Sooner or later you are likely to need a cane or walking stick. Whether it is because you hurt yourself, or you are unsteady on your feet, a cane can improve your mobility and stability. Canes and walking sticks come in so many materials, heights and styles that it would be impossible to name them all. Here are some of the basics.

Comfort is paramount when you are picking a walking stick or cane. Traditionally speaking a walking stick is generally used in hiking endeavors. Straight from top to bottom they offer no hand grip, but usually come with a strap. Walking sticks made from composite materials or metal typically fold up or telescope, making them convenient to store when not in use. Hiking poles fit into this category and some of them even have spring loaded action in the tip to adjust to different trail conditions. Walking sticks are available in many colors so you can actually coordinate your stick to your gear.

Canes have the advantage of a hand grip. The hand grip can be bare or foam lined, and comes in a variety of diameters. The strongest canes are available in carbon fiber but canes are also made in metal, wood, acrylics and more. The fun starts when you try to pick a pattern. Flames, camouflage, flowers and rhinestones are but a few of the options available to you. Try out a number of styles and pick what suits you best.

In the end, whatever you chose will enhance your quality of life because it will help increase your mobility and confidence