The experts consulted for this story do not necessarily endorse the products ahead unless otherwise noted.
Recently, we reported on a pretty mind-blowing study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology that suggested improved cardiac function in participants who committed to Nordic walking, which involves walking sticks or trekking poles.
Compared to normal walking, the addition of poles or sticks forces the walker to engage the upper body muscles, as well as the lower body, for more well-rounded movement. (You can learn more about Nordic walking in our previous coverage.)
Boosted heart health aside, we learned from tons of people who purchased the TrailBuddy hiking sticks — which are the highest-rated pair of trekking poles on Amazon — that they offer additional benefits to walking routines, especially for those who may find this vital form of exercise challenging to begin with.
According to an overwhelming majority, these collapsible and well-constructed trekking poles make walking easier, safer, and, even improve posture, thus making walking a more comfortable experience.
For instance, several reviewers who claimed to have prior injuries or other health conditions that make walking difficult consider the TrailBuddy sticks an affordable way to achieve their walking and health goals confidently and independently.
Made from aircraft-grade aluminum and weighing less than 10 ounces each, the TrailBuddy poles are height-adjustable up to 54 inches to accommodate most statures. When not fully extended, the poles collapse to 24.5 inches or disassemble to just 21 inches, making them easy to store or take along on trips where there might be a lot of walking required. The lever locks on each pole also help ensure they’re secure enough to bear weight and only require the use of one hand to adjust between heights.
This TrailBuddy set comes with three sets of different tip attachments so no matter if you’re using these poles to walk on rocky terrain, muddy trails, or just your neighborhood sidewalk, these walking sticks have got you covered. One reviewer even claimed they use these to walk securely on icy and snowy surfaces during a Wisconsin winter.
You can also expect another simple yet thoughtful design feature with the TrailBuddy poles: padded wrist straps on each of the moisture-wicking cork handles to add a bit more support.
“Best purchase of the year,” “great investment” and “much better than a cane” are just some of the words of endorsement from TrailBuddy pole owners that you can read up ahead. Or head to the link above to grab a pair for yourself to make this small and effective change in your health.
“I like the sporty design of these poles, and because they take the pain out of walking for me. I have a congenital problem with my feet and osteoporosis in my hips. With my being over weight walking more than a short distance hurts. These poles take some of the weight off my feet and hips, which means less problems with achy joints. I felt like I was engaging my whole body in walking, thus more of a workout. My doctor also approved this as a good aerobic activity for me. These poles are light weight, easy to adjust the length and the locking mechanism holds the sections firmly in place.” — wimie-timie-lady
“I use these for balance and walking with a straighter back. I have spinal fractures and need a bit of support while walking. These provide that support and make it easier and safer for me to take short walks. I love the ability to be active without putting to much strain on my back or my balance. These also came with other attachments, which I have not tried yet. I will update my post when I have.” — DarkSkye828
“These are so great. I need to walk more and have been using a cane but these are so much better. I have tremors in my legs and neuropathy and walking is important. These help me balance and make walking easier. I’m already up to a mile!” — Amazon customer
“Best purchase this year!!! TrailBuddy Trekking Poles have made it so much easier/safer for walking in Wisconsin’s winter. I have used them on gravel, ice, snow covered ice. snow. I feel so much more balanced and safe using the Trailbuddy Poles. I will eventually need a knee replacement, the poles have enabled me to walk much more than I have prior to using them. Great investment.” — Joan H.
“At first mom was not convinced she would ever walk the neighborhood again without Dad alongside of her. We used the trek poles in the home, out on the patio and then down the street to the neighbors. mom walks several times a week with the neighbors and at the mall. Her report ‘they make me feel steady and safe much better than the cane and the walker’ easier to fold up and carry. She wants two pair so she has them with her both in Michigan and in Texas! Thank You !!!!” — deborah price
If the TrailBuddy trekking poles don’t seem like the perfect fit for you, take a look at some of these other walking stick options from some of our previous coverage written by HuffPost senior wellness reporter Jillian Wilson.
Anti-shock Nordic trekking poles
This set of anti-shock Nordic trekking poles from The Fit Life comes in five different colors and feature a comfortable grip for your hands. It also has pads for the bottom of the poles to make walking simpler. The kit has more than 8,000 five-star reviews.
Montem ultra-strong trekking poles
These ultra-strong trekking poles from the brand Montem can be easily adjusted so you get get the right height for you. They’re lightweight and come in multiple color options; they’re also highly recommended with more than 1,000 five-star reviews.