To select a correct walking stick for an individual, the first step is to determine the proper length of the walking sticks. The proper length of the walking stick allow for an individual to create a 90-degree angle at they elbow when the walking stick is placed on flat ground. If the walking stick is too long, the individual will have to shrug their shoulders to accommodate teh length of the walking stick.
If the walking stick is too short, the individual will have to lean forward when walking. Creating a 90-degree angle at the elbow with the walking stick will allow for the individual’s weight to be distributed efficient with their center of gravity staying balanced. The terrain that the individual is navigating will play a crucial role in the type of walking stick that they use.
How to Choose a Walking Stick
An adjustable walking stick will allow an individual to change the length of the walking stick based off the terrain that they are navigating. When an individual is walking uphill, the walking stick should be shorter so that an individual does not overextend their body. However, when an individual are descending a hill, the walking stick should be longer to aid as a brake for the individual.
Lengthening the walking stick allow for an individual to move the impact of their body mass away from their kneecaps to their arms. These adjustments should of been made prior to starting to climb or descend the hill. The material of the walking stick will determine the weight of the stick and the durability of the walking stick.
Aluminum walking sticks are common because the material will bend instead of snap the walking stick if it is pushed to its limits. Carbon fiber walking sticks are another option as the material is lighter than aluminum and cause less fatigue in the arms of an individual that is walking for extended periods. However, the downside of carbon fiber is that it is brittle if pushed against lateral force.
It could break if wedged between two rock. Aluminum walking sticks are safer for those terrains as they may encounter lateral forces. The grip on the walking stick will affect how an individual’s hand interact with the walking stick.
Cork is a common material for the grip on walking sticks. Cork breathe so it wont get sweaty in an individual’s hand. Additionally, over time the cork molds to the individuals hand.
Another material for the grip is foam. This material will work well when the terrain is wet as it will not get sweaty. Lastly, rubber is a material that will provide insulation for an individual’s hands in temperatures as low as 32 degree.
The wrist strap on the walking stick should not be too narrow as it may dig into the skin. Instead, a wide and padded wrist strap will distribute the pressure of the walking stick on the skin of an individual’s wrist. This will prevent blisters from forming on there skin.
The tip of the walking stick will allow the walking stick to interact with the ground. Rubber tips is suitable walking stick for sidewalks but will not provide much grip for scree slopes. The alternative material for walking sticks are tips made of carbide and steel as they will bite into rocks and snow.
Additionally, if an individual is walking through deep snow, the walking stick should have a snow basket to prevent it from sinking into the snow. An individual can choose to use one walking stick or two walking sticks. Using only one walking stick will allow for one hand to be free.
This might be desired when an individual is performing casual walks. However, the majority of individuals will opt for using a pair of walking sticks when they are carrying a heavy pack or walking on more technical terrain. Using a pair of walking sticks will even out the stress on the joints.
An individual will be able to use a four-legged gait to navigate the terrain which will reduce the stress on their joints. Additionally, using a pair of sticks will allow for more stability in uneven terrain.
