These Poles Attract
Product: Super Makalu Cor-Tec Trekking Poles
Description: Adjustable, three-section, heat-treated aluminum trekking poles with Cor-Tec grips. Comes in black with a gold anodized finish. Poles adjust from 26 inches to 56 inches in length.
Pro: Integrated anti-shock spring system absorbs impact saving your hands and joints every time you plant a pole. Carbide tips are super durable and also easily replaceable-should they ever wear out, which will take a monumental effort. There is an interchangeable basket system (you won’t want to use the baskets unless you are dealing with soft sand or snow). The pole expansion system is patented and remarkably easy to use, even when the poles are wet. Surprisingly, even in heavy sand and when used in silt-filled rivers, the adjustment system refused to clog-a first in my book for an adjustable pole. The Cor-Tec grips manufactured of ground cork and latex and molded into an ergonomic shape ideal for the hand provide for extremely comfortable and secure handling.
Con: They do add weight to the overall package you must carry along the trail, which is something you must consider before heading out. If you are not using them, then you must carry the poles strapped to your pack.
Comments: Toss your old pair of ski poles if you have been using those to aid your mobility on mountain or backcountry trails. Using trekking poles specifically designed for hiking actually serves to significantly reduce the pounding and stress your joints and back absorb over the course of an eighthour hike, according to studies. During a recent nonstop, grueling 370-mile race in Utah where our team of five journalists traveled by foot, horse, bike, raft and canoe through canyons, across deserts, along waterways, and over jagged ridges, the three on the team consistently using Leki poles reported much less muscle and joint fatigue than the two who elected to “save weight” by not carrying the poles. By the end of the race, everyone was leaning on Leki to get them through and other teams were staring enviously at our added support. Love those poles!
Suggested Retail: $109 per pair
Company: Leki-Sport USA, 60 Earhart Drive, Williamsville, NY 14221; (800) 255-9982