| Sticks, Canes, Poles & Staves: The DifferencesThursday, 2 November 2017 | Admin With a plethora of walking aids on the market, we wouldn't blame anyone for feeling a little confused by the terminology. If you can't tell your sticks from your staves, or your crooks from your canes, read on for a helpful guide to the various types that are out there. Walking SticksProbably the most well-known term on the list, "walking stick" can serve as a catch-all term for most types of walking aid. However, when used in a specific sense, a walking stick would generally be a product that provides a degree of orthopaedic support and is intended for everyday use as a mobility aid. However, this isn't necessarily a cut-and-dry distinction (see canes below).
The Adjustable Anatomical Black Aluminium Walking Stick is a stellar example of a functional walking stick that is designed to offer help for those with reduced mobility. Featuring adjustable height and an anatomical handle, it is comfortable and easy to use and provides effective orthopaedic support. Key Features: Practical, functional, provides effective support Walking Canes"Cane", on the other hand, would tend to refer an item which is more decorative, ornate or fashionable. This need not mean that a cane provides no support, as many walking canes are capable of bearing a similar amount of weight as walking sticks can. However, an item whose main function is being a fashion accessory would be usually referred to as a cane. To complicate things further, the distinction between stick and cane tends to be reversed in the United States, with "stick" referring to the more decorative, and "cane" to the more functional items.
Key Features: Beautiful handle, perfect as an accessory for formal events Staffs/Staves"Staffs", or "staves" (either is acceptable) are items that were originally developed for use in rural environments, and they retain a rustic feel to this day. Usually tall (above 1m/40"), they would offer support and balance when hiking up mountain ranges or wading through streams and rivers.
Key Features: Rustic design, tall and strong, perfect for rural environments Crook HandlesLike staffs, crooks were developed in the countryside. Originally used by shepherds, their hooked handle was perfect for righting fallen sheep. Crook-style handles are now a popular choice for everyday walking sticks, but a true shepherd's crook has to be tall - usually over 1m.
Key Features: Rustic design, tall and strong, perfect for rural environments Hiking PolesIn many ways, walking or hiking poles are the modern-day cousin of staves and crooks. Developed with a similar purpose in mind – to aid mobility in rural or semi-rural environments – they are designed using the latest materials and technology. This means they can offer such features as a folding or adjustable design, something which isn't available in a staff or crook.
Key Features: Perfect for hikers, practical, sturdy design The world of sticks is a complex one, where definitions and terminology aren't always completely clear cut, so please make sure to read our product listings carefully for the most specific and relevant information pertaining to each individual stick. If you're still confused, or would like a personal recommendation, please call our customer care team on 020 7501 0591 or email us on helpdesk@walkingsticks.co.uk |
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