The Difference Between Hiking Poles & Walking Sticks

Although walking sticks and hiking poles provide support, assist with balance and make it easier to navigate, they are also vastly different. Your physical condition, your budget, your personality and the intended purpose of the walking stick or hiking poles will help determine which suits your needs.

  1. Shock Absorption

    • The weight of the hiking poles, along with their design and length adjustability, makes them better suited to absorb shock and alleviate stress. In contrast, walking sticks are not created to reduce joint stress.

    Portability

    • Walking sticks can be found and left on the trail. If you bring your own walking stick, it is a single unit to carry, but its length is fixed. In contrast, hiking sticks are sold in pairs, but they are collapsible.

    Style

    • Although most walking sticks are free, some people enjoy carving their own wooden walking sticks or purchasing a decorative one. Hiking poles are usually purchased and have wrist loops. When purchasing, try a few pairs and see what is comfortable for your needs.

    Intended Purpose

    • The location and frequency of use will also affect your decision to use a walking stick or hiking poles. Rougher terrain and more frequent use may make hiking sticks more appealing, especially since their length is adjustable, whereas a walking stick may be satisfactory for less rigorous hikes.

    Equilibrium

    • Since hiking sticks are used in pairs, your body will feel more balanced and it will be easier to maintain a constant pace whereas a walking stick is used on only one side so your stability is not as smooth or consistent.