*Review of the best according to the editors. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective, not intended as an advertisement and is not a guide to purchase. Specialist consultation required before purchase.
It wasn’t long ago that those around us couldn’t understand why people just walked with poles but no skis, especially when it was in the summer. At first it was perplexing and sometimes even funny. Then, when everyone realized the benefits of such training, many became adherents of Nordic walking. The invention belongs to Finnish skiers, who couldn’t get enough of keeping fit just in winter. Nordic Walking poles were originally designed exclusively for professional athletes. Doctors soon noticed the results and health improvements after them. At the end of the 90s, the first equipment appeared on the market.
This unique method combines running, hiking and skiing. It engages all muscle groups without negatively affecting the cardio system and burns more calories. Finnish walking gives a health-improving effect in many diseases. It improves coordination, blood circulation and heart function, increases endurance, normalizes blood pressure, relieves stress and depression, reduces back pain. And that’s not all. Doctors around the world advise looking into this method, which is suitable for all ages, including childhood and retirement.
And now let’s see what companies are the best on the market, and whose training poles are better to buy. In the rating we have selected 10 most popular manufacturers, who guarantee the quality, durability, and most importantly – the effectiveness of their products.
Rating of the best Nordic Walking poles
| Rated | place | manufacturer | rating |
| Rating of the best Nordic Walking poles | 1 | Exel | 5.0 |
| 2 | Leki | 4.9 | |
| 3 | Fizan | 4.8 | |
| 4 | KV+ | 4.7 | |
| 5 | Black Diamond | 4.6 | |
| 6 | US MEDICA | 4.5 | |
| 7 | KAISER SPORT | 4.4 | |
| 8 | CDM Sport | 4.3 | |
| 9 | ADEX | 4.2 | |
| 10 | STC | 4.1 |
Exel
Rating: 5.0
The leading position is held by the company from Finland, which produces sports equipment of premium quality. Professional equipment is developed with the participation of world-famous athletes and doctors. It takes into account the years of experience of all the Finnish companies that know everything about this type of recovery. Nordic poles are made of carbon fiber with the addition of a composite. This combination of materials makes them super strong and lightweight, allowing the elderly and people with limited physical abilities to train with the same efficiency as the professionals.
All materials are durable, including the tips. Handles made of natural cork are comfortable in any weather, make grip secure and exclude sweat increase. The binding straps are safe for your hands, soft and durable. All models are equipped with interchangeable rubber shoes and metal tips. This allows the poles to be used at any time of the year without additional expense.
Modern design makes the equipment stand out not only among the vegetation, but also among other outdoor enthusiasts. Prices of professional products are not available to everyone. But those who have the opportunity to buy Exel poles never regret the expensive purchase.
Leki
Rating: 4.9
Silver rating – the company from Germany, which is engaged in the development and sale of sports equipment for beginners and professionals. His story began immediately after the Second World War. Company founder Karl Lenhart was an enthusiastic and experimentalist. He tried to improve the equipment, changing the technology of production and materials used. Until today the company is the only manufacturer in the world to carry out the hardening of the toughest kind of aluminum – Al 7075.
The brand has patented many innovations that are actively used by other sports groups today. Injury hazard from product use is minimized, because great attention is paid to even minor design details when creating each model. The high quality standard of Leki equipment confirms the use of national teams in international competitions.
The lines feature models for women and men of various ages and fitness levels. Designs are varied, as well as the price range, so everyone will choose walking poles according to their preferences and financial capabilities.
Fizan
Rating: 4.8
The third place of the rating goes to the Italian company, which has been producing aluminum ski poles since 1947. The company pioneered the design, not the usual bamboo or steel, which were not durable and quickly fell into disrepair. Aluminum was a lightweight material that allowed you to quickly pick up the speed you needed, and more importantly, it was a durable and reliable material. Today Fizan is the world leader in Nordic Walking and Trekking poles.
The range includes poles for amateurs and professional athletes. The main advantages of the company’s products are ergonomics, durability, comfortable handle, light weight, and stylish design. The binding is made of durable but soft and breathable fabric. The markings are laser-applied and the top is coated with a particularly strong protective layer, so that the appearance remains unchanged even with intensive and prolonged use.
The brand pays attention to care about the environment. All materials used are safe, no toxic raw materials are used. The company produces a lot of models in different price categories. That’s why even a beginner can afford Nordic ski poles of the highest quality from this company.
KV+
Rating: 4.7
On the fourth line of the rating is a company from Switzerland. Well-known athletes and amateurs have long ago chosen KV+ equipment, which is used not only for training, but also for world-class competitions. The company was not founded long ago, but thanks to its high quality it has become one of the best manufacturers of Nordic Walking poles. Brand motto: “Affordability and Innovation. That’s why even the most advanced design can be afforded by people of all income levels.
