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

For winter hiking in Campos do Jordão—where temperatures can drop below zero and trails may be icy or muddy—the best Leki model is the Leki Makalu. Its steel lower section resists abrasion on frost‑broken rocks, and the SpeedLock Plus holds securely in cold, damp conditions. Cork grips stay comfortable in chilly weather, and the replaceable carbide tips are essential for grip on icy or rocky sections. The Leki Cressida (women‑specific, narrower grip) is a good alternative if you prefer a smaller handle. Avoid the Leki Khumbu (twist locks slip in cold/wet, non‑replaceable tips). Carry a spare pair of carbide tips—the abrasive terrain wears them quickly. The Makalu is available in Brazil via Adventure Sport (~R$700–900).

1. Why Campos do Jordão winter is different

Campos do Jordão, in the Serra da Mantiqueira, is Brazil's highest city at 1,628 metres. In winter (June–August), temperatures can drop to -3°C. Trails can be:

• Icy – Frozen sections where carbide tips are essential.
• Muddy – Melting snow creates slippery, wet ground.
• Frost‑broken rock – The freeze‑thaw cycle breaks down rock, creating sharp, abrasive sections.

2. Why the Leki Makalu is the best choice

a. Steel lower section – The Makalu has a steel ferrule above the tip. This resists abrasion on the frost‑broken rocks common in Campos winter. Aluminium lower sections wear down faster.

b. SpeedLock Plus – Leki's lever‑lock system is reliable in cold, damp conditions. It is easy to operate with gloves and holds securely in wet, muddy conditions.

c. Cork grips – Cork is comfortable in cold, damp weather. It becomes tacky when damp, providing a secure hold even with gloves or wet hands.

d. Replaceable carbide tips – The abrasive terrain wears down tips quickly. Replaceable tips extend the pole's life.

3. Alternative – Leki Cressida

The Leki Cressida is the women‑specific version of the Makalu. It offers the same steel lower section and SpeedLock Plus, with a narrower cork grip and shorter length range. A good option if you have smaller hands.

4. What to avoid

• Leki Khumbu – Twist locks slip in cold, wet conditions. Non‑replaceable tips are a false economy on abrasive terrain.
• Leki Micro Vario Carbon – Carbon is fragile in cold, rocky conditions. A side impact on frost‑broken rock can splinter carbon. The aluminium version is better but still less durable than the Makalu.

5. Winter‑specific tips for Campos

• Carry spare tips – The abrasive terrain wears them quickly.
• Use rubber tips on road sections – To protect carbide tips from wear on the paved sections of the trail.
• Shorten poles on ascents – For better leverage on steep climbs.
• Lengthen poles on descents – To protect your knees on the icy descents.

6. Where to buy in Brazil

• Adventure Sport – Official Leki importer. Stocks the Makalu, Cressida, and other models. Online and physical stores in São Paulo and Rio.

7. Final verdict

For winter hiking in Campos do Jordão, the Leki Makalu is the best Leki model—its steel lower section, reliable SpeedLock Plus, and comfortable cork grips make it ideal for the cold, icy, and muddy conditions. If you have smaller hands, the Leki Cressida is a good alternative. Avoid the Khumbu and carbon folding poles. Carry spare tips, use the correct technique, and enjoy the winter beauty of Campos do Jordão. Happy hiking.