Leki Makalu Lite Trekking Poles (pair)
LIGHTWEIGHT TREKKING POLES FOR MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES
The Makalu Lite, the little sister of the classic Makalu, is your go-to companion for mountain adventures, offering a slightly lighter design without sacrificing reliability. Featuring the newly redesigned Aergon Air grip, it enhances comfort and control with countless thoughtful improvements.
The innovative hollow core technology ensures a perfect balance between lightweight construction and large, supportive surfaces that cater to all the ergonomic needs of your hand. The rubberised grip back of the Aergon Air delivers maximum grip and control, especially during downhill treks. Its inclined angle promotes optimal wrist alignment for precise pole placement, contributing to your safety and confidence on the mountain.
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Size + Specifications
- Activities: Trekking / Hiking
- Age group: Adults
- Gender: Unisex
- Sizerun: No sizerun
- Construction: Vario (continuously adjustable)
- Usable Length: 100 - 135 cm
- Pack size: 67 cm
- Weight: 250 g
- Segments: 3
- Segment diameters: 16 | 14 | 12 mm
- Shaft geometry: No bend
- Shaft shape: Cylindrical
- Grip: Aergon Air
- Strap: Lock Security Strap Skin 4.0
- Grip extension: 1K Foam
- Shaft material: Aluminium (HTS 6.5)
- Shaft upper part: Aluminium
- Shaft middle part: Aluminium
- Shaft lower part: Aluminium
- Locking system: Speed Lock Plus
- Basket: Trekking 2.0
-Tip: Flex Tip -
What we think
At Valley and Peak, we believe in putting outdoor gear through its paces in real-world conditions, and the Leki Makalu Lite Trekking Poles were no exception. We tested these poles on the challenging Edale Valley Skyline in the Peak District, a route known for its rugged terrain and varying elevation. While the Leki Makalu Lite Trekking Poles have many strengths, they also have a few limitations that we found worth mentioning during our experience.
The Leki Makalu Lite poles were incredibly stable, offering solid support and reducing strain on our legs during both ascents and descents. The poles felt sturdy and reliable, helping us navigate uneven ground with greater confidence.
The Speed Lock+ System for adjusting pole length worked smoothly and securely, allowing us to fine-tune the poles based on the terrain. Whether tackling steeper sections or navigating narrow paths, we could quickly adjust the length to maintain balance and comfort. The Aergon Air grips were another highlight, providing a comfortable, ergonomic hold for long hours of use. The breathable material of the grips kept our hands from feeling too hot or sweaty, which was a real bonus during the warmer parts of the day.
However, while the poles performed well in many areas, we did notice that they felt a bit less rigid compared to higher-end models, especially during more strenuous climbs. For example, on the steeper sections of the Edale Valley Skyline, we felt that the poles didn’t provide as much firm support as some heavier-duty trekking poles. This might be an issue for those tackling more technical or demanding hikes where maximum stability is essential.
Overall, the Leki Makalu Lite Trekking Poles are a solid choice for anyone looking for a lightweight and comfortable trekking pole for general hiking, especially on routes like the Edale Valley Skyline. They offer great adjustability, comfort, and stability, but if you’re tackling very technical or steep terrain, you may want to consider a heavier-duty option for added support. These poles strike a good balance between performance and weight, making them a great option for less demanding hikes or those who prioritise lightness without sacrificing too much stability. -
Weight
250 g