LEKI Black Series FX Carbon review

The Black Series FX Carbon is LEKI's cork-grip folding carbon pole. It folds into three sections that LEKI says measure less than 16 inches, which makes it the most packable pole on this list by published figure. The Aergon Air grip has a genuine cork surface, and the fully rubberized grip head and inclined angle are designed for control and wrist support on descents, which is where knee-conscious hikers lean on poles most. Length is set with the Speed Lock 2 Plus lever between 110 and 130 cm, and there is no shorter version. LEKI does not fit this model with an antishock system. When we checked, LEKI listed it at $199.95, down from $249.95, which puts it below the Makalu FX Carbon. At the regular price it is the same cost as the Makalu FX Carbon AS, which offers damping, so the sale is what makes it competitive.

Who it is for

Hikers who want a folding pole with a cork grip

Price

$199.95 on sale from $249.95 at the LEKI USA store.

BLACK SERIES FX CARBON $199.95 USD $249.95 USD
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 12, 2026.

Key features

• Folds into three sections measuring less than 16 inches
• Aergon Air grip with a genuine cork surface
• Speed Lock 2 Plus lever adjustment from 110 to 130 cm
• Fully rubberized grip head for downhill control
• Carbon shaft

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Shortest folded length LEKI publishes on this list, under 16 inches
• Strength: Cork grip surface for sweaty hands
• Strength: On sale at $199.95 from $249.95 when checked
• Weakness: Only one length range, 110 to 130 cm
• Weakness: No antishock system
• Weakness: Sale price may end; the regular price is $249.95

Key facts

• Price: $199.95 (sale, regular $249.95)
• Folded length: Under 16 in
• Length: 110 to 130 cm
• Grip: Aergon Air with cork surface
• Design: Three-section folding

Where it ranks

LEKI Black Series FX Carbon is No. 6 in our Best Trekking Poles verdict.