Our LEKI Spitfire Vario 3D pole review explores a stylish freestyle ski pole with the evolved Trigger 3D strap system. Read on to learn more.
introduce
Leki is the industry leader in pole manufacturing, offering options for nearly every outdoor activity that requires the use of a pole. We have been honored to work with them for many years and use many of their models. These include poles for skiing and ski touring, mountain climbing, mountaineering and running. We’ve linked selected reviews of their products below.
Some Leki models also feature an innovative trigger strap system. This is a system that combines a mechanism on the pole handle with an attachment point on the belt. It connects and releases the wristband efficiently and quickly. Recently, Leki has revamped the Trigger system with its Trigger 3D variant, which we were eager to test. Read on to find out more in our LEKI Spitfire Vario 3D Poles review.
To bring or not to bring?
Before we dive into the Leki Spitfire 3D Vario Poles review, we want to consider the pros and cons of using straps. While most ski poles still come with some form of straps, the question of whether or not to use straps is sure to generate a variety of opinions.
Sometimes it can be beneficial to secure yourself to a pole. For ski touring, it may help drive your movement through your arms and upper body. In this case, using a leash can also help you get through the pole without over-gripping. Likewise, with Nordic skiing, the belt helps provide propulsion. Of course, having straps also prevents you from losing your poles in deep powder or losing your grip on them midway through a steep section.
On the other hand, staying connected to a pole can sometimes be more dangerous than being separated from it. If you’re skiing in treed terrain, you may get stuck or encounter tree wells. It can also mean more embarrassing falls that can cause damage to your hands or wrists. Of course, in avalanche terrain, being able to throw the pole out may be safer and minimize injury or help as a location marker. This is a topic that divides opinion among skiers.
Most poles still come with straps. If you use them, they’re there, but if you don’t, they usually flap around while you’re skiing. The most obvious solution is to wear a leash, but for safety the leash will release itself when needed. Is this what the Leki Trigger system has to offer? Let’s explore this with our Leki Spitfire 3D Vario Poles review.
feature
Leki describes the Spitfire Vario 3D as “the perfect companion for demanding descents”. The rod is a straight-shaft design with a 16mm cylindrical upper tube and 14mm lower tube. The stem section is made of HTS 6.5 aluminum. They have a steel tip (Leki calls it a Flex Tip).
variable or fixed length
We tested the vario version, which has an adjustable upper bar section that is infinitely adjustable between 110 and 140 cm. Leki also offers the Spitfire 3D in various fixed lengths, from 95 to 135 cm (in 5 cm increments).
Grip and trigger 3D system
The Spitfire Vario 3D comes with Leki’s Trigger 3D ProG grip. This is a contoured grip with a Trigger 3D cap on top. We’ll explore the Trigger 3D system in more detail later, but it combines a clip and locking mechanism on the bar with loops on the strap (or compatible Leki gloves, like the Rubic 3D gloves on test) here). This allows the user to connect and disconnect the rod quickly and easily. Leki says the 3D system is an evolution of the Leki Trigger S system, offering 4x the expansion, providing a 220-degree release range.
belt
Spitfire equipped with Leki Trigger 3D frame with net. Leki says this is wider and more comfortable than previous straps.
basket
Leki’s Big Mountain and Cobra Alpine baskets both come with poles. The Cobra Alpine is a smaller basket meant for harder snow (on-piste), while the Big Mountain basket should perform well in softer snow conditions (off-piste).
Other details
The Spitfire 3D Varios costs £114.95 and weighs 289g. The color combination is described as Denim Blue, Aegean Blue and Mustard Yellow.
In use
modeling
Regardless of how a product performs, when we walk into a store and choose that gear, it’s human nature to be attracted to the appearance of the product first before considering other factors. So, appearance does matter! On that note, let’s first consider the Spitfire’s styling. Well, we really like them. The color combination is what Leki calls a mix of denim and Aegean blue with mustard yellow elements. The effect is very good. The poles also coordinate well with the baskets and straps following the same scheme. The only contrast is the red capture of the Trigger 3D system. Leki’s styling is well done.
Grip
The Spitfire Vario 3D comes with Leki’s Trigger 3D ProG grip. Of course, an important part of exploring this is the Trigger 3D system, but that will be discussed later in the review. The grip itself is in great shape and feels very comfortable in the hand. Even with the Trigger 3D system, the shape of the hat allows you to comfortably place your hands on it when needed. We often like to do this in a variety of situations. For example, when reaching the pole for a steady descent.
