LEKI Makalu Lite Poles Review

LEKI’s Makalu Lite Poles are the perfect companion to support any form of hike whether it’s backpacking, hunting, a climbing approach, or backcountry skiing.

Why LEKI Poles?

I have been using adjustable Leki poles similar to the Makalu Lite Poles for as long as I can remember. My entire upbringing consisted of trying to keep up with my dad in the mountains. He was a relentless advocate for poles, even if that meant his climbing partner called him “old man” for it. Last summer I met up with this same climbing partner of my Dad’s for a trip up Teewinot.

This time, he showed up at Lupine Meadows trailhead with trekking poles in hand. Even he has finally seen the usefulness of adjustable Leki poles that my dad and I always carry with us in the backcountry.

As a regular LEKI pole user, I was not surprised by their continued high function when I was testing the Makalu Lite Poles. Adjustable LEKI poles have always been my go-to and they have stood the test of time over many years. I usually buy a pair of trekking poles and use them year-round for hiking, climbing approaches, backpacking, and backcountry/resort skiing. I never get special poles for skiing because I find these poles to work just as well, and you can change them out for snow baskets. Yes, they are that versatile.

Features

There are some slight improvements to these poles that make them superior to my older LEKI Poles. The grips on these poles are noticeably more comfortable on the wrist as is the fitting in the hands. I did not ever consider my old Lekki poles to be uncomfortable, but the Malakai poles grip’s angle supports my weight better and feels more natural on my wrist. The cork absorbs sweat, which is a major step up, because my pole grips could get very sweaty and even slip sometimes in the heat of the summer, even though the straps keep the poles secure on my wrists.

The pole straps on the Makalu Lite poles can’t be beat. I almost always have my pole straps on, because without them, I will drop my poles—-a bad habit that I blame on being a Nordic skier. Like all other LEKI trekking poles, they adjust easily on the move.

Adjustable 3 Section Poles

These poles have 3 sections for adjusting. I can easily adjust the height up and down without stopping or slowing down. The poles can easily compact and slide into a backpack when not being used or for travel. The aluminum shaft sections are durable and make the poles strong enough that you can take them over rough terrain and put plenty of stress on them and they will not break. This is a reassuring feature you want, especially in remote locations.

Weight

These LEKI Poles are not the lightest on the market (493g / 1lb 1.4oz), but the aluminum used to build them has been heat treated for strength to make them very durable. Paired with LEKI’s anti-shock suspension system inside, the poles absorb vibration to help protect your muscles, ligaments, and joints from the strain of fatigue and overuse.

LEKI Makalu Lite Poles Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Durable aluminum construction for strength
• Comfortable grip with sweat-absorbing cork
• Adjustable 3-section poles for easy customization

Cons:

• Not the lightest on the market
• Slight improvements but still pricier
• May be too durable for some

Overall Impression

Overall, I’ve been a lifelong fan of LEKI and their products. These poles are no exception. They are high quality and extremely versatile. LEKI’s poles have been in my hands a lot over many years and I love them. It was a surprise to me that I could love them even more but with the Makalu Pole’s ($139.99) durability, improved comfort, and natural grip, I do.

This piece of outdoor gear has special significance to me. I have countless memories of adventures with family and friends while gripping LEKI poles. Just as I do not go outside in February without a coat, I do not go on epic backcountry journeys without a pair of good trekking poles. As far as I can tell, I will always stick to rocking adjustable LEKI poles on my future adventures. For now, the Makalu Lite poles will be with me on the trails.

Related Poles

1. LEKI Sherpa FX Carbon Poles
2. Black Diamond Compactor Poles
3. Jones Talon Poles