Where can I buy nordic walking poles and which ones should I buy, are questions I'm often asked.  So here are some tips based on personal experience.

Which brand?

Exel, Leki, Gabel and  Kompardell are the brands I use or have had recommended to me - you'll find links to their sites on my nordic walking links page.  They're all companies with an excellent reputation for poles for nordic walking, trekking and skiing.  

In my classes and personally, I mostly use Exel fixed length poles which are light, well designed and durable - some models come with a lifetime guarantee on the pole shaft.   Initially chose Exel because of their quality and the fact that I could buy a good value business set, and I'm still very happy with this purchase. 

I also use Leki Aluminium Traveller poles.  These are 3 piece poles that adjust from 80-130 cm so they fit into a suitcase or backpack for travelling.  Like any adjustabe pole, providing you screw them tightly in place, they don't slide down but you may notice a little vibration initially.  Some of my clients are also very satisfied with Leki 2 piece poles that adjust from 100-130 cm which they can set according to the terrain or how energetic they feel.

The bargain basement poles that you can sometimes find for £10-£15 are best avoided.  I've tried them; they don't enhance your walking experience, they feel tinny and uncomfortable.  The poor strap design usually makes it difficult to push back and exercise your triceps effectively. 

Kompardell and Gabel I haven't used on a walk but they have an excellent pedigree and, on inspection, Gabel poles look and feel like quality poles.

Which model?

Do want a fixed length or adjustable nordic walking pole?  You'll find fixed length poles to suit every budget - the more carbon they contain, the lighter and better 'swing' they have.  The Exel Nordic Walker Stride poles at £59.95 are a similar model to those I use in my classes.

The Leki Nordic Traveller are the most commonly found adjustable poles.  These are what I or my clients use.  Leki, Gabel and some Exel models feature a quick release strap which is useful once you get used to it and saves taking your hand out of the strap when you want something from your backpack or pocket.

Nordic walking or trekking poles?

If you're buying online, make sure that you're buying nordic walking poles not trekking poles.  Leki in particular sells a range of walking poles in the UK, most of which are the trekking pole type.   This means that the grip and strap are designed differently, and they tend to be slightly heavier.

Where to buy?

Have a look at the list of suppliers on my nordic walking links page, they all currently offer nordic walking poles.  This is not an exhaustive list but a starter list of nordic walking pole suppliers that I or my clients have happily used.  If you find others that offer good products and service please let me know.

How much will they cost?

Prices on the web change all the time both for poles and delivery charges.  For fixed length poles Nordic Walking UK have a good range of Gabel and Leki poles starting at £24.95 plus £5.00 delivery.  Exel UK supply Exel poles starting at £39.95 for the Nordic Walker Black Poison plus £4.00 delivery.

If you're looking for adjustable nordic walking poles, the Leki Aluminium Traveller poles are available from the Leki shop for £82.00 plus £4.95 for post and packing.  Nordic Walking Uk has the Gabel Stretch poles at £45.00 plus £5.00 delivery cost. 

If you don't mind buying from a continental retailer, German Sport-Tiedje has a wide range of poles at interesting prices and clients have been happy with their service.

It's the old story, spend a little time shopping round and you'll find quality poles that fit your budget.

If you think poles are expensive, just remember that you'll get years of happy walking out of them and they're cheap compared to the cost of most gym memberships.

[Article last updated January 2012]