What is the best Leki trekking pole for backpacking in the UK?

The Leki Makalu is the best Leki trekking pole for backpacking in the UK. It offers a perfect balance of durability, repairability, and comfort for the demanding conditions of British trails—from the rocky fells of the Lake District to the muddy moors of the Peak District. At around £90–100, it is a lifetime investment for frequent walkers. Here is a detailed breakdown of why the Makalu is the top choice, what alternatives exist, and what to consider before buying.

Why the Leki Makalu is the best for UK backpacking

1. 7075 aluminium shaft – This aircraft‑grade aluminium is strong and lightweight (around 270 g per pole). It bends under extreme force rather than snapping, making it safer on rocky terrain. Unlike carbon, which can splinter on impact, aluminium can often be straightened in the field.
2. Steel lower section – The Makalu has a steel ferrule above the carbide tip. This is a crucial feature for UK trails, which are often abrasive (gritstone, quartzite, granite). The steel resists wear, extending the pole's lifespan significantly.
3. SpeedLock Plus – Leki's lever‑lock system is widely regarded as the most reliable in the industry. It is secure, can be adjusted with a simple turn (even with gloves), and is field‑repairable. Unlike twist locks, it does not slip in wet, muddy conditions.
4. Cork grips – The cork handles are comfortable in both wet and cold weather. They become tacky when damp, providing a secure grip without the slipperiness of foam or rubber. They also insulate against cold.
5. Replaceable parts – The Makalu has a wide range of spare parts available in the UK: tips, locks, baskets, and even lower sections. This repairability means your poles can last for decades.
6. Proven on UK trails – The Makalu is the choice of many mountain guides and long‑distance walkers on the Pennine Way, West Highland Way, and the Cairngorms. It has a track record of surviving the toughest British conditions.

Alternatives within the Leki range

• Leki Micro Vario (£110–130) – A folding aluminium pole with SpeedLock Plus. It is lighter and more packable than the Makalu, making it ideal for backpackers who value packability. However, it is less durable and has no steel lower section, so it is better suited to well‑maintained trails (e.g., the Thames Path, Norfolk Coast Path) rather than rugged terrain.
• Leki Cressida (£80–90) – A women‑specific telescoping pole with similar specs to the Makalu but with a narrower diameter and slightly different grip shape. It offers the same durability but at a lower price. Some men with small hands also prefer it.
• Leki Khumbu (£60–70) – The budget aluminium telescoping pole. It has a basic twist‑lock mechanism and cork grips. While cheaper, the twist locks are less reliable in wet conditions, and the tips are non‑replaceable. It is adequate for day walks but not recommended for serious backpacking.
• Leki Makalu Carbon (£150–160) – A carbon version of the Makalu. It is lighter but significantly more fragile. Not recommended for UK backpacking due to the risk of side impacts on rocky trails.

What about the Leki Sherpa (£130–140)?

The Sherpa is a three‑section folding aluminium pole with SpeedLock Plus. It is similar to the Micro Vario but with a more robust build. While more durable than the Micro Vario, it still lacks the steel lower section of the Makalu. It is a good alternative if you prioritise packability over maximum abrasion resistance.

Why not carbon for UK backpacking?

Carbon poles are lighter, but the UK's rocky trails (especially in the Lake District, Snowdonia, and Dartmoor) are unforgiving. A side impact on a boulder can splinter carbon, leaving you with a useless pole. Aluminium bends but rarely breaks, and a bent section can often be straightened on the trail. For backpacking, where you are often far from shops, reliability is paramount.

Spare parts and UK service

Leki's UK distributor stocks a full range of spare parts for the Makalu: tips (£10–15 per pair), SpeedLock assemblies (£15–20), lower sections (£25–30), and baskets (£5–10). You can order these directly or through retailers like Cotswold Outdoor and Go Outdoors. This is a major advantage over brands like Black Diamond, where spare parts can be harder to source.

Practical tips for UK backpacking with the Makalu

• Adjust pole length – Shorten by 5–10 cm for steep ascents; lengthen by 5–10 cm for descents. The Makalu's SpeedLock makes on‑trail adjustments quick and easy.
• Fit mud baskets – For boggy sections (e.g., the Pennine Way, Dartmoor), fit mud baskets (around £5–10) to prevent sinking.
• Use rubber tips on road sections – The Makalu's steel tip will wear on tarmac; use rubber protectors to save the carbide.
• Carry spare tips – For long‑distance trails, carry a spare pair. They weigh nothing and can save you mid‑trek.
• Clean and dry after each day – Mud and moisture can damage locks. Rinse with fresh water and dry thoroughly.

Where to buy in the UK

• Cotswold Outdoor – Stocks the Makalu; offers expert advice and a price‑match policy.
• Go Outdoors – Often has the Makalu at a discounted price with the Discount Card.
• SportPursuit – Flash sales occasionally offer Leki poles at 40–60% off.
• Amazon UK – Check for genuine Leki poles; avoid third‑party sellers with suspiciously low prices.

Final verdict

For UK backpacking, the Leki Makalu is the best choice. It combines durability, repairability, and comfort, with a steel lower section that resists wear on abrasive trails. Its SpeedLock Plus system is reliable in wet, muddy conditions, and cork grips keep your hands comfortable in cold weather. While it is heavier than folding or carbon poles, the added weight is a worthwhile trade‑off for the reliability you need on remote UK trails. If you are a frequent backpacker, the Makalu is a lifetime investment that will outlast many cheaper alternatives. For occasional walkers on gentler terrain, the Leki Micro Vario or Cressida are lighter alternatives, but for serious UK backpacking, the Makalu is the undisputed champion.