Trail running poles: Leki and TSL
Our selection of Trail Running Poles brings together the poles of trail runners: Leki Ultratrail FX One and FX One SL, Leki Evotrail FX One, and TSL Trail Carbon, Trail Alu and C4, with cork grips, foldable and lightweight, to improve efficiency on the ascent and safety on the descent.
Climb with your arms, descend with confidence.
Climbing with poles
In mountain trail running, poles take the strain off your legs during steep ups: by pushing with their arms, runners distribute the effort across their whole body and save their thighs for the rest of the race. On descents, they provide extra support and reassurance on technical terrain. They have become almost essential in ultra-trails. However, some races prohibit them: it's important to check the rules before setting off.
Other gear
Trail gear also comes in various forms:
All gear can be found on the gear page.
Materials
Trail poles are almost all collapsible, made of several sections connected by a cord: when folded, they fit in the back or on the sides of a hydration vest. Carbon, like on the Leki Ultratrail or TSL Trail Carbon, is lighter and stiffer, reducing arm fatigue over long distances. Aluminium, as seen in the TSL Trail Alu, is more resistant to impacts, bends without breaking and is cheaper. The SL version of Leki, even lighter, is aimed at competition.
Length and grip
A trail pole should be chosen for the right length: when stood next to your foot, your elbow should form about a right angle. Collapsible poles come in a fixed length, which should be chosen according to your height; some, like the Leki Evotrail, offer slight adjustments. The cork grip on the TSL absorbs sweat and doesn't slip. The Leki system connects the grip to a glove or strap with a clip, allowing you to drop and pick up the pole in one motion. TSL, a French brand from Haute-Savoie, is also known for its snowshoes.
Good deals
Good bargains can also be found in good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped within 24 hours are prepared and dispatched within that timeframe. The highlights of the year follow a stable pattern: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the festive season, winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by summer sales and back-to-school.
Frequently Asked Questions
What length of trail poles should I choose?
When the pole is planted near your foot, your elbow should form a right angle. In trail running, a slightly shorter length is often chosen compared to hiking in order to maintain a quick pace. Collapsible poles with a fixed length are selected according to a chart based on the runner's height.
Carbon or aluminium for trail poles?
Carbon, like on the TSL Trail Carbon or the Leki Ultratrail, is lighter, a plus for long races. Aluminium, as on the TSL Trail Alu, is heavier but bends instead of breaking under impact.
Why are trail poles collapsible?
Folded into three sections, they can be stored in a quiver or on the hydration vest when the terrain becomes easier, then quickly deployed for the next climb.
Are poles allowed in all races?
No, some organisers prohibit them, while others require you to keep them until the finish if you've started with them. Check the race rules before bringing them along.
How to properly use your poles when climbing?
Plant both poles simultaneously, slightly in front of you, and push with your arms while keeping your torso upright. On very steep slopes, hold them lower down the grip for effective support.
