NEW 21/04/2017
Choosing the best new pair of trekking poles can be daunting when confronted with dozens of models, but by working out what type of pole user you are, combined with your size and personal preferences, it should be possible to narrow down your options to a small short-list of models.
All trekking poles, whatever their construction or appearance, perform the same functions:
Making an appropriate choice of model of pole that suits the size, weight, usage and preferences of the user will enable the most effective use of the poles, as well as being more pleasant to use and presenting fewer ownership issues.
As well as the information below we also have a general Frequently Asked Questions page on all aspects of LEKI Trekking and Nordic Walking Poles: FAQ
SMALLER USERS
Up to 170cm (5ft 7in) tall, particularly female users or those with small hands.
These recommended poles are those models specifically made for smaller users. Most other poles can be used at smaller lengths and may be preferred due to a particular feature, such as grip type or budget limitations.
Day Walker:
Hill walkers on more commonly used trails or lowland walkers
Mountain Walker:
More adventurous hikers regularly visiting high mountains. Multi-day trips.
REGULAR USERS
160cm (5ft 3in) to 180cm (5ft 11in) and average build.
Some users may find the extra rigidity and toughness of poles designed for larger people may be worth the sacrifice of carrying extra weight.
Day Walker:
Hill walkers on more commonly used trails or lowland walkers.
Corklite & Corklite AS
Thermolite XL & Thermolite XL AS
Albula Lite & Albula Lite Vertical
Budget Options:
Voyager, Trail & Trail AS
Ultralight Walkers:
Users who demand the lightest gear.
Mountain Walker:
More adventurous hikers regularly visiting high mountains. Multi-day trips.
Tough Terrain Walkers:
Hikers in remote wilderness on rough unbroken terrain. These users may benefit from the extra rigidity and toughness of a heavier pole.
Khumbu & Khumbu AS
Sherpa XL, Sherpa XL AS and Sherpa XL Vertical
Makalu
Budget Options:
Voyager, Trail and Trail AS
Larger and Heavier Users
178cm (5ft 10in) and above particularly of heavier build or carrying large loads.
Users wanting a smaller and lighter pole may find the limitations of shorter maximum length of poles designed for smaller people to be acceptable.
Day Walker:
Hill walkers on more commonly used trails or lowland walkers
Khumbu & Khumbu AS
Sherpa XL, Sherpa XL AS and Sherpa XL Vertical
Makalu
Budget Options:
Voyager, Trail and Trail AS
Mountain Walker:
More adventurous hikers regularly visiting high mountains. Multi-day trips.
Ultralight Walkers:
Users who demand the lightest gear.
The grip of a pole is your point of contact and so is vital for day-long comfort.
LEKI have developed a range of grips to suit most users of trekking poles and while there is no wrong type of grip for any pole use, getting the one that suits your preference will help you enjoy using your poles.
ANTISHOCK
Probably THE big question when choosing a new pair of trekking poles. Do I need (or want) any form of antishock built in to my poles? The answer can only be: It is down to your personal preference.
Some walkers, after using a pole with antishock will not use a pole without it; some will not consider a pole that has it "on principal".
FOR:
AGAINST:
