When it comes to trekking poles, LEKI is the most established brand on the market; they started making ski poles in 1948 and their use of innovative technology and European engineering has helped them branch out into the outdoor market. The Diva AERGON Anti-Shock poles are one of LEKI’s women-specific trekking pole models. The pair weighs in at 15.8 oz, just shy of 2 ounces more than their top-of-the-line Carbonlite model. They feature LEKI’s Soft Antishock System Lite, AERGON grip, and utilize an Interchangeable Basket System (other basket styles can be purchased separately).
Hikers who use trekking poles are divided into two camps: those who prefer antishock systems, and those that do not. Over the years I have used both styles, and see the arguments for both sides. The most common argument against antishock poles is the pogo-stick-like spring, which doesn’t lend itself to solid support. However, the Soft Antishock System that LEKI utilizes in the Diva leaves no feelings of unease or pogo-stick bounce. On downhills, where the extra support of the pole is most essential, the antishock was subtle and gave a feeling of solid support.
The AERGON grips were comfortable; the soft, lightweight foam is molded to provide a solid grip, and even after long hikes, my hands were free of blisters and fatigue. An often overlooked feature is the wrist strap–the Diva’s strap is comfortable, with a felt lining. But what makes it even better is how you adjust the strap. Rather than having to find a tool to adjust the strap, you simply pull up on the strap, revealing the housing to adjust the strap. From there, simply adjust the strap to the your preference, and push down on the housing to lock the strap in place. This system provides a very secure strap that will cradle your wrist, even on long treks.
Like most trekking poles, the Diva uses the twist-to-lock style. While many say that this is not as secure as a flip-lock system, I had no instances of lock failure while I was testing the poles. The poles extend to 125 cm (about 10cm shorter than other models), part of the women-specific design.
After a few test hikes, I have to say my favorite feature isn’t one often advertised: how quiet they were. Even with the Antishock system, there wasn’t the same loud click-clack that becomes the rhythm of many hikes with trekking poles. Though this won’t help if you are trying to make your presence known in bear country, it was a pleasant surprise during the test hikes.
Overall, these are a high quality set of trekking poles, and with the addition of snow baskets (purchased separately), can be used for a wide variety of hikes in many conditions. They retail for $139.95 and are available through many online retailers.
