Guide to Walking Sticks

Walking sticks are very personal items and each one should be chosen to suit the requirements of its user. These vary greatly and so there are many different types of handles. The main variations are shown here. When selecting a new cane, users should try various handles to find the shape and size that is most comfortable and supportive for them.

CROOK

A classic shape, traditionally formed by steaming and bending the wood but also available in man-made materials. Conveniently hooks over the arm.
   

CRUTCH

Simple right angle handle that supports the user’s weight directly above the shaft of the stick.

DERBY

Elegantly shaped right angle handle. Very supportive and can also be hooked over the arm.

PETITE

A small scale, elegant handle that people with small hands find easier to handle.

KNOBSTICK

A traditional, one-piece country stick, each with a unique, rounded handle, grown from coppiced hardwoods.

PISTOL GRIP

Shaped to resemble the form of a pistol butt, the off-set handle is comfortable and stylish.

STAFF

A simple, upright handle on a long stick for hiking, usually fitted with a wrist strap.

THUMBSTICK

A naturally occurring shape, held with the thumb in the V and the fingers clasped around the stick.

FISCHER

Supportive orthopaedic design for left and right hands, designed by an Austrian, Dr Fischer, to assist arthritis and rheumatism sufferers.

RELAX

Orthopaedic handle for left and right hands. Supports front of hand and curves away from back of hand.

ANATOMIC / ERGONOMIC

Orthopaedic handle for left and right hands. Often suits arthritis and rheumatism sufferers with smaller hands.

ESCORT

Ergonomically designed to provide a firm grip and prevent the hand slipping forward.

CAP STICK

An upright and often decorative handle for formal and elegant dress canes.

CHARACTER

Novelty collectors’ handles in the Victorian tradition, often in the shapes of animals and birds.