Nordic Walking Poles

Built for rhythm and propulsion, our Nordic and sport walking poles turn your walk into a full-body workout. Straps, suitable tips and lightweight design: here's how to choose the right pair for Nordic walking.

Nordic walking, a complete workout

Nordic walking isn't simply hiking with poles: it's a sporting activity where you actively propel your body forward with every stride, working your arms, shoulders and core. Here, the poles are tools for propulsion rather than just support. The result is a complete, toning, cardio workout that's very different from ordinary walking. The kit is designed specifically for this.

The strap glove: the key element

The big difference lies in the strap glove: a sort of mitt attached to the handle, which lets you open your hand at the end of the push while keeping the pole linked to your wrist. This system allows for the broad, rhythmic motion of Nordic walking, which simply isn't possible with a basic wrist strap. A well-fitted glove, in the right size, is essential for an effective and comfortable session.

Lightness, materials and tips

The fast pace calls for lightness: lightweight aluminium, and above all carbon, cuts down on fatigue across all those repeated movements. The tip is specific too: an angled rubber pad grips well on roads and hard trails, while a carbide point is better suited to soft ground. The right pole height, often fixed, is set according to your own height for an optimal stride.

Use and technique

Unlike hiking poles, Nordic walking poles are often a fixed length and chosen according to the user's height. This full-body activity works every muscle: it's a genuine endurance sport. Fancy comparing them with hiking versions? You'll find everything you need in our walking poles.

What are they for?

Designed solely for Nordic and sports walking, these poles aren't a substitute for mountain trekking poles, and vice versa. Choose them for their specific strap glove and tip if you practise this toning, full-body sport. From casual to serious use, several models are available depending on your level: generally offered in three fixed heights, built to last, they suit beginners and seasoned Nordic walkers alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Nordic walking poles and hiking poles?

Nordic walking poles have a glove-style strap (mitten) that lets your hand open at the end of the push, plus a specific rubber tip for propulsion. Walking poles, on the other hand, are all about support and balance, with a simple wrist strap.

What's a gauntlet?

It's a mitt attached to the handle that connects the pole to your wrist while allowing your hand to open freely at the end of the push. This system enables the long, rhythmic stride of Nordic walking, something a classic wrist strap simply can't do.

How to choose the right size for your Nordic walking poles?

Usually a fixed length, they're chosen according to your height: a rough formula (height × 0.68 or so) gives you the indicative size. A grip that fits your hand and a length suited to you ensure an efficient, pain-free stride.

Can you go hiking with Nordic walking poles?

It's not ideal: their rubber tip and fixed length aren't well suited to rugged mountain terrain. For hiking, go for telescopic or folding poles with a carbide tip and adjustable length.

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