The German and family-owned brand Leki was founded in 1970 by Karl Lenhart. Leki is an abbreviation of the founder's name and the company's headquarter, which was in Kirchheim, Germany – Lenhart in Kirchheim. At first, only alpine poles were made, but shortly afterwards the range was expanded to include both cross-country skiing poles and hiking poles. In today's assortment there is a variety of poles, gloves, hydration belts and accessories to choose from.