LEKI Micro Vario Carbon AS Pole Pair

I've owned many pairs of trekking poles over the years - Leki, Black Diamond and assorted others. These are the best.I was feeling nostalgic for the first poles I bought, a cheap pair from Costco. The thing that I enjoyed about those was the shock absorbing spring which made it a pleasure to hike down hills. I looked at the shock absorbing models from the high end pole makers, Leki and Black Diamond, and settled on these. More about that in a moment.There are several great things about these poles. I don't use the feature that allows them to collapse, but it was easy enough to figure out, if sort of counter-intuitive. I love the straps, made from a thin, smooth material - very comfortable. The strap adjustment feature is also super easy. Just pull the upper most strap straight up. This pops up the black rectangle on the back of the handle. When you're done adjusting the strap just push the rectangle back into place. I am very happy with the adjustable length of the poles, as most collapsible poles do not adjust. The quick lock is located on the bottom of the handle. They are easy to reach and you don't have to take your hands out of the straps to make adjustments. And for me, at 5'7", when fully pushed in these are perfect for climbing hills. When fully extended they're are perfect for descending hills. It makes it so easy.As for Leki's shock absorbing system, I was disappointed at first. It didn't have that spring-loaded cushion that I was hoping for. But I came to realize that there is a significant difference going downhill between these poles and my other, non-shock absorbing poles. There is definitely less jarring, I assume because of both the shock absorber and the carbon fiber bottom shaft.I'm very happy with this purchase, although these do have a premium price.

I use walking poles because I have a bad ankle. Then I injured my shoulder and my doctor recommended anti-shock poles to reduce impact to my sore shoulder. I felt stupid buying these, seemed gimmicky, overwrought, and overpriced. But I have to say, they are very sturdy and I like that they fold up to a small size. I like how easy the wrist strap is to adjust. I've noticed a big difference in ankle pain with walking poles in general so I'm going to assume these will contribute to that effect. I have come to quite like using poles because I feel like my arms get more exercise and they're nice through rocky patches, so may as well walk with the best.

I have owned numbers of hiking poles over the years. The first time I used these Leki's the differences were obvious. These are absolutely high-end quality poles in every way. First, I love that the sections do not nest into each other as is typical of many collapsing poles. It provides a clean line and just feels better and more evenly balanced.What is especially impressive is that in three seconds, I am able to change the length without even having to remove the straps from my hands. Speaking of... these straps are so comfortable. I also like the oversized knob at the top of the pole. This offers great assistance when climbing steep, difficult sections. Every aspect and detail of these poles has been carefully thought through. Could not be happier!

Although pricy they are great. Especially when used properly, not like a staff.

The “dinosaur” shaped grip works well if you regularly shift your hands from the normal position to the top (like a walking cane) on the steep down hill. Reasonably lightweight. Sturdy enough. I use them to hold my pyramid tent up too.

These trekking poles are so beneficial for me. I have awful back pain, and these poles help tremendously. I also enjoy how they help me maintain a rhythm while trekking - I like how they help me get into a Flow state and stay there. I highly recommend them.

Beautiful with the blue accent... I have previously owned Leki ski poles... unaware they had the high end market with trekking poles... could be adapted for skiing by changing to the snow ski basket. I will report back following my first hike

You get what you pay for