Customer Reviews

Leki Wanderfreund Trekking Pole

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I purchased a Wanderfreund anti shock and the anti shock broke twice. Leki replaced both quickly and courteously, the second time I requested the non anti shock lower section and it has performed well. I use the carbide tip in the winter or on trails in summer with the appropriate basket if needed. The carbide tip really adds to my confidence in icy conditions, something no ordinary cane can boast. I also use the bungy cord crossed over the back of my hand and hooked over the rear portion of the handle. This actually automatically advances the cane when lifted for my next step, increasing my speed. For me, looping my middle finger through the hole in the handle is by far the best mode of operation. I also have the Leki Micro and while I love the size, the handle just does not compare to the Wanderfreund.

Since this original review I ordered and received another it did not come the grip as illustrated, still quite nice bit I prefer the original cork/rubberlike material with the triangular hole. The newer grip is a two toned, black and grey more conventional grip. I replaced the strap with a heavier bungee as the newer one is quite thin and did not inspire confidence. Still cannot be beat.

I bought this walking stick to use after knee surgery instead of the clunky drugstore cane that gave me tennis elbow with the first knee surgery. It's light, easy to adjust, and stable. I'm very pleased with it.

Bought a pair for walkers in their 70s, got one for a post-polio relative, sent a pair to daughter and son in law who are major hikers, rock climbers, and mountain buffs and got one for me to assist me in my occasional battle with gout. Everybody is happy with the product because we are "trekking" instead of toddling. Several friends ordered one as soon as they saw ours. My research paid off this time.

I have come to rely heavily on Amazon ratings and reviews as well as their reliable and economical sales. Amazon is a major resource for me and mine.

I am very happy with this product. The cork grip is very comfortable and fits nicely in the hand, forwards or backwards. It collapses for easy traveling and very sturdy when readjusted. My only complaint is, once it's collapsed, trying to set it back up - There are 3 sections to the walking stick and the height is adjusted by sequentially tightening each section by rotating the tube above the section you are adjusting. There's a little device inside that tightens and expands as you rotate the tubing over it. The problem is, it is very touchy - you can't just shorten one length by several inches and tighten it. You have to shorten it by 1-2", tighten, then loosen just the right amount, advance another 1-2", tighten, then loosen, etc. until you reach the length you want. If you over loosen, you have to start all over again. If you never pack it away and never change the length, this isn't a problem. But if you want to transport it in your luggage or backpack and then have to lengthen it, it can take 10-15 minutes to readjust it.

I needed an aid after hip replacement surgery and decided to go for the "Wanderfreund" because it'll still be useful as a hiking stick after I no longer need a cane. It has a great look, doesn't scream "geriatric". I like the interestingly shaped cork grip and the fact that it can be telescoped into a very short length if desired. Be cautious, however, if you need to use the rubber tip in wet conditions, as it slips horribly. It has a rounded shape and very little surface area actually touches the ground. It would probably be fine if I could take off the rubber cap and rely on the spike, but that's not an option in the supermarket.

Recovering from hip surgery due to an accident, I graduated from crutches to a cane. I was given a big, clunky, geriatric-looking cane that I disliked immediately. After shopping around for an alternative I found the Leki Wanderfreund. It turned out to be a great purchase. The open handle design allows you to use it as a cane or a walking stick. The attached strap makes it easy to slip on your wrist while you open a door or search for your car keys. It is lightweight, but supported me with no problem. It was very comfortable to use as a cane, easy to swing or move due to its light weight, good grip on the floor, and easily adjustable. It is a sporty alternative to a medical issue cane; I got lots of complements on it! Having recovered from the surgery, I now use the Leki as an adjustable walking/hiking stick, giving me more value for the money.

I have been using Leki Wanderfreunds since 2006 and these poles have been miraculous for me as a handicapped person with walking disabilities. Compared to the clunky metal canes that are standard-issue for anyone in need of a cane, these are much lighter weight and easier to manage. Their cork handles are also far more comfortable and ergonomic. I am a bird watcher and these cane poles have enabled me to return to hiking in nature. For that purpose I strongly recommend that anyone using these also get the supplementary "baskets" that keep the poles from sinking into soft earth. I also recommend that someone with a walking disability use two poles. The poles are also good looking enough for me to use in the office and at formal events.

....what better compliment? I left two in my native England and left them both there (somewhere) on different trips.

I have had two major foot operations and this really helps me keep the weight off my foot when it hurts. I also like to look cool at 57 and this does the trick as opposed to an old persons cane :)

Keys can be hung on the handle with a caribiner too

Superb - Now can someone buy me another?

David Saunders
Charlotte NC
[...]

The Leki Wanerfreund Treking pole was recommended to us by our son as a very good cane for use by my wife. The best price was found on line at Amazon.com.
The treking pole was delivered by FedEx, but we never received it. A complaint
to Amazon about the delivery was answered by sending another Treking Pole with next day delivery by UPS. This was totally unexpected and very much appreciated. We
find the Wanderfreund Treking Pole to be exactly what was needed as it has the adjustments to fit my 82 year old wife and is very lite weight.

Great product,ordered Monday got Friday and was the free shipping option too.Just got back from first trip with my new Wanderfreund.Hiked up to local waterfall 12 degrees at start the falls were a massive hunk of ice by now.The trail also provided many hazards&creek crossings which with my leki I made my way without any sidetrips to Bustassville.A hiker I met even commented about how the cork grip looks.I'ts really lite and easy to control and it doesn't look like you just got it from the geriatric supplys at Wally world!