LEKI Traveller FX.One Trail Running Pole Review
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I have been trail running since I moved to the great Centennial State of Colorado some 15 years ago. I don’t really recall trail runners using poles to run with back then. Hiking? Yes, of course! The hiking community has integrated poles for their use for decades. Then slowly but surely, I started seeing the hardcore ultra trail runners using poles. I have gone the 50k distance numerous times, and went 48 miles once crossing a pretty deep ditch in Arizona. That said, when I’ve helped pace my friends at a few Leadville 100 races, the use and prominence of running poles started to become evident.
Nonetheless, up until recently, I still fought the idea of using poles for running. I like simplicity, and minimal running; water, fuel, layers, and that’s it.
Regardless, here we are! I have me some LEKI Traveller FX.One poles to put to the test. First and foremost, I have now taken a big step with the mindset going towards using these as I continue to tackle some really cool trail runs as well as Fourteen Thousand foot peaks. I have a race coming up later this year that starts in Crested butte and crosses the Elk Mountain range into Aspen. It’s called the Grand Traverse with 40 absolutely beautiful miles while gaining over 6000 feet. I am aiming to use these in the run-up all summer during training runs, but feel pretty pumped to use these LEKI Traveller poles during the race as well.
The first time using these poles was on a local favorite trail called Beaver Brook. Denver’s front range boasts plenty of fun runs, but do see their fair share of use. I like this one because it doesn’t immediately climb 1500 feet to get back into the mountains and woods. I also prefer this trail, because it is a runner/hiker trail only. No Mountain bikes due to some serious rock scrambling. Nothing against mountain bikes at all, but here I can focus on the trail, the scenery, and breathing to find that Zen zone.
Specifications of the LEKI Traveller FX.One
- Gender: Unisex
- Construction: Foldable / Fixed Length
- Sizes: 105 – 130 (5 cm steps)
- Grip-strap: Shark System
- Grips Size: Nordic Shark
- Strap: Shark Frame Strap Mesh
- Strap Size: S-M-L (105-115) / M-L-XL (120-130)
- Segments: 4
- Shaft Material: Carbon (PRC 1000)
- Upper Part: Carbon (PRC 1000)
- Lower Part: Carbon (PRC 1000)
- Shaft Diameter: 14mm for most
- Folding system: Push Button
- Tip: Trail Running Tip
- Tip Spike: Carbide
The two tent like poles slide together pretty easily, and then you have to grab the two top sections tightly. Pull apart until you hear/see the click of the button. The first time it did not catch for me, but once you figure out that you have to put some oomph into it, you will get the hang of it.
Putting The LEKI Traveller FX.One To The Test
Right off the bat, we hit a section of technical boulders with some scrambling. Afterwards, when I hit a few miles of flowy smoother trails, I had to put the poles away. The first time, I encountered an easy section like this, I simple held the LEKI Traveler Poles in my hands. I would not recommend it for longer stretches of time. It messes with my regular running style and form. Hence, take a moment to stash them into your pack if possible. That’s going to take some practice for me depending on which hydration and storage backpack I carry.
I’m sure there are studies out there that show that there is a percentage of savings. Savings on the leg muscles and joints as an uphill or as a descent gets the aid of full body assistance with these LEKI’s. The balance of it all is what I really like. I am prone to take a tumble on each and every trail run, and can certainly benefit from the LEKI poles to keep my upright.
The Nordic shark hand system is pretty unique, and can be found on many of the LEKI models. The hand slides in, and the white ring clips into the lip of the handle. It’s pretty automatic once you get used to it. It clips in as that little red parts clamps down. To release, simply pull the red top handle towards you.
The weight of these poles is quite minimal. At 190 grams, the added weight is negligible with the return of mind and body energy savings. This push-button lock system creates for a secure and tight fit, and you can almost swing the poles if you want.
Final Thoughts On The LEKI Traveller FX.One
Am I a 100% convert? No, not quite. I do really like them for certain endeavors with technical trails and serious vertical climbs. At a minimum, I will never banter back and forth with my running friends who do swear by them. I can now say I’ve stood on their side, and can understand their stance. The LEKI Traveller FX.One poles are an extra element in my arsenal, and I like that.
My gear garage has taken years to come to fruition, and now it includes some running poles that hang right next to my snowshoes. I can’t wait to try these out in the winter, now! These are not LEKI’s most fancy offering, but they do add a great value for balance, strength, mental security, etc. I like them, and I bet you will too. For more info or to check out a pair for yourself, visit lekiusa.com, backcountry.com or amazon.com.
