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I recently got the chance to try out my new trekking poles from LEKI, and from the very first step on the trail, they stood out. Here’s my full review and why they made such a strong impression.
First Impressions of the LEKI Skytera FX Carbon SL Compact Trekking Poles
Right out of the box, the poles looked and felt high quality. They’re made from carbon, which makes them incredibly lightweight but still strong. The foam grips felt soft and comfortable in my hands, and I liked that the lower part of the grip extended farther down. That allowed me to quickly adjust my hand position depending on whether I was climbing or descending without needing to stop and readjust the length of the poles.
They also collapse down to a compact 40 centimeters, which I really appreciated. I could easily strap them to my pack when I wasn’t using them. They didn’t take up much space and didn’t add noticeable weight to my gear, which made them a great option for traveling.
Real Trail Use
I first tested these poles on the Ouray Perimeter Trail, which loops around the town of Ouray, Colorado. The trail itself is about eight miles long, with a mix of rocky paths, steep climbs, and narrow ledges. I was especially grateful for the poles when we were going downhill. I have an old but persistent ankle injury, so I’m usually nervous on uneven terrain, but with these in my hands, I felt stable and confident with every step.
The support they provided really helped me relax and enjoy the hike more. Instead of constantly worrying about twisting my ankle or losing my balance, I was able to look around, take in the views, and even chat with my family along the way. Our hike ended near Box Canon Falls, where the trail turns into a grated metal walkway. At that point, the poles weren’t really needed anymore, so I folded them up and stowed them on my pack. The folding process was quick and smooth.
One feature that really surprised me was how well the carbon tips performed on rocky surfaces. At first, I wasn’t sure they would hold up or provide enough traction on the rough, uneven rocks of the San Juan Mountains. But after a few trial runs, my doubts disappeared. The grip was incredible and even on loose or angled rock, the tips held firm and gave me the confidence to move more quickly and smoothly across tricky sections. I stopped second-guessing my footing and started trusting the poles to do their job, and they didn’t let me down.
Later during our trip, I used the poles again on several trails in Ridgway State Park. These hikes were shorter and less intense but still had some uneven areas. The poles continued to shine here too. Even on easy trails, I noticed that they helped me keep a good rhythm and reduced the strain on my ankle and legs.
Comfort and Adjustability
One of the things I liked most was how easy it was to adjust the length of the poles. They come in two size options: regular (110 to 130 centimeters) and compact (100 to 120 centimeters). I was able to find the right height for me without any struggle. The lock security straps also made a difference on uneven ground, helping me keep a firm grip and giving me more control on the trail.
I also need to say again how lightweight they are. I never felt like they were getting in the way or slowing me down. Even when I carried them folded up, they weren’t a burden. I didn’t think about them much while hiking, which is a good thing, they just worked.
Why These Matter
I’ve learned that having the right gear can really change the way I hike. These poles gave me confidence on trails that might have felt too sketchy before. They let me enjoy hiking more and took away some of the stress I usually feel with a weak ankle. I wasn’t constantly watching my feet or second-guessing my steps. Instead, I got to enjoy the fresh air, the views, and the whole experience.
I also noticed that my legs didn’t feel as tired after the hike. Using poles helped spread the effort between my legs and upper body. It made a bigger difference than I expected, especially on long or steep sections.
Final Thoughts on the LEKI Skytera FX Carbon SL Compact Trekking Poles
The LEKI Skytera FX Carbon SL trekking poles are a great option if you’re looking for lightweight, compact, and reliable trekking poles. They’re designed for activities like running, fastpacking, and mountaineering, but they work just as well for regular hiking, especially if you need extra support or just want to hike smarter.
They’re not the cheapest poles out there, they currently retail for about $209.95, but in my opinion, they’re worth the investment if you value quality, performance, and comfort. I see them as a long-term tool that will come with me on many more hikes in the future. If you want to learn more or check out a pair for yourself, visit lekiusa.com, rei.com or amazon.com.
These poles helped me hike more confidently and enjoy the trail without constantly worrying about my footing. I wouldn’t head into the mountains without them.