I tried out the Leki Neotrail FX.One Superlite running poles and liked their feather-light design at just 137 grams per pole. They fold easily and feel comfortable due to their ergonomic grip and adjustable straps. However, I encountered significant durability issues, with reports of the poles snapping unexpectedly. The Shark mandrel system also failed in wet conditions. Comparable products from Komperdell and Black Diamond offer better durability and user comfort. Additionally, Leki’s customer service left much to be desired. If you’re interested in learning more about these poles and how they compare to other brands, keep going.

Product Overview

The Leki Neotrail FX.One Superlite running poles stand out as a top choice for trail runners due to their impressively lightweight construction, tipping the scales at just 137 grams per pole for the longest version. I found their lightness remarkable, making them easy to handle during long runs.

These poles are designed to fold quickly, allowing for convenient storage and rapid deployment when needed. The carbon fiber material used guarantees they aren’t only light but also relatively sturdy for their weight class. The ergonomic grip and adjustable straps add to the overall comfort, making them a practical option for those prioritizing minimal weight and quick access.

However, I did notice some limitations in their design that I’ll explore further.

Incident Reports

Despite the impressive lightness and ease of use, I encountered significant concerns regarding the durability of the Leki Neotrail FX.One Superlite running poles.

During my descent on steep terrain, one pole snapped unexpectedly, almost causing a fall. This was only the third time I used them. A similar incident occurred during the Trail des Fantomes race, where the poles broke under typical trail conditions. These experiences raise serious questions about their reliability, especially given that such failures could lead to injuries.

I’ve also noticed several user reports and reviews echoing these durability issues, which suggests that my experiences weren’t isolated incidents. It’s clear that while these poles are lightweight, their durability remains a critical issue.

Design and Comfort

Design and comfort-wise, Leki Neotrail FX.One Superlite running poles fall short due to the lack of included gloves and the unreliable Shark mandrel system.

The absence of gloves, which other models like the Ultratrail FX.One include, can be a dealbreaker for many.

The Shark mandrel system, designed for easy strap attachment and detachment, often fails, especially in wet conditions. This unreliability can be frustrating and hazardous on the trail.

Moreover, the poles’ overall grip design doesn’t offer the best comfort for prolonged use, leading to potential discomfort.

Despite their lightweight build, these design flaws make the Neotrail FX.One Superlite poles less appealing for serious trail runners seeking both performance and comfort.

Comparison With Other Brands

When comparing Leki Neotrail FX.One Superlite running poles to other brands, it becomes evident that some alternatives like Komperdell and Black Diamond offer superior durability and user comfort.

Komperdell’s Carbon Approach FXP poles, for instance, boast a more robust structure and a comfortable, adjustable strap that minimizes hand strain.

Black Diamond’s Distance Carbon Z poles also shine with their reliable folding mechanism and ergonomic grips that enhance user stability.

Both brands have managed to balance weight and durability more effectively than Leki.

While the Leki poles excel in lightness, their susceptibility to breaking under stress and issues with the Shark mandrel system make them less dependable.

For a more reliable trail running experience, Komperdell and Black Diamond are better options.

Customer Service

Concerns about Leki’s customer service have emerged, particularly regarding their responsiveness and follow-up on issues related to pole breakage. I encountered a significant delay when I returned a broken pole, with minimal communication from Leki. This lack of prompt feedback made the process frustrating and left me uncertain about the resolution timeframe.

Other customers have reported similar experiences, indicating a pattern of slow or inadequate responses. Besides, there’s a noticeable gap in proactive follow-up from Leki, which undermines confidence in their support system.

While the poles themselves have their merits, dealing with post-purchase issues can be a hassle, and this aspect of their service needs improvement to match the expectations of their user base.

Market Reputation

Over time, Leki’s market reputation has taken a hit due to recurring issues with product durability and subpar customer service. I’ve noticed that several users, including seasoned trail runners, report frequent breakages of the poles under normal conditions. This isn’t just a one-off; it appears to be a pattern, raising serious concerns about the reliability of their products.

Moreover, the customer service experience has left many frustrated, with delayed responses and inadequate resolutions. Retailers have also pointed out a higher rate of returns and complaints for Leki poles compared to competitors like Black Diamond.

It’s clear that these issues have heavily impacted Leki’s standing in the market, making potential buyers cautious about investing in their products.

Pros and Cons

Despite their lightweight design and easy folding mechanism, the Leki Neotrail FX.One Superlite running poles fall short in durability and comfort, raising significant concerns for serious trail runners.

I found the poles’ tendency to break under normal use quite alarming, especially given their high market price.

The lack of included gloves might initially seem like a relief, but the Shark mandrel system’s unreliability, particularly in wet conditions, only adds to the frustration.

On the plus side, they’re incredibly light and easy to pack, which is great for runners who prioritize minimal weight.

However, the durability issues and comfort drawbacks can’t be overlooked, making these poles a less attractive option for demanding trail runs.

Conclusion

To sum up, the Leki Neotrail FX.One Superlite running poles offer an impressive ultralight design that’s ideal for enhancing trail running performance. However, their durability leaves much to be desired, especially on challenging terrains like the Austrian Alps.

While they excel in weight and comfort, the fragility is a significant drawback. For those prioritizing lightness, they’re a strong contender, but durability concerns might steer others towards more robust alternatives.