic design with reliable locking mechanisms.

Cons: High price point.

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Choosing the Perfect Walking Poles: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the Perfect Walking Poles

Walking poles, often overlooked, can significantly enhance your hiking experience. They offer support, and stability, and even reduce joint impact. However, selecting the right pair can be daunting given the vast array of options available. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.

Understanding Your Needs

Before diving into the technical specifications, consider your primary use for the poles. Are you an avid hiker tackling challenging terrains, a casual walker seeking extra support, or a Nordic walker focused on upper-body engagement? Your activity level will influence factors like pole length, material, and features.

Pole Length: Finding the Right Fit

Pole length is crucial for optimal performance and comfort. A pole that is too long or too short can strain your body and hinder your gait. The general rule of thumb is to adjust the pole so that your elbow forms a 90-degree angle when holding the pole and the tip is on the ground.

Most poles are adjustable, allowing you to customize the length based on terrain and personal preference. For uphill climbs, slightly shorter poles can provide better leverage, while longer poles might be more suitable for downhill sections.

Pole Material: Weight vs. Durability

The material of the pole shaft significantly impacts its weight, durability, and cost.

  • Aluminium: This is the most common material due to its balance of weight and durability. Aluminium poles are generally affordable and offer good shock absorption.
  • Carbon fibre: Known for its lightweight properties, carbon fibre poles excel in performance. They are ideal for long-distance hikers and those seeking maximum weight reduction. However, they can be more expensive and susceptible to damage.
  • Steel: While durable, steel poles are significantly heavier and less common. They are typically used in specialized applications, such as ice climbing.

Pole Sections: Telescopic vs. Folding

Poles come in two primary configurations: telescopic and folding.

  • Telescopic poles: These poles extend and retract like an antenna. They are generally more rigid and durable but can be bulkier when packed.
  • Folding poles: These poles collapse into multiple segments, making them compact for storage. They are often lighter but might be slightly less stable than telescopic poles.

Handle and Grip: Comfort is Key

The handle and grip are essential for a comfortable and secure hold. Common materials include cork, foam, and rubber. Cork is breathable and absorbs moisture, while foam offers cushioning. Rubber provides a non-slip grip in wet conditions. Consider your hand size and personal preference when choosing a handle.

Tips and Baskets: Adapting to Terrain

Pole tips and baskets are interchangeable components that affect traction and stability. Tungsten carbide tips provide excellent grip on hard surfaces, while rubber tips are gentler on softer ground. Baskets prevent the pole from sinking into soft ground. Some poles come with multiple baskets for different conditions.

Shock Absorption: Cushioning the Impact

Shock absorption technology can reduce stress on your joints, especially on hard surfaces. Look for poles with internal shock-absorbing mechanisms or external springs.

Locking Mechanisms: Secure Adjustments

Adjustable poles rely on locking mechanisms to maintain their length. Twist locks and flip locks are common options. Twist locks are generally more secure but can be slower to adjust, while flip locks offer quicker adjustments but might be less secure in extreme conditions.

Additional Features

Some poles offer additional features to enhance functionality. These may include:

  • Wrist straps: Prevent the poles from slipping out of your hands.
  • Anti-shock systems: Reduce vibration and impact.
  • Interchangeable components: Allow customization for different conditions.
  • Integrated accessories: Such as snow baskets or mud baskets.

Testing Your Poles

Before embarking on a long hike, it’s essential to test your poles on various terrains. Adjust the length and grip to find the most comfortable settings. Pay attention to how the poles perform on different surfaces and make any necessary adjustments.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select walking poles that perfectly complement your hiking style and enhance your overall outdoor experience. Remember, the best pole is the one that feels comfortable and supports you effectively.

Are Leki Poles Worth It?

Leki is a well-respected brand known for producing high-quality walking poles. Their products often incorporate innovative features and durable materials. However, determining if Leki poles are “worth it” depends on your specific needs and budget.

Factors to Consider:

  • Budget: Leki poles tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, there are other solid brands available.
  • Intended Use: If you’re a serious hiker or backpacker tackling demanding terrain, the investment in a premium brand like Leki might be justified. For casual walkers or occasional hikers, a less expensive option might suffice.
  • Features: Leki often includes advanced features such as shock absorption, ergonomic grips, and quick-lock mechanisms. Consider if these features are essential for your hiking style.
  • Durability: Leki poles are generally known for their durability, but it’s essential to consider the specific model and materials used.

Benefits of Leki Poles:

  • Superior build quality: Leki poles are often constructed with high-quality materials and precision engineering.
  • Innovative features: Many Leki models incorporate unique features that can enhance your hiking experience.
  • Comfort and performance: Ergonomic designs and shock absorption can reduce fatigue and improve overall comfort.
  • Durability: Leki poles are built to withstand tough conditions and last for years.

Alternatives to Consider:

If you’re on a budget or don’t require all the bells and whistles, there are other reputable brands offering quality walking poles at lower price points. Some popular options include Black Diamond, Cascade Mountain Tech, and REI Co-op.

Ultimately, the best way to determine if Leki poles are worth it for you is to consider your specific needs and budget. It’s also helpful to read reviews from other hikers who have used Leki or similar products.