Home Trekking Trekking 101 FAQ

Trekking's Frequently Asked Questions

Do Trekking poles negatively affect trails? How can I reduce my impact?
Do I need one pole or two?
What is regular pole maintenance?
Can I take my poles on a plane with me?
Can I change or replace my grips?
What is SpeedLock?

Question -
Do Trekking poles negatively affect trails? How can I reduce my impact?
Answer -
The use of pole baskets can, in certain circumstances, reduce the impact of trekking poles as they keep the penetration of pole tips into the ground to a minimum. Be careful not to inadvertently snag trail side vegetation with the baskets.

Question -
Do I need one pole or two?
Answer -
Generally speaking, if you're traveling easy terrain with no load, one pole may be sufficient. If, however, you're traveling varied terrain or carrying a load, you'll want the support and stability that two poles will provide you.

Question -
What is regular pole maintenance?
Answer -
Regular pole maintenance consists of examining your poles for wear and tear, replacing things like baskets, tips and expanders on a somewhat regular basis and, most importantly, cleaning your poles. Never use any type of lubricant on your poles. LEKI locking system needs friction of the expander against the section inner wall. The best way to clean them internally is with our cleaning system, available as an accessory. It contains special sized wire brushes to remove any loose dirt and debris and get the interior of your pole clean and clear of built up oxidation that is naturally occurring over the years of use. If you still have a concern about your poles, visit our Contact Us page.

Question -
Can I take my poles on a plane with me?
Answer -
LEKI recommends you disassemble your poles and pack them with your checked-in luggage for ease of travel. However, some users of single staff poles, such as the Wanderfreund, who use the pole for personal support have had luck taking them on the plane. While this is completely out of our control, we suggest you contact your airline or the FAA (866-835-5322) with specific questions.

Question -
Can I change or replace my grips?
Answer -
Yes, but you must visit your local retailer so they can order the appropriate parts. LEKI suggest using a qualified technican for replacement.

Question -
What is SpeedLock?
Answer -
SpeedLock is a completely new system using unique design features to achieve the high locking force and adjustment security that is up to 10 times stronger than other external locks.
  • Integrated stainless steel pressure plate allows the red locking lever to apply a vice-like grip on the shaft section to be locked.
  • The fiberglass reinforced polyamide lock mechanism resists stretching unlike other external locks, so SpeedLock poles can be shipped and stored in the locked position without reducing the strength or integrity of the locking strength.
  • The easily accessible “Speed Dial” can be adjusted to provide more locking power (if needed) in extreme conditions.

The following group of questions can be answered by viewing our Fix it on the spot document.


View Fix it on the spot.

The following group of questions can be answered by viewing our LEKI Pointers document.


View LEKI Pointers, Tips on Usage and Upkeep.