The LEKI Makalu Lite AS is the antishock version of the Makalu Lite — a Performance Series trekking pole that combines the slim, lightweight build of the Lite platform with the Dynamic Suspension System (DSS) integrated above the tip. It is built for adults who want a genuinely light pole for regular mountain and trail use and who also want active joint protection on sustained descents.
At 253 g per pole, the Makalu Lite AS remains among the lighter antishock trekking poles in the LEKI range. The DSS system absorbs impact energy on each pole plant, reducing the transmitted load through the wrist, elbow and shoulder across repeated downhill steps. When the terrain flattens or the pole needs to feel firm, the antishock can be locked out entirely for a direct, responsive feel.
The Aergon Air grip in 2K Foam, Standard size, is the defining grip of the Makalu Lite family. Hollow-core foam construction keeps the grip light while maintaining a broad, supportive contact surface. The head of the grip is fully rubberised for control on descents. The extended lower grip zone allows a higher hand position on steep ascents without needing to re-adjust the pole length. Lock Security Strap Skin 4.0 provides a secure, skin-friendly hold in all conditions. Speed Lock plus handles length adjustment across the full 100–135 cm range.
What’s new for SS26: Updated graphics in Green Blue Light / Green Blue Dark, and the DSS tip is now finished in orange. Construction and specification are otherwise unchanged from the SS25 Makalu Lite AS (LE65221801). The non-antishock version is available as the Makalu Lite (LE65621081S). A Compact variant is also available as the Makalu Lite AS Compact (LE65621802C).
Why it works on real trails
- DSS antishock absorbs impact on each pole plant — actively reduces load on wrists and joints on long descents
- 253 g per pole — lightweight Lite build with antishock at minimal weight cost
- Aergon Air grip in 2K Foam (Standard size) — broad, supportive surface with rubberised head for descent control
- Speed Lock plus for fast, glove-friendly adjustment across the full 100–135 cm range
KEY FEATURES
- SS26 updated graphics in Green Blue Light / Green Blue Dark, with DSS tip now in orange
- Dynamic Suspension System (DSS) antishock — internally integrated, lockable when not required
- DSS Tip 12 mm (Carbide) — the dedicated antishock tip for this section architecture, orange finish (SS26)
- Slimmer 16|14|12 mm section construction — lighter and less bulky than the standard Makalu
- Durable Aluminium (HTS 6.5) throughout all three sections
- Aergon Air grip (2K Foam, Standard size) — hollow-core, lightweight, fully rubberised head for descent control
- Extended lower grip zone for a higher hand position on steep ascents without readjusting
- Lock Security Strap Skin 4.0 — one size, continuously adjustable, skin-friendly material
- Speed Lock plus for fast, glove-friendly length adjustment across 100–135 cm
- Three-section Vario construction — 67 cm pack size when collapsed
- Trekking 2.0 basket for mixed trail and mountain terrain
