[at-l] Re: trekking poles

[m_factor@hotmail.com (Mara Factor)]

Hi Laura,

Just so you know, REI stands for Recreational Equipment Inc., a US based 
cooperative.  Like MEC, they are both a retailer and have their own branded 
equipment.  You can find them on-line at http://rei.com/

Leki poles are from a company headquartered out of Germany.  You can find 
them on-line at http://leki.com

Lekis are probably the most popular brand on the AT.  They aren't just 
popular because of any sort of name recognition, but they have excellent 
products and fantastic service.  They service and provide replacement parts 
for their poles for thruhikers without any questions asked.  Retailers often 
know this and are willing to help out thruhikers knowing that the 
manufacturer will reimburse them for any expenses incurred as a result.

They have earned their reputation.

Other poles might be just as good, but since their use isn't as prevalent 
along the trail, getting service for them can be mroe problematic than with 
Lekis.

I know of people who had problem with their non-Leki poles along the trail 
and ended up buying Lekis when they needed service rather go through the 
hassle the non-Leki brand company wanted to put them through to get 
replacement parts.

Mara
Stitches, GAME99

>From: "Turner, Laura" <lturneo@essex.ac.uk>
>Date: Thu, 28 Feb 2002 00:04:53 -0000
>
...
>I'm curious though who else (especially in the States) makes good 
>equipment.  Honestly, I'd never even heard of Lekis and am not sure with 
>REI stands for...

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