Equipment & what to wear

 

About nordic walking poles

You walk with ultra-light poles fitted with ergonomically designed grips and supportive straps that cradle your hand comfortably. Nordic walking poles have metal tips for use on softer surfaces and interchangeable, shock absorbing ‘paws’ for use on tarmac and pavements.

Moving Feet uses top quality, market leading Exel and Leki nordic walking poles to ensure you get the maximum benefit from your exercise.

Where can I buy my own nordic walking poles?

An increasing number of sports retailers are now stocking nordic walking poles - go to my links page for a selection or see British Nordic Walking or Nordic Walking Uk's website .  Check the chart here to see the size you need. 

 

For more information please read my article, advice on buying nordic walking poles.

Can I use trekking poles for nordic walking?

Nordic walking poles are lighter and less cumbersome than trekking poles. The grips and straps are designed specifically for nordic walking techniques so you avoid the discomfort that can be caused by using poorly adapted equipment for the job.  We mostly use Exel nordic walking poles in our classes so you can try them out and compare them to trekking poles.

Can I use my ski poles?

For nordic walking you need poles that are significantly shorter than you would use for cross country ski-ing, for example I use a 115cm nordic walking pole but a 140cm classic ski pole. Using the right pole length means you enjoy your exercise more and ski poles usually have baskets, which make them slightly awkward for nordic walking.

 

What do I wear for nordic walking?

 

Footwear

The right footwear is the most important thing - supportive trainers or walking shoes. Avoid anything with a rigid sole or walking boots [unless you're heading for big hills].   Trail shoes usually offer good support and grip with some being usefully Gore-tex lined to keep your feet dry in wet grass or on a damp day.

Run and Become, Cotswold Outdoor, and Gear for Girls all stock good ranges of footwear.

Read this article if you'd like to know which shoes nordic walking tutors wear, the Asics Gel Trail Lahar which are Gore-tex and waterproof get my vote.

Clothing

With nordic walking you’ll get warm once you’re on the move, so wear layers of the sort of unrestrictive clothes that you’d use for walking or running. You’ll feel more comfortable if you wear breathable or wicking fabrics that move moisture away from the skin – running and outdoor shops have the best selection.  Avoid cotton t-shirts and jeans that rapidly feel heavy and clammy when they get damp.