LEKI Makalu FX Carbon AS review

The Makalu FX Carbon AS fits our angle most directly because it pairs a carbon folding pole with LEKI's DSS damping system. LEKI says the antishock reduces impact on joints by up to 40% and describes it as relieving stress on muscles, joints and ligaments, which is exactly what hikers worried about steep descents are after. The Aergon Air grip has a rubberized back that LEKI designed for grip and control going downhill, and a foam extension below it lets you choke down on climbs without shortening the pole. Length is set with the Speed Lock 2 Plus lever in a 110 to 130 cm range, or 100 to 120 cm for the shorter version, which also gets a smaller grip. The carbon shaft is listed at 9 oz. The catches are the $249.95 price, the narrow 20 cm adjustment window, and LEKI's instruction to use DSS tips with baskets.

Who it is for

Hikers with sore knees on long descents

Price

$249.95 at the LEKI USA store.

MAKALU FX CARBON AS $249.95 USD
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 12, 2026.

Key features

• DSS antishock damping, which LEKI says reduces impact on joints by up to 40%
• Carbon shaft listed at 9 oz
• Adjustable from 110 to 130 cm, or 100 to 120 cm in the shorter version
• Folds into compact sections for a pack or checked bag
• Aergon Air grip with a foam extension for multiple hand positions

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: The only pole here with a published joint impact figure: up to 40% less, per LEKI
• Strength: Speed Lock 2 Plus lever allows length changes between climbs and descents
• Strength: Shorter 100 to 120 cm version with a smaller grip for smaller hands
• Weakness: $249.95 is the highest price on this list
• Weakness: LEKI says to always use DSS tips with baskets on this model
• Weakness: Adjustment range is 20 cm, narrower than telescoping poles such as the Montem at 61 to 135 cm

Key facts

• Price: $249.95
• Shaft: Carbon, 9 oz (LEKI listing)
• Length: 110 to 130 cm or 100 to 120 cm
• Antishock: Yes, DSS damping system
• Design: Folding

Where it ranks

LEKI Makalu FX Carbon AS is No. 1 in our Best Trekking Poles verdict.