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Comfort and control where it matters most.
Leki says:
A reliable companion for your next mountain adventure! The Makalu Lite is equipped with the Aergon Air grip. Its special hollow-core technology combines a lightweight design with large, supportive surfaces that meet all the ergonomic requirements of your hand. The rubberized back of the Aergon Air grip provides maximum grip and control when descending.
Our Verdict
The LEKI Makalu Lite Trekking Poles strike a thoughtful balance between low weight and long-term reliability. At 248g per pole, they feel light enough for extended days on the trail while retaining the reassuring stability that many hikers prefer from an aluminium pole.
The standout feature is the Aergon Air grip. Its ergonomic shape provides excellent support on climbs and descents, while the grip extension makes quick hand position changes easy when tackling steeper terrain. The Speed Lock Plus adjustment system is equally well executed, holding securely and adjusting quickly, even in poor weather, while wearing gloves or supporting a shelter.
These poles prioritise durability and trail feel over achieving the lowest possible weight, and I think that's the right choice. The packed length is a little longer than folding designs, but the trade-off is a dependable pole that feels solid under load.
For hillwalking, backpacking and long-distance trails, this is a refined and confidence-inspiring option.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- PAS System - PAS grip with loop without integrated glove system
- Aergon Air - The Aergon Air combined lightness with stability. Its ergonomic shape provides maximum comfort, while the fully rubber grip head provides absolute control.
- Loop - Skin Strap 5.0
- Grip extension - Grip extension for simple grip adjustment on steep terrain or when traversing.
- Aluminum - Aluminum HTS (Heat Treated Shaft) 6.5
- Speed Lock Plus - The adjustment system works via an external clamping mechanism which allows for easy adjustments and offers a high holding force.
- Trekking Basket 2.0 - Compact trekking basket: Prevents sinking into soft ground and can be easily replaced by hand.
- Flex Tip - Robust tip for precise pole positioning and an optimal grip on nearly any terrain.
Specifications
- Weighs: 248g
- Construction: Vario (continuously adjustable)
- Size variant: Vario 100 - 135 cm (67 cm)
- Pack size: 67 cm
- Segments diameter: 16|14|12 mm
- Locking System upper-middle segm: Speed Lock plus
Material & Construction
- Shaft material: HTS 6.5
- Shaft upper segment: Aluminium HTS | 7075 | 16mm | 0.7
- Shaft middle segment 1: Aluminium HTS | 7075 | 14mm | 0.8
- Shaft lower segment: Aluminium HTS | 7075 | 12mm | 0.8
- Shaft shape: Cylindric
- Shaft geometry: No bend
- Shaft cone: 9,0 mm
- Grip: Aergon Air
