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Review

Gear Review: LEKI Ultratrail FX One Superlite

Publication date: 28 May 2024

GearHiking poles

I’ve had the chance to test the Leki poles on some demanding trails and during competitive events like the Marathon du Mont Blanc. My experiences with these poles across various terrains—from the rugged paths of Corsica’s GR20 to the Hardangervidda in Norway, and the Peaks of the Balkans—have given me a comprehensive view of their capabilities.

The first thing that stands out is that they are remarkably lightweight, which is a significant advantage during long thru-hikes and trail running competitions. Their ability to fold into a compact form is also particularly useful. For instance, on the GR20 in Corsica, known for its challenging scrambling sections, being able to quickly fold the poles and stow them away freed up my hands, making it safer and more convenient to go across difficult passages. This feature also came in handy during my travels between hikes, as I could easily pack the poles into my backpack without them taking up much space and risking discussions at airports about whether I could have the poles with me or not.

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Mathilde Fox

Meet Mathilde, a nature lover born and raised on Réunion Island. She knows the island’s mountains like the back of her hand and always has her white dog, Moka, by her side. When she’s not soaking in the views, she’s training for her next trail running competition. Splitting her time between Réunion and Brussels, Mathilde loves exploring Europe’s hiking trails, especially the Alps, her absolute favorite. You can find her on Instagram  @fox.mathilde

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About the product

Despite the brand’s focus on these poles being primarily for trail competition, I found the LEKI Ultratrail FX One Superlite very durable. Contrary to what might be expected from ultra-lightweight poles designed for racing, they held up remarkably well against the abrasive terrains of Corsica and the rocky trails of the Balkans. Their resilience was a surprise that I did not expect.

However, excellence comes at a cost. The Leki poles are priced higher than many other options on the market, but I believe the investment is justified, especially for serious trail runners and hikers who demand the lightest from their gear. In conclusion, while the Leki poles may come with a higher price tag, their superior design, durability, and functionality make them one of the best products available for trail running, hiking, and thru-hikes. Wonder what to pack more for your trails? Check out the extensive gear lists.

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hiking pole folded

About the brand

LEKI is a brand synonymous with quality in the world of outdoor sports equipment, particularly known for its trekking poles and ski poles. The story of Leki begins in Germany in 1948, a time when the demand for reliable outdoor gear was on the rise due to the increasing popularity of alpine sports.

Its founder, Karl Lenhart, was an enthusiastic skier and a skilled craftsman, who was dissatisfied with the quality and functionality of the ski poles available at the time. In his workshop, Lenhart began crafting handles and baskets for ski poles from the best materials he could source. His designs and focus on quality quickly caught the attention of the market, setting the foundation for the Leki we know today. In the 1960s, Leki introduced a game-changing innovation: the first adjustable-length trekking pole. This design was a revolution and allowed for adapting to different terrains and personal preferences, which significantly broadened its appeal to not just skiers but also hikers.

LEKI’s commitment to innovation didn’t stop there. In the 1970s, the company pioneered the use of aluminum for both the shafts of ski poles and later trekking poles, drastically reducing their weight while increasing strength and reliability. This move was part of a broader trend in the outdoor equipment industry towards lighter and more durable materials, and Leki was at the forefront of this trend. Today, Leki is deeply committed to sustainability and remains family-owned, which is rare in a market dominated by corporate conglomerates. This independence has allowed Leki to maintain its focus on quality and innovation without compromising its values.

Specifications

LEKI Ultratrail FX One Superlite
Weight 137 grams per pole
Material Aluminium or carbon depending on the model
Length Fixed (available in various lengths)
Folded Size 38 cm
Grip Aergon grip with Trigger Shark strap
Packing Size Folds into three sections

pro's

Super lightweight

Easy-to-use Trigger Shark strap

Quickly folds into a compact size

con's

Pricier than some other options

Can show wear on tough terrain

No length adjustment

Conclusion

After putting the LEKI Ultratrail FX One Superlite through its paces, I’m impressed. It’s ideal for anyone who values simplicity and efficiency in their hiking or running setup. Yes, it’s a fixed-length pole, and yes, it’s a bit of an investment, but the benefits—like the lightweight build and handy folding design—make it a worthwhile addition to your gear collection. If you’re all about hitting the trails without being weighed down, this pole should be on your radar.

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