LEKI National Geographic Meridian Poles (Pair)

The National Geographic Society and LEKI have joined forces to create a series of versatile poles, including this pair of Meridian poles. The poles convert into an extended "photo zone" adjustment range for use as a camera mono pod and extends to 145 centimeters so there is no need to hunch over when taking staff-supported photos. Ideal for carrying lighter loads or walking on more gentle terrain, the COR-TEC grips are durable and comfortable while an auto comfort strap provides stability. The three-section 7075 series heat-treated aluminum shaft adjusts from 75 to 145 centimeters and carries a lifetime warranty against breakage.

LEKI's Super Lock System allows the pole length to be adjusted with the least amount of torque (hand strength). Like all LEKI trekking poles, the carbide flextips are replaceable and offer a very secure hold on any terrain and surface. A rubber tip attachment is included for use indoors and on pavement (which removes easily as the carbide tip should be exposed for trail use). Unique to the National Geographic pole series, special functional graphics are printed on the upper pole shaft, including US/metric conversions, a ruler for photo scaling, and an elevation scale.

Specifications

• Series: National Geographic
• Shaft: Aluminum 3-section / 24.3 ounces per pair
• Grip: COR-TEC
• Strap: Auto Comfort
• Finish: Ultra Sonic
• Adjusts from 75-145 centimeters
• Lifetime warranty against shaft breakage

About LEKI

LEKI, the world’s leading manufacturer of ski, hiking and trekking poles, had its start in Kircheim, Germany as a hobby of its founder, Karl Lenhart, an airframe mechanic and avid skier. Lenhart believed aluminum would make a superior ski pole compared to the heavy steel models available in the late 1940’s. After successfully creating lightweight poles for his friends, in 1954, the hobby became a full time business. LEKI originated the use of nylon webbing for straps and created plastic molded grips and baskets in place of metal and leather. Additionally, Lenhart developed an aluminum tempering process that produces pole shaft with incomparable strength, durability, and reliability.

In 1984, Klaus Lenhart, Karl’s son, assumed leadership and shortly there after developed the first dual-component grip. He is also responsible for improving adjustable pole-locking technology and grip innovations such as the Trigger Click-In system and COR-TEC, a material made of real cork and latex. As the ski market continued to flourish, LEKI began manufacturing hiking poles primarily for European mountain guides. The concept of using two poles as means of relieving stress on knee joints and the lower back appealed to climbers who also saw benefits in performance and safety. LEKI poles eventually caught on with the general hiking and trekking population that recognized and appreciated the preventive health benefits as well as the climbing support and stabilizing effects. In 1990, LEKI USA was incorporated. The North American market has embraced the company’s line of alpine, Nordic, back country, mountaineering, Nordic walking, and trekking poles. Like their European counterparts who have been loyal to LEKI for nearly five decades, North American outdoor enthusiasts know and appreciate LEKI quality and value.

• Super Lock System offers a secure adjustment hold with the least amount of torque (hand strength required) to offer secure, reliable support

• Soft Anti-shock System (SAS) features an internal suspension system that cushions the impact of each pole plant for comfort and security

• Carbide Flextips are concave, cylindrical tips that provide a secure hold when Nordic walking off-road on all terrain and surfaces; carbide is extremely durable while the entire tip is replaceable.

• Integrated photo mount, cane-style grip unscrews to expose standard camera mount threads