Leki Makalu FX Carbon Trekking Poles Review: Are They Worth the Weight?

When it comes to ultralight backpacking, every ounce counts. But trekking poles are one piece of gear where shaving weight can sometimes compromise durability and comfort. The Leki Makalu FX Carbon poles aim to strike that balance, offering a carbon fiber construction that's both light and robust. In this review, we'll put them to the test and see if they live up to the hype.

We spent several weeks hiking through rocky terrain, steep ascents, and muddy descents with the Makalu FX Carbon poles. We'll break down their weight, performance, and overall value to help you decide if they're the right addition to your pack.

Key Features and Specifications

The Leki Makalu FX Carbon poles are designed for serious hikers who want to minimize weight without sacrificing support. They feature a carbon fiber shaft that is both lightweight and strong, making them ideal for long-distance treks and ultralight setups. The poles have a three-section design that collapses down to a compact size for easy packing.

One of the standout features is the ergonomic cork grip, which molds to your hand and provides excellent moisture management. The grips are paired with adjustable straps that ensure a secure fit, even when you're using the poles for extended periods. The poles also come with carbide tungsten tips that provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces.

• Weight: Approx. 17 oz per pair (claimed)
• Shaft: Carbon fiber
• Sections: 3
• Grip: Cork with adjustable strap
• Tip: Carbide tungsten

Performance on the Trail

We tested the Makalu FX Carbon poles on a variety of trails, from smooth fire roads to technical rock scrambles. The first thing we noticed was how well they absorbed shock. The carbon fiber shaft does an excellent job of dampening vibrations, which reduces fatigue in your arms and shoulders during long descents.

The locking mechanism, which Leki calls the Speed Lock 2, held firm throughout our testing. We never experienced any slipping or unexpected collapse, which is a common issue with some other trekking poles. The poles also felt stable when we used them to pitch a tarp shelter, which is a nice bonus for ultralight hikers who use their poles for multiple purposes.

• Shock absorption: Excellent
• Locking mechanism: Reliable and easy to adjust
• Versatility: Can be used for shelter pitching

Weight and Packability

At roughly 17 ounces per pair, the Makalu FX Carbon poles are not the lightest on the market, but they're certainly competitive. For comparison, some ultralight poles can dip below 12 ounces, but they often sacrifice durability and features. The Makalu FX Carbon poles offer a good balance between weight and sturdiness.

When collapsed, the poles measure about 26 inches, which makes them easy to strap to the outside of a backpack or pack inside if you have room. We found them to be a great match for the All Day Carry Travel Backpack, which has multiple attachment points for gear.

Durability and Build Quality

Carbon fiber is known for its strength-to-weight ratio, but it can be prone to cracking if you're not careful. We were impressed with the build quality of the Makalu FX Carbon poles. The joints are solid, and the locking mechanisms feel robust. After weeks of abuse, the poles showed minimal wear and tear.

The cork grips are comfortable and have held up well, even in wet conditions. The straps are also well-constructed and haven't frayed or stretched. Overall, these poles feel like they'll last for many seasons of hiking.

Comparing to Other Ultralight Trekking Poles

When comparing the Makalu FX Carbon to other ultralight trekking poles, it's important to consider what you're giving up. Some poles are lighter, but they may not have the same level of shock absorption or durability. The Makalu FX Carbon poles are a great choice for hikers who want a reliable set of poles that can handle rough terrain without weighing them down.

If you're looking for an even lighter option, you might consider the Owyhee Backpacking Tarp as a way to save weight elsewhere, but for poles, the Makalu FX Carbon offers a solid balance of performance and weight.

Who Should Buy the Leki Makalu FX Carbon?

These poles are ideal for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers who want to reduce weight without sacrificing support. They're also great for day hikers who appreciate the comfort and shock absorption. If you're looking for a set of poles that can double as tent poles for a tarp shelter, the Makalu FX Carbon is a versatile choice.

However, if you're on a tight budget or you're an occasional hiker who only hits the trails a few times a year, you might not need to invest in such a premium set of poles. There are more affordable options available that will still get the job done.

The Leki Makalu FX Carbon trekking poles are a solid investment for serious hikers who want a lightweight, durable, and comfortable pair of poles. They perform well on a variety of terrain and offer excellent shock absorption. While they're not the lightest option out there, they strike a great balance between weight and functionality. If you're in the market for new trekking poles, we highly recommend giving the Makalu FX Carbon a try.