Nordic Walking Poles

Nordic walking poles are sized to the arm, not to the hill

A pair of nordic walking poles is used together and planted behind the body, so the arms push the walker forward instead of simply steadying them. The range covers telescopic two-section and three-piece poles, folding travel models that pack into a bag, and lighter sets aimed at beginners and at older walkers. What separates them from a trekking pole is the strap: a nordic strap wraps the hand like a fingerless glove so force transfers through the wrist when the grip opens.

What length should nordic walking poles be?

Stand upright on flat ground, hold a pole with the tip beside the foot and let the elbow drop to the side. The forearm should sit roughly level, giving something close to a right angle at the elbow. Higher than that and the shoulders lift; lower and the push shortens. Telescopic poles let this be adjusted after a few sessions, once technique settles, which is why an adjustable set suits anyone starting out and a fixed-length set suits someone who already knows their number.

How do nordic poles differ from trekking poles?

Nordic technique is propulsion, trekking technique is support. Nordic poles are angled backwards and planted behind the heel to drive the stride, and the strap does most of the work, so the grip can stay relaxed. Trekking poles are planted ahead or beside the foot to absorb descent and steady a load, which is a different action entirely and usually a different length. Anyone walking rough ground with a pack rather than covering distance on paths is looking at hiking sticks instead. Where only one hand is free, a single hiking stick for men does the steadying work on its own.

Telescopic, folding or fixed?

• Two-section telescopic: fewer joints, more rigidity, and a packed length that still needs a rucksack side pocket.
• Three-piece: shorter when collapsed and easier to stow in luggage, with one more lock to check before each walk.
• Folding travel poles: shortest packed size of all, quick to deploy, and generally set to one length rather than adjustable.
• Lock type: external lever clamps are adjustable in gloves and easy to inspect, twist locks are cleaner but need retightening as they wear.

What do the tips and baskets do?

The carbide tip is for soft ground, ice and grit; the rubber paw that slides over it is for tarmac and paving, where a bare tip skates and makes a racket. Angled rubber feet exist because a nordic pole is planted behind the body, so the contact face needs to meet the ground at a slant. Baskets stop the pole sinking in mud or snow, and larger snow baskets go on when winter conditions call for crampons underfoot as well.

How are walking poles maintained?

Take the sections apart after wet walks and dry the insides, because water sitting in a lower shaft corrodes an alloy joint and swells a twist lock until it slips. Check the rubber paws before each outing, since they wear through quietly and the carbide underneath then meets the pavement. Store poles extended and loose rather than clamped tight, which spares the locking mechanism.