Leki Micro Vario Carbon Review

January 9, 2018
Leki Micro Vario Carbon
Leki_MicroVarioCarbon-1
Leki Micro Vario Carbon Leki_MicroVarioCarbon-1
GEAR INSTITUTE RATINGS
90
Weight
7
Packability
9
Comfort/Swing
9
Features
8
Durability
7

The Good

  • Pack down small
  • Lightweight
  • Very comfortable grip
  • Balanced swing

The Bad

  • Most expensive model
  • Minor durability concerns
THE VERDICT
The Leki Micro Vario Carbon trekking poles took our Best In Class award largely in part to the combination of lightweight and extreme-packability. They also scored high in the comfort/swing category as “Aergon (Thermo) grip” felt natural in hand and the small diameter pole had a very balanced swing.
FULL REVIEW

Weight

At 1 pound (458 grams) the Leki Micro Vario Carbon trekking poles were not the lightest in the test, but they were within one ounce of the three lightest models and we did not hear any concerns about the weight in comparison to the other models.

Packability

The minimum collapsed size of the Leki Micro Vario Carbon trekking poles is a mere 15 inches, which tied for first place for most collapsible models in our test. This packability was a favorite feature of more than one rock climbing tester, who were happy to be able to take poles on long approaches and then store them in small technical climbing backpacks for the ascent. Our international travelers were happy to be able to pack these in their carry-on bags.

Comfort/Swing

The Leki Micro Vario Carbon trekking poles “Aergon” grip with extended thermo foam down the upper shaft was a favorite of testers who especially complimented the comfort of “open palming” the top of the handles on steep descents. As one trail runner put it, “the low weight combined with super small diameter made these feel like they cut through the air and were completely effortless to swing.”

Features

The suitcase compatible size, combined with a flat pound weight won our testers over. The unique “Speed Lock 2” was another contributing factor to how high these poles scored as testers were happy to be able to adjust the tension on the lock system with just a quick turn of a small dial, even while wearing gloves. The included travel/stow bag was also a nice addition as we had testers check these in large duffle bags stuffed with climbing gear and were glad to see them arrive at their destination unscathed.

Durability

After hundreds of miles, the Leki Micro Vario Carbon trekking poles only show minor cosmetic wear. One tester did have the top plastic piece of one of the handles pop out during a hike but it snapped back in with little effort and hasn’t popped out again so we did not deduct from the overall durability.

USER REVIEWS

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