Nordic Walking poles: what to pay attention to when buying?

Nordic walking is done with the help of special sticks, which move not only the legs but also the upper body. It should take a special care on the selection of Nordic walking poles be placed.

The correct length of the sticks

For one, a couple should Nordic walking poles generally the same length and on the other hand, the sticks must have the correct length. This can easily be calculated by yourself: For this, your own height is measured in centimeters with the value 0.66. The result is the right stick length. If the calculated length is between two different sizes, it is advisable to select the smaller size. However, there are also models where one telescopeis present so that the length can be adjusted individually depending on the size.

Different materials

Nordic walking sticks are by no means simple walking sticks, On the contrary, they are not only longer, but also made of lighter materials. For example, they offer Nordic walking poles made of aluminum, carbon and CFRP glass fiber. For example, carbon is much better able to absorb shock than aluminum. However, carbon sticks, due to the material and their production, significantly more expensive. However, it is important that the tip of the poles is made of a durable carbide and is interchangeable. If you like running on concrete paths and feel the noise of the tips on the floor as disturbing, here can provide relief in the form of coatings. These are simply slipped over the tips of the sticks and offered under the names „Rubber Buffers“, „Asphalt Pads“ or the like. However, the coatings not only dampen the sounds, but they also absorb the „beats“ that occur when they arise on the floor.

What else should be considered?

Very important when buying Nordic Walking poles is an ergonomically shaped handle. This may leave neither pressure points nor scrub. In addition, the handle should be good in the hand. As a rule, handles made of Nordic walking sticks made of cork or plastic. Cork has the advantage here that it can be breathable and also absorbs sweat better. The hand straps of the sticks are equipped with thumb loops. They too should be good in the hand. In addition, it is important to make sure that they pass their hands very close to the sticks. Furthermore, there must be no chafing, which may arise between the index finger and the thumb. There are now Nordic walking poles with adjustable hand loops so that they can be adjusted as needed. For longer tours wearing gloves is recommended. Popular are example Nordic walking poles from LEKI and Exel.

The right use

In addition to choosing suitable Nordic walking poles and suitable shoes, it is important to practice this sport properly. Here, the stick, which is located behind the own body while running, only lifted, if one raises the heel from the rear foot. Furthermore, the Nordic Walking poles should not be pulled over the ground. Correct is the lifting of the sticks, which creates sweeping movements of the arms. In the meantime Nordic Walking courses are offered by the most different providers, with which the correct handling with the sticks is learned.