Equipment

What to know to about a Nordic Walking Pole

A Nordic Walking pole

Choosing the correct length/size of Nordic Walking pole is essential for effective training.
The ideal length of a Nordic Walking pole depends on your height and level of training.
To calculate the ideal length of poles, first apply a simple formula: your height X 0.68
As fixed length poles come in size increments of 5cm: the calculated length can either be rounded down (for recreational walkers) or rounded up (for fitter walkers).

Our course fees include pole hire. Take the opportunity to try different pairs to practice with during the course. We are happy to help you to find the poles which are best for you.

Here are a few points to consider before you buy.

The Shaft

Nordic Walking poles are made from Carbon Fibre (extremely light weight + strong), Composites (combination of fibreglass and resin, or fibreglass, carbon fibre and resin), or Aluminium (a metallic element used in the production of corrosion-resistant alloys).

Adjustable or fixed length?

For an intensive and dynamic training session we recommend one-piece poles: the pole is stiffer, more stable and has a better swing performance. The telescopic or "vario" pole has the advantages of small packed size and adjustability for people of different heights.

Hand strap

A good hand strap

Grip

Tip

The tip of the pole has to endure a lot of pressure. We recommend carbide tips because they are strong and do not rust.

Carbide tip
Carbide Tip
Carbide tip
Carbide Asphalt Tip

Rubber Pad

In theory you can walk on asphalt without rubber pads but a pad makes less noise and lowers the impact. Therefore we recommend the use of rubber pads.

We recommend the superb Komperdell Nordic Walking Poles: you can buy them online at www.walkingsport.co.uk