How do you choose the walking stick that's right for you, or someone else, when looking at the sticks on MoreThanSticks?

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a walking stick...

I’m afraid I cannot describe my sticks as medical aids; they are not certified as such.  Please consult your doctor to find out what kind of stick you need.  My sticks do vary in weight and the heavier ones will support most people; lighter ones will suit ladies and are something nice to have to simply go walking with.

Remember some people need a stick to walk…
but it’s good to simply go walking with a stick.

Crook handled sticks are designed to hook over the arm when not in use to free the hands however most of my sticks are based on the ‘Derby’ or ‘Gripper’ design (see photo).

Both of these designs are very comfortable and especially for people who are aren’t as steady on their feet as they perhaps used to be.  The handle is broad and comfortable and certainly is not NHS standard issue.

The design of these sticks positions the hand and arm directly above (and in line with) the stick shaft, so all your weight is transmitted directly to the ground.  There is no flexing or wobbling of the shank, as can happen with the NHS stick.

My sticks have to be handled to be really appreciated
and if you have to rely on a stick and want style and comfort - look no further!

Thumbsticks and Knobsticks are a taller stick designed for the user to rest the thumb of their outstretched arm for balance and to lean on.  Long sticks are more use than shorter ones for hill walking.  Ascending and, particularly, descending are made easier with a thumbstick or pole.  Anglers use a weighted stick to assist them whilst wading.

All sticks can be used with a wrist cord which also frees the hand.

The most important thing to consider is height.  Most of my sticks are unfinished in that they have not been cut to length and a ferrule has not been fitted.  This will be done once we have decided what the finished length should be.

A note on correct length for…

A walking stick – best practice currently suggests:-

·         Stand up to your full height with your hands down by your side, preferably in your usual shoes.

·         Turn the stick upside down so the handle is to the floor & the end to be cut is pointing upwards

·         Mark the stick at the level of the ulnar styloid process ( the bony prominence sticking out at the level of the wrist on the little finger side)

·         I will cut the stick to this length and add a metal ferrule.  A rubber ferrule is also added to prevent slipping.  When the stick is held normally there should be a slight bend at the elbow which allows your full weight to be applied to the stick.

·         Get help when measuring - if you do it yourself there is a tendency to lower your shoulder as you look down and your stick may then end up too short!

A staff – measure from the floor to the sternum (the bottom of the rib cage in the centre of your chest).