Regardless of the model, the poles are light and sturdy. Once folded, their compact dimensions make them easy to store and transport. Handles are made with cork, straps are made of nylon fabric. All materials are absolutely safe for human health and the environment. The product range includes telescopic and straight poles, for beginner and professional level, for men and women.
According to reviews the company produces one of the highest quality walking gear. The designs avoid stress on the arms, but distribute it better to muscles and joints. Pensioners and children can easily use the poles and get high results from training.
Black Diamond
Rating: 4.6
Fifth place in the rating deservedly takes an American company, which is widely known among hikers, climbers, rock climbers, skiers. It began operations in 1957, and over time has been able to accumulate enough experience to develop equipment that meets a high standard of quality. A wide range of models offers Nordic ski poles for advanced athletes and beginners.
Safety comes first, so the designs are not only developed with input from medical specialists, but also tested on volunteers. Every detail is taken care of. Materials are selected in accordance with hygienic and safety requirements. People even with lower fitness levels can hike with Black Diamond poles with no risk to their health.
Buyers highly appreciated both telescopic and fixed models. All are equipped with anatomical handles, durable straps, wear-resistant tips, have a stylish design. The appearance does not change over time. Color brilliance is not reduced, the surface is not scratched.
US MEDICA
Rating: 4.5
The American company, founded in 1987, – at number six in the ranking. It specializes in massage equipment and other types of wellness products that significantly improve the body. Years of research have created unique technologies and innovative designs that improve the quality of life even with very serious problems. Nordic ski poles US MEDICA designed for people with different levels of training: both for advanced athletes and inexperienced beginners.
The main difference from many other companies – is the quality study of each, even the smallest detail. Comfort leashes reduce hand strain and are resistant to abrasion. Removable rubber pads allow for non-stop training in all weathers and on all kinds of terrain. They are specifically designed for asphalt, sand, snow, rough terrain. The appearance is always attractive, thanks to the application of a particularly tough protective layer.
Experts recommend the Finnish poles of this brand. Despite the rather high prices, they are fully justified. In the development are involved doctors of various specialties, so in addition to the results is guaranteed 100% safety.
KAISER SPORT
Rating: 4.4
On the seventh line of the rating is a German firm that produces high-quality and reliable sports equipment. In 20 years of existence it managed to rise to the same level as the oldest brands and does not leave these positions for a minute. By continuously implementing new technologies and using innovative raw materials, KAISER SPORT has made a name for itself in many countries. Russian athletes and lovers of outdoor activities were first introduced to the goods 7 years ago and today without a doubt choose this brand.
Nordic ski poles and other equipment are made from good quality materials, which confirms their high performance. Despite this, the prices are quite affordable, so they can afford even people with a low income. Designs are varied. Vivid colors for eye-catching visibility and aesthetic appeal, and lighter colors for a more discreet look.
According to reviews the products are particularly durable, ergonomic handles, strong hinges. Non-scratch surface, no rubbing off of markings over time. Although the models are not numerous, as the brand specializes more in travel gear, there is a lot to choose from. Finnish poles this company advises beginners who are just getting started in this type of training.
CDM Sport
Rating: 4.3
Eighth place ranking firm that produces hiking and sports equipment for semi-professionals and amateurs. Cheap Finnish aluminum poles are suitable for beginners. Carbon products are lighter and more flexible, designed for experienced athletes. Their price is higher than the aluminum poles. All products are made according to international quality standards. Materials are safe and do not negatively impact the environment.
The products of this brand have many other advantages. Scandinavian poles are lightweight: Aluminum – 480g, carbon – 400g. They are not only easy to train, even for those unaccustomed to physical exertion, but also convenient to transport. The telescopic system makes it possible to fold the poles and then store them compactly in a special case.
Low injury risk is another advantage. Handles are made of material containing natural cork. It increases the grip of palms with the surface and excludes slipping even when wet. Rubber tips increase stability while walking. According to the reviews, CDM Sport products are an example of the perfect combination of price and quality.
ADEX
Rating: 4.2
The Russian company that produces reliable and high-quality Nordic Walking poles closes our ranking. STC is number 10. All models are highly durable, lightweight, have optimal stiffness and excellent balance. They are suitable for professional athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, hikers. The high performance characteristics of the poles can be used in any season and on different surfaces.
Not only efficiency, but also comfort. Perforated textile material ensures air circulation, prevents sweat and slip. Ergonomic handles are contoured to fit the hand and significantly reduce strain during intensive workouts. One of their greatest advantages is that they can be used by those of taller stature. Not all competing companies make these models.
Buyers noted that the walking sticks really meet the declared characteristics. Among the many options you can choose the appropriate fitness level and age, as well as any design from bright trendy colors to the concise muted tones.
