Makalu Lite AS

The DSS (Dynamic Suspension System) is built into the tip section to absorb impact before it travels up the pole. It reduces peak impact forces by about 40%, which significantly lessens the strain on your wrists, elbows, and shoulders during long descents.

The Makalu Lite AS adjusts between 39 and 53 inches. This range fits the vast majority of adult hikers, but if you are exceptionally tall or short, you may want to double-check your preferred pole height while wearing your hiking boots to ensure it falls within that range.

The Aergon Air grip uses a hollow-core design to keep the weight down while providing a larger, more supportive surface area for your palm. It is shaped with a positive angle to keep your wrist in a natural, neutral position, which helps prevent fatigue over long days.

Yes, the Makalu Lite AS is compatible with Leki's interchangeable basket system. While they come with standard trekking baskets, you can easily swap them out for larger snow baskets (sold separately) if you plan to use them for snowshoeing or winter hiking.

The Speedlock+ is a lever-based locking system that is highly reliable and easy to adjust, even when you are wearing gloves. It provides a secure hold that prevents the pole sections from slipping under pressure, and it is much easier to operate in cold or wet conditions than twist-lock mechanisms.

Aluminum is generally more durable and resilient than carbon fiber. If you frequently hike in rocky, technical terrain where your poles might get wedged in cracks or take hard impacts against stone, aluminum is less likely to snap or crack, making it a more reliable choice for rugged environments.