Choosing the right Nordic walking poles
The pole is something of a symbol of Nordic walking, so it's important to choose a model that's suited to this practice. But how do you choose the right one?Here are some tips to help you make that choice.
Nordic walking poles: single-strand or multi-strand?
In Nordic walking, it is recommended to use single-section poles to perfectly support your body weight, guide your push and absorb shocks.
However, if you move and travel regularly or if you want to have a hybrid pole (Nordic walking / hiking), you can opt for Nordic walking poles made of 2 or 3 sections, adjustable and compact.
Nordic walking poles - VENT DES FJORDS UT70 POLAIRE / STEPPE
A 70% carbon one-piece Nordic walking pole
Nordic walking poles - PRESTIGE NOMAD
Adjustable two-section nordic walking pole made of 70% carbon and 7075 aluminium alloy.
Nordic walking poles: aluminum or carbon?
Aluminum Nordic walking poles, although cheap, should be avoided because they do not absorb vibrations. This repeated discomfort could cause pain or even tendonitis.
So choose Nordic walking poles made of carbon or a fiberglass/carbon blend. They will be light and comfortable thanks to the reduced vibrations. The percentage of carbon in the strands can vary from one model to another. We recommend choosing a pole with at least 50% carbon (80% if you practice intensively).
The handles and gauntlets of Nordic walking poles
Unlike traditional walking or hiking, Nordic walkers don't grip the handle very tightly. But the "dropping and picking up" action causes some perspiration and a feeling of sweaty hands. So make sure the handle is ergonomic and absorbs perspiration (mainly cork or rubber).
The gauntlet, for its part, is of capital importance for good gestures when pushing and "returning" the pole. Simple wrist straps are a no-no!
A detachable gauntlet is very practical since it allows you, thanks to its push button, to "detach" yourself from the handle in a few seconds to refuel or do your warm-ups and stretches without wasting time.
They are sold in pairs, with a right gauntlet and a left gauntlet.
The Viper + gauntlet designed by Guidetti also allows you to store the Padapt cap when you are no longer using it (see next paragraph).
Nordic walking poles: tips and caps
As the most tested part of the pole, it is preferable that the tip is made of tungsten carbide to ensure its durability and thus allow frequent use.
A double tip allows for better grip on the ground and multidirectional positioning.
The tip, also called a stopper, shoe, pad or skate, is used in places where the tip cannot be planted (asphalt, hard ground).
Guidetti has developed a very ingenious tip: the Padapt. Thanks to its oval shape and unique composition, it deforms to let the double tip take over during pronounced pressure. It optimizes grip on asphalt and dampens the metallic noise of the tip.
Soft tip (tungsten carbide and elastomere double tip) for nordic walking.
Nordic walking poles: which size should you choose?
You can easily determine the size of your poles using the following formula:
0.68 x your height in cm = pole size
At the start, on the flat, your elbow should form a 90° angle and your forearm should be in a horizontal position.
If you are hesitating between two sizes, choose:
- the smaller size for more comfort
- the larger size for more propulsion
At Guidetti, we measure our poles from the tip of the pole to the grip point on the handle, which is about 5 cm less than the total length of the pole.
Which Guidetti Nordic walking poles should I choose?
How do you choose a model from the Vent des Fjords range or the Nomade range? What percentage of carbon should you choose? The diagrams below will help you make your choice!
We hope these tips have helped you choose your Nordic walking poles.
To find out more, please read our article: The benefits of Nordic walking.
Visit our store to discover our full range! Have a great outing!
Photo credit: Kellerman - FFA