Trigger 3D system
The trigger system is very tried and tested. We have been using variations of it for years and really rate it for snow sports activities. Leki described the 3D mechanics as an evolution from previous versions. Inevitably, things like this evolve with time, testing, and resources. It’s great that companies like Leki are constantly striving to push the boundaries of new design development.
3D is a major evolution. You get used to it quickly, but to engage the previous version you needed to insert the connector ring directly into the snapping mechanism on the stem. To release, press the button and pull the belt loop straight up. In comparison, the Trigger 3D version allows for 4x expansion, providing a 220-degree release range.
The result is easier removal of the strap from the grip. It’s definitely easier. If you’re used to the old system, you’ll see the benefits immediately. If you are new to trigger systems, you will find that removing the belt loop is very easy. We think this is a very significant improvement.
This improvement is also reflected in the safety advantages of 3D systems. The trigger system has always allowed the straps (or compatible gloves) to break when pulled hard, but now they can break through a wider range of angles. This is very effective. The video below is a good demonstration of this disconnect system in action.
Belts and gloves
The Spitfire Vario 3D boat is equipped with a Leki Trigger 3D frame with mesh straps. It’s very comfortable and has a simple Velcro adjustment that can be worn over gloves or mittens. The straps are definitely sturdier than some versions we’ve used before, but the extra width adds to the comfort and is a pleasure to use. In fact, you won’t even notice it once it’s installed on the glove. Another option is to use gloves that are compatible with the Leki Trigger system, we recently tested the Rubic 3D gloves and they worked perfectly with the Trigger 3D bars. Please check this review here.
Adjustable rod vs fixed length rod?
Choosing between adjustable or fixed lengths depends on a variety of factors. Having some adjustability is very useful, we often adjust the length depending on the terrain. The disadvantage may be that there are more elements that may fail. You also want to make sure the inside of the rod is dry after use, otherwise the rod sections may fuse together over time. It also adds slightly more weight.
But here we are reviewing the adjustable version, which is extremely easy to adjust. You simply click to open the Speed Lock Plus external clamping system and slide the bar height to any length within a 30 cm range. This would be enough of an adjustment for any situation I could imagine, and I feel like the good definitely outweighs the bad.
The Vario is partially locked using Leki’s TÜV Süd-certified Speed Lock Plus external clamping system. TÜV Süd is a product testing and certification organization. Detailed information about this test system is available at here. The Speed Lock Plus also works easily when wearing gloves, and we had no issues with it slipping at all. They are also very low-key. If you’re skiing in the woods, the chances of them getting caught on a tree branch are slim to none.
basket
The Spitfire comes with 2 types of baskets. The first is a smaller sized basket that works well in very hard snow. They also offer a pair of Big Mountain baskets. These work great in deeper snow or when traveling. Big Mountains have a short edge for adjusting the bindings and a long edge for scraping icy skis or clearing snow from the ski base. This is the basket we use most.
Other considerations
Much of this review will inevitably focus on the merits of the Trigger 3D system, but this clever mechanism means nothing if the poles themselves can’t withstand a tough life on the slopes. This is not a problem. The construction of the poles, the security of the Speed Lock Plus, and the thick pole diameter make them very strong. We’re sure that no matter what you throw at them, they’ll keep bouncing back (within reason!).
generalize
Our LEKI Spitfire Vario 3D poles review details a pair of high-spec poles ideal for freestyle skiers. They are engineered to provide a balance between toughness and performance. They are also beautifully constructed. The Spitfire Vario 3D also benefits from the Leki Trigger 3D system. This is an exciting evolution of the well-proven standard Leki Trigger S system and offers clear performance and safety benefits.
These poles will suit you if you stay on the slopes, but are also perfect for anyone who wants to get off the beaten track. They even work for some touring events. They are a very versatile pole and no matter what the use, they always bring you the benefits of the Trigger 3D system. Full details visit the Leki website here. The video below also explains the Trigger 3D system very well.
We have worked with Leki for many years and have reviewed a range of their products. In addition to the LEKI Spitfire Vario 3D Poles review, check out our review of the MCT Vario Carbon here. So does our review of their Makalu FX Carbon here Sherpa FX Carbon is here. We also have a wide range of other product reviews, all of which can be found on our reviews page here.
