Walking sticks are a great way to help maintain a steady balance and provide more traction when walking on uneven surfaces, but it is important to have the correct height for your walking stick. A stick that is too high can cause strain on your arms and back, while a stick that is too short can fail to provide enough stability when needed. Fortunately, measuring for a correctly sized walking stick is easy, and finding one that fits your individual needs is simple.
Benefits of Properly Sized Walking Sticks
Having the correct size walking stick comes with its own set of benefits. The right size stick can provide increased stability when needed, reduce stress placed on the back, improve balance while walking, as well as provide an overall feeling of ease and security. Walking sticks also increase your sense of independence and mobility. It is important to select the right size for your body and activity level.
How to Measure for the Proper Height
Measuring for a correctly sized walking stick is relatively easy and requires only a few simple steps. First, measure from the floor to either your hip or wrist. For general use, hip height is the best measurement to use, while if you’re going to be engaging in more strenuous activities such as hiking, selecting a slightly longer stick, up to wrist level, may be helpful. Once you’ve obtained this measurement, simply add the appropriate amount of height (usually around 3-4 inches) to this measurement and you’ll have your ideal walking stick height.
Tips for Finding the Right Size Stick
When selecting a walking stick, there are a few things to consider. The most important feature to consider is the weight that it can support. Generally, walking sticks should be able to support at least 150-200lbs. But if you weigh more than that, select a stick that can support up to 250lbs. Additionally, consider the materials it’s made of. Sticks made from strong materials such as aluminum and fiberglass tend to be the best choices. Furthermore, look for a rigid stick with no give and an adjustable height setting.
Different Types of Walking Sticks
Walking sticks come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to select a type that fits your needs. Some popular walking sticks include the traditional straight stick, folding sticks, and adjustable height sticks. Traditional straight sticks are great for day-to-day use such as shopping and errands and tend to be the most popular option. Folding sticks are better suited for traveling and can compress down for easier storage and transport. Lastly, adjustable height sticks are great if you find yourself in multiple environments where the ground varies in height. All of these types of walking sticks should fit the criteria mentioned “How to Measure for the Proper Height” section above.
Adjustable Walking Sticks
Adjustable walking sticks are an excellent choice for those who find themselves in several environments where the ground varies in height. Many of these sticks have an adjustable range from a few inches up to a full foot or greater. They are designed such that each pole is made up of several segments that can be extended or retracted as needed to get the correct height. Some adjustable sticks even have a special locking mechanism built in to prevent them from collapsing accidentally.
Choosing the Right Handle Style
In addition to selecting the appropriate length, it’s important to find a handle style that fits your needs. There are several different types of handles available including ergonomic handles, T-handles, curved handles, and pistol grips. Ergonomic and curved handles are best suited for general use while pistol grips are better suited for activities that require increased stability such as hiking or trekking. T-handles are preferred by some because they leave the hands free while providing stability.
Common Problems with Incorrectly Sized Walking Sticks
Using an incorrectly sized walking stick can lead to a number of problems such as fatigue, back pain, and even falls. If your walking stick is too long it can require you to hunch over when using it, leading to fatigue and back pain. Conversely, if your stick is too short it can fail to provide adequate stability when needed, leading to falls or other dangerous situations. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you have selected an appropriately sized walking stick.
Accessories for Your Walking Stick
There are several accessories available that work with walking sticks. Rubber grips are often used because they provide more comfort and better traction. Additionally, tips can be added to the end of the stick to provide more stability when needed. In addition, some companies sell safety lights and even GPS tracking units that attach directly to the bottom of your walking stick.
How to Care for Your Stick
Lastly, it’s important to properly care for your walking stick in order to extend its life and keep yourself safe while using it. Always store it in a dry location when not in use and wipe down any moisture or debris on a regular basis. If necessary, tighten any loose screws or replace worn parts immediately. Additionally, inspect the tip regularly for signs of wear and tear and replace it when necessary.