The two main types of construction in pole shafts are heat-treated Aluminum and Carbon Fiber. Aluminum shafts are lightweight, durable and economical, while Carbon Fiber shafts are featherweight, stiff, and come at a higher price. Both materials provide a stable shaft, so the decision usually comes down to weight. If you want to minimize weight at any cost, carbon is the best option, but aluminum is ideal if durability and price are your main concerns.

Fixed-length poles are made from a single piece of material which results in a stiffer and slightly lighter pole. Fixed-length poles are ideal if you know exactly what size you want and you don’t adjust your poles for changing terrain. Adjustable poles are perfect for those who want to modify the pole length for varied terrain. They can be shortened for steep climbs to increase propulsion or lengthened for descents to provide more stability. Additionally, adjustable poles work well for pitching tents that are designed to incorporate trekking poles.

In our Trekking, Cross Trail, and Nordic Walking categories, we offer both foldable and collapsible options. Traditional “collapsible” poles have levers that allow them to be shortened, like a telescope, to be easily carried on the outside of your backpack when not in use. Folding poles fold into three or more sections, which allow them to be stored inside a backpack or placed in checked bags when traveling on your next destination adventure. Folding poles have smaller footprint but have additional technology, which comes at a higher price point.

If you plan to use your poles from spring through fall, most of the poles in our line will work just fine. However, if you plan to use them once the snow arrives, you'll appreciate a Four-Season pole with interchangeable baskets. These baskets will allow you to switch out a trekking basket for a snowflake basket, preventing the pole tip from sinking deep into snow or ice. Keeping the pole tip near the surface provides stability and significantly reduces the risk of pole breakage in winter conditions. If you want a year-round trekking pole, we recommend the SHERPA series. If you plan to trail run in the snow, we recommend the Ultra Trail FX.One with the Winter Trail Running conversion kit.

LEKI is at the forefront of innovation and firmly believes that one grip does not fit all. That's why LEKI offers a wide range of grip and strap options to cater to individual preferences. For instance, our Spartan grip, featured on the NEO TRAIL PRO running poles, is designed for minimalism and speed, making it perfect for race day performance. On the other hand, the Aergon Air grip from our Trekking collection is meticulously engineered for superior comfort and peak performance during long days on the trail. Whether it's the unique Trail Shark grip system on our premier trail running poles or the Nordic Shark available on our walking poles, LEKI has meticulously merged high performance and comfort. Additionally, we take pride in offering smaller grips in our women's products to specifically cater to the smaller size of female hands. By providing a blend of traditional straps and cutting-edge technology like our Shark grips, we believe that we have the best pole in the world for everybody.