Leki Jannu Trekking Poles Review: Are They Worth the Investment?

When it comes to trekking poles, finding the sweet spot between weight, durability, and comfort can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. After six months of rigorous testing across varying terrains and weather conditions, I discovered that the Leki Jannu trekking poles might just be that needle. 

They accompanied me through muddy trails, rocky scrambles, and winter hikes, proving that sometimes the best gear isn’t about having the lightest weight or the most premium materials. Instead, it’s about finding equipment that consistently performs when you need it most, without breaking the bank or your spirit on challenging trails. 

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Key Features and Specifications 

The Leki trekking poles offer reliable performance with their HTS 6.5 aluminum construction. The poles feature the Aergon COR-TEC grip, built specifically for smaller hands, along with a Lock Security Strap Skin 4.0 that’s continuously adjustable. 

With a three-section design, these poles collapse to 64cm for easy storage and extend from 90cm to 125cm using the Speed Lock Plus system. Each pole weighs 236g and comes with a Flex Tip carbide spike and trekking basket. The aluminum shaft segments measure 16mm, 14mm, and 12mm, providing stability across various terrains. 

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Build Quality and Materials Used 

They’re made from aluminum, which makes them both strong and light. I tested the three-section design on various trails and found it offers excellent stability, with seamless transitions between segments. The poles showed minimal wear even after heavy use on rocky terrain. 

The shaft diameters of 16mm, 14mm, and 12mm create a solid structure that doesn’t wobble during hiking. While carbon fiber options exist in the market, these aluminum poles strike a sweet spot between durability and weight. Based on my testing, they’re built to last through regular trail use and rough conditions. 

Grip Design and Comfort 

I found the Aergon COR-TEC grip on the Leki Jannu to be well-shaped for extended hiking sessions. The compact design fits nicely in smaller hands, but I noticed it still worked well for my larger hands during testing. The cork material wicks away moisture effectively and shapes to your grip pattern over time. 

The Lock Security Strap lets you dial in the fit precisely, though I often hiked without it on less technical trails. With my previous poles, I slipped on a trail and because I had the strap on, they twisted and actually broke the grip.  I figure it’s better to lose the pole and not risk it getting caught in my legs than injuring me or busting the handle.  

The ergonomic shape supported multiple grip positions – especially helpful when moving uphill or traversing slopes. While marketed toward women, these poles offer comfort for any hiker seeking a more compact grip design. 

Adjustability and Locking Mechanism 

The Speed Lock Plus system on the Leki Jannu offers quick length changes from 90cm to 125cm. During my testing, I could adjust the poles even with gloves on, which proved helpful in cold weather. The mechanism clicks firmly into place without the wiggle you might find in twist-lock designs. 

I’ve used both flick-lock and twist-lock poles, and the Speed Lock Plus stands out for its reliability. The clasp maintains tension well – I didn’t experience any slipping during steep descents or when using the poles to pitch my tent. My previous poles (different brand) starting slipping and it was not fin when I was on a narrow ledge and using them to stabilize me. I love that these can be tightened so this slipping won’t occur.  

The lock tabs are easy to flip open and shut, making mid-hike adjustments simple without removing my pack. 

Weight and Portability 

At 236g per pole, the Leki Jannu hits a practical middle ground for trail weight. I carried these poles on several long hikes and found the weight manageable, even after hours on the trail. The three-section design collapses to 64cm, making them easy to strap to a pack or stow in checked luggage. 

While not the lightest poles available, their aluminum construction offers better durability than some ultralight carbon options. During my testing, I appreciated how they fit neatly inside my pack’s side pockets when not in use. The compact size proved helpful when scrambling over rocks or navigating tight spaces where stowed poles worked better. 

Performance on Various Terrains 

I tested the Leki Jannu poles across multiple trail conditions, and they handled each situation well. On steep uphills, the Leki Makalu poles gave steady support with no flex or bending. The carbide tips bit nicely into loose dirt and provided good traction on rock surfaces. 

During downhill sections, the aluminum construction absorbed shock effectively. I noticed particularly good stability when crossing streams or navigating muddy patches. The poles maintained their length settings even when bearing my full weight on tricky descents. 

The Speed Lock Plus system let me quickly adjust pole length for different slopes, while the Aergon grip stayed comfortable whether power hiking uphill or easing down technical sections. 

Durability and Longevity 

The aluminum build of the Leki Jannu holds up well against daily trail abuse. I tested these poles through rain, mud, and rocky terrain over six months, and they showed minimal signs of wear. The Speed Lock Plus mechanisms stayed tight and rust-free, while the carbide tips maintained their grip even after miles on abrasive surfaces. 

Leki gear longevity is impressive, with users reporting their poles lasting 5+ years with basic maintenance. During my winter testing, the poles performed reliably in temperatures below freezing, with no stiffness in the locking mechanism or deterioration of the cork grips.  

Regular cleaning of the sections and occasional tightening of the locks kept these poles working like new. 

Suitability for Different User Heights and Genders 

While marketed for women, these were initially recommended to me by a salesperson in an REI store (who obviously saw my 6-foot height).  I’ve found the trekking pole options adjustable range of 90-125cm works well for hikers of various heights. During testing, I adjusted these poles comfortably for my 6’0″ frame, though they proved equally effective for my hiking partner who stands at 5’4″. 

