The LEKI Makalu Cork FX TA is a five-section folding aluminium trekking pole pair built for adults who want the packability of a folding pole and the natural comfort of a real cork grip. Folding to just 41 cm, it travels in a rucksack lid or carry-on bag without difficulty, yet extends to full length via the Speed Lock plus system in seconds.
Built on the Makalu FX TA platform — LEKI’s flagship folding aluminium trekking pole for the season — the Makalu Cork FX TA is an SS26 introduction that replaces the Khumbu FX TA from SS25 but steps up in specification. Where the Khumbu FX TA was offered at a similar price point, this model delivers the broader, more ergonomic Makalu Aergon Air grip body in real cork, a full grip extension for comfortable uphill carry, and the same reliable five-section HTS 6.5 aluminium construction used across the Makalu family. Real cork naturally absorbs moisture, remains comfortable bare-handed in warm conditions, and develops a light custom fit over time — qualities that make it a preferred choice for long-distance mountain hiking.
All five FX folding sections on this SS26 model are individually replaceable, an important improvement introduced across the entire LEKI FX range for 2026. Previous generations allowed only lower and middle section 3 replacement; from SS26 every folding section can be swapped, making long-term servicing straightforward.
What’s new for SS26: New model. The Makalu Cork FX TA (LE65620761S) is replacing the Khumbu FX TA at a similar price but on the higher-specified Makalu FX TA platform. Key upgrade over the Khumbu FX TA: Aergon Air Real Cork grip (replacing Aergon), grip extension included, all sections now individually replaceable. A Compact version (90–120 cm) is available separately as the Makalu Cork FX TA Compact (LE65620762C).
- Folds to 41 cm — packs into a rucksack lid, daysack front pocket, or carry-on luggage with ease
- Real cork grip absorbs moisture and is comfortable bare-handed, day after day on the hill
- Grip extension provides a higher hold point on steep ascents without shortening the pole
- All folding sections individually replaceable for SS26 — the most serviceable LEKI folding trekking pole to date
- SS26 introduction — replaces the Khumbu FX TA with an upgrade to the full Makalu FX TA platform
- Aergon Air Real Cork grip with grip extension for additional hold on steep uphill sections
- Durable Aluminium (HTS 6.5) five-section FX folding construction throughout all sections
- Folds to 41 cm — genuinely pack-friendly for travel, hut-to-hut trekking, and rucksack lid carry
- Lock Security Strap Skin 4.0 — one size, continuously adjustable
- Speed Lock plus for fast, glove-friendly length adjustment between 110 cm and 130 cm
- All five FX folding sections individually replaceable — new across the entire LEKI FX range for 2026
- Flex Tip Short (Carbide) for durable performance on rocky and mixed mountain ground
- Trekking 2.0 basket for mixed trail and mountain terrain
