Leki Quantum

The Leki Quantum is a stable, dependable workhorse trekking pole. If you spend any time on trails... flats, declines or inclines... work smarter not harder with Leki poles. This unisex pole is worthy of the beginner or the pro.

I am uncertain what kept me from getting a pair of trekking poles in the past, perhaps pride...thinking they were for the weak, possibly embarrassment...too concerned what others might think, possibly price...the good one's aren't cheap, probably a combination of all of those.

A few years ago, it seemed I saw everyone using them including some select high speed military units, so I thought "what do these people (young, old, and everything in between) know that I don't know?" Having been an avid XC and backcountry skier, you would have thought I got the "pole advantage."

I researched and shopped...and narrowed down my selection to three manufacturers at the time. I saw these Leki Quantum's on sale and took the leap. I couldn't believe the immediate advantages. So much so...that I purchased another six Lekis, of various models, for my family members over the course of a year.

The Leki Quantums are a three-section lightweight aluminum pole design, held secure by their Speedlock external locking system. The Speedlock levers are tension adjustable and easy to manipulate in all conditions, gloved or bare handed. The locking mechanism secures confidently, and no need to overtighten and crank down on the cam lever.

If you experience slippage upon initial setup, micro adjust the tensioning nut while the cam lever is open and test for stability. There is no need to over tighten the Speedlock cam lever. I adjusted my Speedlocks upon purchase two years ago and have had no need to readjust them.

I prefer the solid all soft rubber grips. The contour of the grip fit my hand, much like my ski poles, so muscle memory was instant and comfortable. Perhaps others have had positive success with mult-material grips, but I chose not to have the possibility of my grips coming delaminated during a hike by selecting a one piece. The Quantum grips often moderate stiction.

Grip strap was immediately comfortable and used like a XC ski pole, where all the pressure of body weight and support rests on the underside of my wrist...allowing for a secure, consistent, balanced swing while striding. Strap adjustability is simple and intuitive, offering infinitesimal adjustment. Grips are labeled with a noticeable yellow L and R on the grip top.

I waffled with selecting a model with suspension, but chose the Quantums that have none. I have not tried any models with suspension, so at this point, I don't know what I might be missing. Ignorance is bliss, I suppose.

The Quantum's aluminum pole sections are lightweight, not as light as my wife's Leki Lhasa Lite Aergons, or my son's Leki Cristallos, but perfect for me and my body weight (6/180). I do not notice the flex, but being aluminum I'm certain there is a degree of flex. 

The plastic basket and tip have remained secure and made of a durable material. The basket are a perfect size to prevent sinking in mud, and do not catch on nature's obstacles or come in contact with your stride. The carbide tip does not appear to be wearing adversely and continues to consistently offer secure planting and grip on various terrain.

Both tips and baskets are removable and replaceable. If pavement trekking is a constant, Leki does have an optional rubber tip that will protect your carbide tip from undue wear and offer a more positive contact.

I have used the Leki Quantums on parts of the Appalachian Trail, Florida Trail, throughout the Rocky Mtns of Colorado, high plains of northeast New Mexico, Ouachita Mtns of Arkansas, Smokies, Poconos, Shenandoahs, from river valley trails to knolls, to mesas, to ridges, to peaks...on sandstone, granite, greenstone, sand, mud, bog and river and even as tent awning poles.

The Quantums have held up to the abuse dished out, without ding, dent or failure. The only difficulty I experience is sand has gotten inside and makes sliding on one section a bit gritty...but has not hampered function...and in my haste, have not pulled them apart to clean it out.

I would not consider hiking or camping without these Leki Quantums. They have become an indispensable tool for me and an anticipated extension of my body...reducing further abuse on my knees, hip joints and back. I am supremely satisfied with my purchase and use...my expectation have been exceeded.

I highly recommend Leki poles.

While I have not needed to utilize Leki customer service or the warranty department, speaking with a relative that has, he was very impressed and satisfied with their care.