The compact grip size might suggest limitations, but my larger hands adapted well to the Aergon COR-TEC grip design. In fact, several male hikers in my group switched to these poles after trying them, noting the comfortable hand position and reliable support. The strap adjustment system lets you fine-tune the fit regardless of hand size or gender. 

The three-section design hits the sweet spot for different hiking styles and body types. I’ve watched shorter hikers extend them fully for steep descents, while taller users like myself found plenty of range for maintaining proper form with elbows at 90 degrees. 

Comparison to Other Leki Models 

These differ from the Makalu Lite series in several ways based on my hands-on testing. The Jannu’s smaller Aergon COR-TEC grip stood out when compared to the chunkier grips on other Leki models. I found the Jannu’s grip worked better for technical sections where precise pole placement mattered. 

While both models use Speed Lock Plus systems, the Jannu’s slightly lighter weight (236g vs 240g+ for other models) made a noticeable difference during long hikes. The aluminum construction matches other Leki poles for durability, though some higher-end models offer carbon fiber options at a steeper price point. 

Through side-by-side testing, I noticed the Jannu’s more compact collapsed length made it easier to stow than longer models. The price point sits in the middle of Leki’s range, offering good value for the features included. 

Strap Design and Functionality 

The Lock Security Strap Skin 4.0 on the Leki Jannu poles features a continuously adjustable design. During my testing, I found the strap material stayed comfortable even after sweaty climbs, with no chafing against my wrists. The adjustment mechanism lets you tighten or loosen the fit while wearing gloves. 

I tested the straps through different weather conditions and noticed they dried quickly after rain. The attachment point to the grip held steady on technical terrain, though I often hiked without straps on gentle trails. For winter use, the wide strap design worked well over thick gloves, maintaining good pole control without restricting movement. 

Basket and Tip Design 

The Leki Jannu trekking poles comes with standard trekking baskets and Flex Tip carbide spikes. During my testing, the carbide tips provided excellent grip on rocky terrain and packed dirt. The flex feature absorbed shock effectively when striking hard surfaces, reducing wear on the poles and stress on my wrists. 

I found the trekking baskets prevented the poles from sinking too deep in soft ground and mud. When crossing streams, the baskets offered good stability against slick rocks. The tip design worked equally well on both ascents and descents, biting into loose gravel without slipping. 

The replaceable carbide tips proved useful after extensive hiking on abrasive surfaces.  

Shock Absorption Capabilities 

The Leki Jannu trekking poles showed excellent shock absorption during my testing on rough trails. The aluminum shaft dampened impact effectively when hitting rocks and roots, reducing strain on my knees and wrists. I noticed this particularly during a 15-mile hike with 3,000 feet of elevation loss. 

The poles lack a dedicated shock absorption system like some pricier models, but the flex in the shaft sections provided natural dampening. On steep downhills, the poles absorbed enough impact to prevent hand fatigue and joint stress. During side-by-side testing with non-shock absorbing poles, I felt less vibration transfer through the Jannu’s shaft, making them comfortable for long-distance hiking. 

The combination of the LEKI USA flex tip design and aluminum construction created sufficient give without compromising stability or control. My knees thanked me after several back-to-back days on rocky descents. 

Value for Money 

The Leki Jannu trekking poles hit a mid-range price point in the market. I compared them with budget options and found the Jannu’s build quality justified the higher cost. The poles held up better during rough use, with no loosening of components or grip wear that I often saw in cheaper alternatives. 

When tested against similar-priced Black Diamond and other Leki models, the Jannu matched or exceeded performance in grip comfort and locking mechanism reliability. 

 The lifetime warranty on shaft breakage adds significant value, making these poles a practical long-term investment. Based on my six months of testing, the durability and consistent performance make them worth the price for regular hikers, though casual users might find budget options sufficient. 

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Pros and Cons

After extensive testing, I found the benefits outweigh the limitations for regular hikers seeking reliable, comfortable poles. The build quality and versatility justify the investment for those who hike frequently, though casual users might do fine with less expensive alternatives. 

Who (and when) are these best for? 

The trekking pole options work best for hikers who head out regularly on varied terrain. During my testing, I found them particularly good for people who mix day hikes with occasional backpacking trips. The poles supported both light trail walking and technical sections requiring precise placement. 

These poles fit well for hikers between 5’2″ and 6’2″, based on the adjustable range. I watched newer hikers pick up proper technique quickly with these poles, while experienced trekkers appreciated the reliable locking mechanism and grip comfort. The durability makes them suitable for those planning long-distance hikes or frequent weekend adventures. 

For tent users, the 125cm maximum length works well with most trekking pole shelters I tested. The poles handled both gentle nature walks and challenging mountain trails, making them versatile enough for year-round hiking. 

Are They Worth the Investment? 

Yes. After extensive testing across diverse conditions, the Leki Jannu trekking poles emerge as a compelling choice for both weekend warriors and serious hikers. While they may not be the lightest or cheapest option on the market, their reliable performance, thoughtful design features, and excellent durability make them a worthy investment for anyone seeking dependable trail companions. 

The combination of the comfortable Aergon COR-TEC grip, reliable Speed Lock Plus system, and versatile adjustability creates a package that works for a wide range of users. Despite the women-specific marketing, these poles prove themselves as capable all-rounders that can handle whatever the trail throws at them. 

➡️ GET THE LEKI JANNU TREKKING POLES ON AMAZON

➡️ GET THE LEKI JANNU TREKKING POLES ON REI 

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