What are the Leki Makalu FX Carbon Trekking Poles?
The Leki Makalu FX Carbon are lightweight, foldable trekking poles built for serious mountain adventures. Designed for trekkers who value compact packability without compromising performance, these poles feature a 41 cm pack size and weigh just 252 g per pole. With striking gold-brown anodised accents, black lower sections, and visible carbon fibre, they balance modern aesthetics with high-end engineering. Ideal for hut-to-hut trekking, alpine ascents, or multi-day trails, the Makalu FX Carbon delivers premium stability and lightweight efficiency.
What are they made of?
Full Carbon Shaft
The Makalu FX Carbon is constructed from PRC 1000 carbon fibre, offering a superior stiffness-to-weight ratio for efficient energy transfer. Carbon naturally absorbs vibrations, reducing joint strain on rocky or uneven ground. The result is a pole that feels light yet strong, well-suited for demanding alpine and long-distance trekking environments.
Metallic Matt Finish
The metallic matte coating enhances durability and protects the shaft from scratches, abrasions, and wear. Its non-gloss texture hides scuffs more effectively than shiny finishes, ensuring the poles maintain a premium appearance even after frequent use.
Aergon Air Grip
The Aergon Air grip provides ergonomic comfort through its hollow-core design, cutting unnecessary weight while improving control. The rounded, edgeless top supports varied hand positions, and textured grip zones prevent slippage in wet or gloved conditions. The design distributes pressure evenly to minimise fatigue during long-distance trekking.
Lock System Strap Skin 5.0
The Skin 5.0 strap uses soft, breathable materials to prevent chafing. Its mesh-like texture improves airflow and reduces sweat buildup, while maintaining the durability required for heavy use. The adjustable design ensures a secure fit that enhances pole efficiency.
Carbide Flex Tips
The Flex Tip Short (carbide) provides long-lasting grip and precise pole placement across rocky, icy, or loose surfaces. Carbide is extremely wear-resistant, helping the tips stay sharp and reliable over years of trekking.
What are their features?
Foldable FX Design
The five-section FX folding system collapses the poles to a compact 41 cm, making them ideal for travel, alpine approaches, and multi-day tours. Despite the short pack length, the poles remain stable and strong when deployed.
Adjustable Length
The Speed Lock 2 Plus external clamp enables continuous length adjustment between 110–130 cm. This system allows quick, glove-friendly adjustments and delivers strong holding force for stability under heavy loads.
Premium Locking Aesthetics
The gold-brown anodised Speed Lock lever not only increases durability but adds visual distinction. Combined with black lower sections and exposed carbon weave, the poles project a technical, modern look.
Trekking 2.0 Basket
The Trekking 2.0 basket provides dependable support on soft terrain without snagging on narrow or rocky paths. Its threaded design allows easy swapping for larger snow baskets when required.
Durable Tips
The carbide Flex Tip Short ensures precise traction and efficient swing. Its compact design protects the lower shaft while maintaining consistent performance across all-season trekking.
Features:
- Full carbon PRC 1000 shaft
- Lightweight: 252 g per pole
- Compact 41 cm pack size
- Ergonomic Aergon Air grip
- Revised Lock System Strap Skin 5.0
- Speed Lock 2 Plus anodised in gold-brown
- FX five-section foldable construction
- Trekking 2.0 baskets included
- Carbide Flex Tip Short for precision and durability