What Leki trekking pole model is best for winter hiking in Campos do Jordão?

Campos do Jordão, nestled in the Serra da Mantiqueira in São Paulo state, is Brazil’s premier winter destination. From June to August, temperatures can drop below freezing, and frost or even light snow can cover the trails. Winter hiking here means dealing with cold mud, slippery pine needles, icy patches, and steep climbs. The best Leki trekking pole for these conditions is the Leki Makalu (aluminium, SpeedLock, cork grip). While Leki offers carbon models, aluminium is the safer choice for Brazilian winter terrain. Here’s why the Makalu excels and how to equip it for winter.

Recommended trekking pole purchase link:  https://lightenup.aliexpress.com/store/1101521655

Why the Leki Makalu is best for Campos do Jordão winter

1. 7075 aluminium shaft – Carbon fibre becomes more brittle in cold temperatures and can snap when jammed between frozen rocks or roots. Aluminium bends, and a bent pole can often be straightened on the trail. The Makalu’s aluminium construction is ideal for the region’s rocky, rooty paths (e.g., Pedra do Baú, Vale do Paraíba trails).
2. SpeedLock lever locks – Cold weather does not affect external lever locks. They are easy to operate with gloves, unlike twist locks which can freeze or become slippery. The Makalu’s SpeedLock is reliable even in wet, muddy conditions common after winter rain.
3. Cork grip – Cork provides insulation better than foam or rubber. It remains comfortable in cold temperatures and absorbs sweat from the steep climbs. The extended foam section below the grip allows you to choke up without adjusting length – useful on the region’s short, steep pitches.
4. Compatibility with ice grips – For frosty or icy sections (e.g., the trail to Pedra do Baú summit), you can add Leki’s Ice Grips (spiked rubber covers) over the carbide tip. These provide excellent traction on hard ice or frozen ground.
5. Replaceable carbide tips – Winter hiking can wear tips faster, especially on frozen gravel. The Makalu’s replaceable tips (readily available from Leki importers in Brazil) ensure longevity.

Why not other Leki models?

• Leki Cressida (carbon) – Lighter, but carbon is risky on rocky terrain and in cold. Not recommended.
• Leki Khumbu – Heavier, overkill for most winter day hikes in Campos.
• Leki Micro Vario – Foldable, convenient for travel, but less durable than telescopic Makalu.

Winter‑specific accessories for Campos do Jordão

• Ice Grips – Carry them in your pack. Fit over the carbide tip when you encounter icy patches. Remove them on dry sections.
• Large snow baskets? Not needed. Small summer baskets suffice for the rare shallow snow and mud. Snow is light here, not deep powder.
• Rubber tips for pavement – Some trails start from the town’s cobblestone streets. Use rubber tips to protect carbide and reduce noise.

Technique tips for winter hiking in Campos

• Lengthen poles by 5–10 cm for descents – this helps brake on slippery downhill sections.
• Shorten poles for climbs – keeps your arms low and efficient.
• Use wrist straps correctly – hand up from below, strap between thumb and index finger. Relax grip; the strap bears weight.
• Clean poles after muddy hikes – Campos’ red mud (terra rossa) can corrode locks. Rinse and dry fully extended.

Where to buy in Brazil

Leki Makalu poles are available from Adventure Sport (São Paulo, online) and Dancor. Expect to pay 600–800 BRL. For a budget alternative, the Decathlon Forclaz MT500 (250–300 BRL) also has lever locks and cork grip, but lacks the precision of Leki.

Final verdict

For winter hiking in Campos do Jordão, the Leki Makalu is the best model. Its aluminium shaft, reliable SpeedLock, comfortable cork grip, and compatibility with ice grips make it perfect for cold, muddy, and occasional icy trails. Avoid carbon and twist locks. With the Makalu, you’ll explore the charm of Campos’ winter landscapes safely and comfortably.