What are the Leki Khumbu Lite AS Poles?
The Khumbu Lite AS is the shock-absorbing version of the Khumbu Lite, designed for trekkers who want to protect their joints on long, challenging routes. With a length range of 100–135 cm, a 68 cm pack size, and a weight of 250 g per pole, these poles combine the strength of HTS 6.5 aluminium with a Dynamic Suspension System (DSS) integrated into the tips. This system reduces the impact on knees, hips, and wrists by up to 40%, making them particularly well-suited for alpine treks, multi-day expeditions, or anyone prone to joint discomfort.
What are they made of?
High-Strength Aluminium (HTS 6.5)
The shaft is built from HTS 6.5 aluminium, delivering excellent durability and resistance to bending, impacts, and long-term wear. Aluminium remains the trusted material for demanding trekking poles, offering strength where ultralight carbon may fall short in resilience. The slimmer profile of the Khumbu Lite AS reduces swing weight, making them efficient and easy to handle over long distances.
Matt Metallic Finish
A matte metallic surface offers both style and practicality, protecting the poles from scratches and abrasions while concealing wear more effectively than glossy finishes. It helps the poles maintain their premium appearance even after heavy use in rocky or abrasive environments.
Aergon Grip
The Aergon grip provides ergonomic comfort across varied terrain. Its rounded, edgeless top allows multiple grip positions, whether bracing downhill, traversing, or pushing uphill. The smooth, pressure-dispersing design reduces hotspots and fatigue during long days on the trail, while textured zones improve handling in wet or gloved conditions.
Lock System Strap Soft 2.0
The Lock System Strap Soft 2.0 ensures a comfortable, breathable, and secure connection between wrist and pole. Softer than older strap designs, it minimises rubbing or irritation over prolonged use. Adjustable and durable, it allows efficient energy transfer without requiring a tight grip, reducing hand fatigue over extended trekking days.
DSS Carbide Tips
The DSS Tip 12 mm (carbide) combines a shock-absorbing system with a precise carbide tip, providing long-lasting grip and impact protection. Carbide remains sharp over time, offering dependable traction on gravel, rock, or icy paths.
What are their features?
Telescopic Vario Design
The three-section telescopic design allows the poles to be adjusted continuously between 100 and 135 cm, making them versatile across varying terrain. When collapsed to 68 cm, they are compact enough for backpack storage or travel use.
Speed Lock Plus Adjustment
The Speed Lock Plus external clamping system allows for fast and secure adjustments without the need for tools. It can be operated easily with gloves in cold alpine conditions and delivers a high holding force, ensuring poles won't slip under load.
Dynamic Suspension System (DSS Antishock)
The standout feature of the Khumbu Lite AS is the Dynamic Suspension System (DSS) built into the tips. This technology absorbs shocks and vibrations directly at ground contact, reducing stress on knees, hips, and wrists. Particularly effective on descents and hard surfaces, it provides extra comfort and helps protect joints during long treks.
Slimline Shaft Design
With shaft diameters of Ø16, 14, and 12 mm, the poles reduce overall weight while maintaining structural strength. This design makes them efficient and easier to swing, ideal for covering long distances with less fatigue.
Trekking 2.0 Basket
The mid-sized Trekking 2.0 baskets provide stability on soft terrain while avoiding snagging on rocks or roots. They can be swapped easily for larger snow baskets when needed.
Features:
- HTS 6.5 aluminium construction
- Lightweight: 250 g per pole
- Pack size: 68 cm
- Ergonomic Aergon grip
- Lock System Strap Soft 2.0
- Three-section telescopic design
- Speed Lock Plus external adjustment
- Dynamic Suspension System (DSS) Antishock
- Trekking 2.0 baskets included
- DSS Carbide Tip (12 mm) for precision and durability