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 LEKI Ultralite Ti Ergometric Sass Poles (Pair) By: Leki Average Rating: 4.5 Total Reviews: 2 More Information A great help on a 500-mile trek  On: 2007-09-15I recently did the 500-mile Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, from St. Jean Pied-de-Port in France to Santiago, Spain. My Camino guidebook recommended that I use at least one walking stick to deal with the various types of terrain, and also informed me that two sticks were better than one. If used correctly, the author claimed, they can reduce the strain on ones feet by up to 25%. That sounded good to me (especially since I have flat feet), so while preparing for the trek in Bordeaux, France, I bought a pair of Lekis at an outdoor store. They were a good investment. The clerk confirmed the 25% reduction in strain (as best as he could with his limited English and my even more sparse French), and took time to size them for me via the metric measurements on each poles two adjustable sections (120 centimeters for my 5 10" height). He also showed me how to use them while trekking. I liked the spring action for shock absorption, since I knew Id be walking on asphalt for part of the journey. I also wanted them for defense in case I was menaced by the rumored hordes of mean dogs on the Camino. Once I began the pilgrimage the Lekis immediately proved their worth. Toiling up the mountain ranges was easier, since I could tap into my upper body for added propulsion. And going down uneven, rocky terrain felt safer - I used the poles to keep my balance, test the trails solidity, and avoid slipping on slick surfaces. However, I never had to fend off any dogs - they seemed pretty disinterested in us pilgrims. The poles had the added benefit of giving my arms something to do during the level stages by providing a way to maintain a comfortable walking cadence (the clicking of the Carbide tips on the pavement got to be kind of comforting after awhile). However, I had a couple of issues with the Lekis. One was their infrequent but disconcerting tendency to unlock and begin to slowly shorten (the "Super Lock System" apparently isnt so super). When that happened, I had to stop walking and readjust them, taking care to tightly torque the locks. At least their contraction was gradual - they never suddenly gave way and sent my 200+ pounds of body and pack weight crashing to earth. Another was the repetitive stress injury I incurred in my left forearm. For awhile it was quite painful, and I had to buy a support bandage and take Ibuprofen for relief. Eventually I got over it, but the pain and limited motion were unpleasant while they lasted. Finally, the "120 cm" printing on the poles wore off due to the touted spring action. It enabled the poles outer layer to rub the text off of the inner layer. But I was able to readjust the poles by sight at that point, so it wasnt a catastrophe. I didnt see many people using two trekking poles on the Camino. Most folks were content with one staff, usually purchased or found along the Way. However, Im glad I utilized two Lekis, especially during the initial days when my pack was too heavy and I needed all the help I could get putting one foot in front of the other. Bottom line, the Lekis helped me to successfully negotiate the Camino trail and make it to Santiago in one piece. Poles apart from the usual!  On: 2007-07-03I am used very used to ski and hiking poles. I have Lekis that I keep elsewhere on the planet. These LEKI Ultralite Ti Ergometric Sass Poles (Pair)are better than any I have used. They are very light, the twist locks work better than on my older poles, the shock absorbers work smoothly, and they do not squeak. If you use walking poles on long hard trips, these will reduce discomfort significantly. Non adjustables are lighter, but your hands, wrists, and elbows will get hammered. |