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Leki Micro Vario Carbon Review
January 9, 2018The Good
- Pack down small
- Lightweight
- Very comfortable grip
- Balanced swing
The Bad
- Most expensive model
- Minor durability concerns
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.
David is a self proclaimed snow & navigation geek and teaches all aspects of climbing and avalanche safety for Eastern Mountain Sports Schools in North Conway, NH. He tests GPS's for the Gear Institute.
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