Leki Carbonlite AERGONs
Leki Carbonlite AERGON poles are Leki's lightest trekking poles. They weigh in at just 12.8 oz. per pair (6.4 oz. each) and feature adjustable shafts (61 to 135 cm) that utilize Leki's Super Lock system, providing quick, secure twist-locking. They include a carbide flextip. The retail price for the Carbonlite AERGONs is $179.95 in 2010. Leki also offers an anti-shock version of the Carbonlite AERGON, which is still ultralight at 13.2 oz. per pair.
Komperdell Carbon Featherlite Poles
The Carbon Featherlite Poles from Austrian pole manufacturer Komperdell feature 100 percent carbon construction for a weight of just 4.3 oz. per pole. The poles include wrist straps, and tungsten/carbide tips for added durability. Komperdell claims its poles are stronger than lighter poles offered by Gossamer Gear and Bozeman Mountain Works.
Titanium Goat Poles
On paper, Titanium Goat poles provide the best mix of features and weight on this list. They are one of two sets of poles included here that feature adjustable length hardware. The poles can be adjusted from 30 to 52 inches with Titanium Goat's rubber expander system. You might think that would add serious weight, but these poles are extremely lightweight at just 3.4 oz. per pole (baskets add .2 oz. ). Titanium Goat improved upon the strength and durability of the poles for the 2010 season. The carbon upper shafts also received a new breakage warranty for the 2010 season. Even with this impressive mix of convenience and low weight, Titanium Goat poles retail for a very competitive $130 a pair in 2010.
Gossamer Gear LightTrek 3 Custom Poles
Known for offering some of the lightest hiking and backpacking gear on the market, including a sub-8-oz. backpack, Gossamer Gear makes the lightest trekking poles on this list. The made-to-order LightTrek 3 poles come in a variety of sizes, with weights starting at just 2.4 oz. per pole (longest poles are still just 2.6 oz.). These poles are fixed length and can be ordered in 5 cm increments between 110 and 135 cm. Baskets add .4 oz. to each pole. The poles feature a tapered shaft and carbide tip. In 2010, they are priced at $110.
