LEKI Makalu Trekking Poles Review: Are They Worth It?

Are you searching for trekking poles that offer both performance and convenience? The LEKI Makalu trekking poles might be the perfect fit. This review delves into the key features of the Makalu poles, examining their adjustability, comfort, and portability to determine if they're worth the investment. We’ll explore their telescopic design and locking system, the ergonomic grip and wrist straps, and their compact packability to see how well they perform on the trail.This in-depth analysis will cover the benefits and potential limitations of the LEKI Makalu poles, providing you with the information needed to decide if they are the right choice for your hiking adventures. We'll consider their suitability for various terrains and hiking styles, ultimately helping you determine whether these poles will enhance your hiking experience or fall short of expectations.

Pros And Cons

Lackey Macallu Hiking Poles
  • Telescopic with dual clip lock system for quick and easy adjustment to terrain.
  • Molded thermo grip along with wrist straps for comfortable use.
  • Collapses to approximately 70 centimeters and weighs only 255 grams for easy packing.

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Adjustable Length and Locking System

The LEKI Makalu trekking poles are telescopic, allowing for easy adjustment to suit various terrains. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining balance and comfort on uneven ground, whether you're navigating uphill climbs or traversing flat, higher ground. The dual clip lock system ensures a secure and quick adjustment, minimizing interruptions during your hike.

Close-up of the LEKI Makalu trekking poles showing the dual clip locking mechanism.
Close-up of the LEKI Makalu trekking poles showing the dual clip locking mechanism.

The ability to quickly shorten or lengthen the poles is a significant advantage. Shorter poles offer better maneuverability on steep ascents, while longer poles provide enhanced stability on flatter sections or uneven terrain. This feature is a key element in making the Makalu poles highly versatile.

Comfort and Grip

The Makalu poles feature a molded thermo grip and comfortable wrist straps integrated into the handle. This design ensures a secure and comfortable grip, even during extended use. The ergonomic handle minimizes hand fatigue, allowing for a more enjoyable hiking experience.

Close-up shot of the grip and wrist strap of the LEKI Makalu trekking poles.
Close-up shot of the grip and wrist strap of the LEKI Makalu trekking poles.

The combination of a comfortable grip and secure wrist straps is essential for preventing fatigue and maintaining control, particularly on challenging trails. This design aspect contributes significantly to the overall usability and comfort of the poles.

A hand holding the trekking pole, showcasing the comfort of the grip.
A hand holding the trekking pole, showcasing the comfort of the grip.

Packability and Weight

Portability is another key feature of the LEKI Makalu poles. When not in use, they collapse down to a compact 70 centimeters, making them easy to store in a backpack. Their lightweight design, at just 255 grams, ensures that they won't add significant weight to your hiking gear.

The folded LEKI Makalu poles demonstrating their compact size.
The folded LEKI Makalu poles demonstrating their compact size.

The ability to pack them away easily without adding significant bulk or weight to the overall pack makes them ideal for long hikes and various hiking scenarios. The balance between functionality, adjustability and packability is a strong selling point for the Makalu.

The poles stowed in a backpack showing the minimal space they occupy.
The poles stowed in a backpack showing the minimal space they occupy.

Overall Conclusion

The LEKI Makalu trekking poles offer a compelling combination of adjustability, comfort, and packability. The telescopic design and dual clip locking system make them incredibly versatile for various terrains, while the comfortable grip and lightweight design enhance the overall hiking experience.

Hiker packing the poles away, highlighting their compactness.
Hiker packing the poles away, highlighting their compactness.

Considering their features, the LEKI Makalu trekking poles are a great choice for hikers who value both performance and convenience. Their compact size and light weight, however, might make them less suitable for heavy-duty tasks and particularly rugged terrain. They are excellent for day hikes, and well-maintained trails. Overall, they represent a well-rounded option for those seeking versatile and comfortable trekking support.

Final shot of the reviewer summarizing the review.
Final shot of the reviewer summarizing the review.