Walking Stick Length Calculator

Method of Measurement	Description	Recommended Stick Length
Elbow Bend	Hold the stick by your side and ensure a slight bend in your elbow.	Stick length should match this relaxed position.
Wrist Crease	Stand upright with shoes on. Align the top of the stick with the crease of your wrist.	Stick top should match the wrist crease.
Waist Height	Hold the stick upright beside you. The top should reach around your waist level.	Stick length corresponds to your waist height.
Forearm Method	Hold the stick with your arm bent at a 90-degree angle, parallel to the ground.	Stick length should match your forearm’s length.
Underarm Method	Stand up straight and let the stick touch the ground. The top of the stick should reach just under your armpit.	Stick length corresponds to underarm height.
Hip Method	Stand up straight with the stick beside you. The top should reach the top of your hip bone.	Stick length corresponds to hip height.
68% of Height Method	Calculate 68% of your height and use that as the stick length.	Stick length is approximately 68% of your height.
Shoulder to Ground	Hold the stick upright next to you. The top should align with the bottom of your shoulder.	Stick length corresponds to shoulder height.
Height without Shoes	Measure your height without shoes and use that measurement for the stick length.	Stick length matches your barefoot height.
Palm Grip	Hold the stick’s handle with your arm down. The stick should rest in your palm.	Stick length allows comfortable palm grip.
Fingertip Method	Hold the stick upside down. The stick’s top should rest at your fingertips.	Stick length corresponds to fingertip height.

FAQs

How long should walking sticks be? Walking sticks are typically recommended to be around waist height, or a length that allows your elbow to be slightly bent when holding the stick with your arm down by your side.

What height walking stick should I get? A walking stick’s height should generally be around your waist level or adjusted to allow a slight bend in your elbow when holding it by your side.

How do you size walking sticks? To size a walking stick, stand up straight with your arms relaxed at your sides. Measure from the ground to your wrist crease. This measurement is a good starting point for the stick’s length.

How many walking sticks do I need? Most people use one walking stick for support, but some individuals may prefer using two for added stability and balance.

How long should a wooden walking stick be? A wooden walking stick should typically reach your waist level or allow a slight bend in your elbow when holding it by your side.

How do you determine the correct length for a cane? To determine the correct length for a cane, stand up straight with your shoes on and your arms relaxed by your sides. The top of the cane should align with the crease of your wrist.

Can you walk further with walking stick? A walking stick can help distribute your weight and provide extra stability, which might help you walk further and with more comfort.

Are 2 walking sticks better than 1? Using two walking sticks (also known as trekking poles) can provide better balance and stability, especially on uneven terrain.

What size cane should I use for my height? For proper cane sizing, the top of the cane should reach the crease of your wrist when you stand with your shoes on.

What is a standard walking stick? A standard walking stick is a single stick that provides support and stability while walking.

Is a walking stick better than a cane? The choice between a walking stick and a cane depends on individual preferences and needs. Both can provide support, but walking sticks (trekking poles) might offer additional benefits for certain activities.

Do you use a walking stick on your good or bad side? A walking stick is typically used on the opposite side of your weaker or injured leg for better balance and support.

What is the correct way to use a walking stick? Hold the walking stick on the side opposite your weaker leg. Place the stick forward as you step with your weaker leg for support.

Why do people use two walking sticks? Using two walking sticks (trekking poles) can provide enhanced stability and balance, particularly during activities like hiking.

How do seniors choose walking poles? Seniors should choose walking poles that are adjustable in length, comfortable to grip, and provide the right amount of support for their needs.

Are walking sticks good for seniors? Yes, walking sticks can be beneficial for seniors as they provide stability and support, reducing the risk of falls.

What is the best wood for a walking stick? Woods like hickory, ash, oak, or maple are often used for walking sticks due to their strength and durability.

What is the hardest wood for a walking stick? Hickory is known for being one of the hardest and strongest woods, making it a popular choice for walking sticks.

Is Pine a good wood for a walking stick? Pine is softer than hardwoods and may not be as durable for heavy use as other woods like hickory or oak.

How long should a cane be for a 5’6″ woman? For a 5’6″ woman, the top of the cane should align with the crease of her wrist when standing in shoes.

What kind of cane is best for balance? Canes with a broader base, such as quad canes or offset canes, are often better for providing balance support.

How long should a cane be for a 5-foot person? For a 5-foot person, the cane should be sized so the top of the cane reaches the crease of their wrist when standing.

What are the disadvantages of using a walking stick? Disadvantages of using a walking stick can include dependency, limited use of one hand, and potentially needing time to adapt to using it.

Do walking sticks help your knees? Walking sticks can help alleviate some pressure on the knees by distributing weight and providing balance support.

What is the difference between a walking stick and walking cane? Walking sticks are often seen as more casual or outdoor-oriented, while walking canes might have a more formal appearance.

Do you hold a walking stick correctly? Hold a walking stick so that the grip is at wrist height and the tip of the stick is positioned slightly in front of you.

Which leg should I use my walking stick? Use the walking stick on the side opposite your weaker leg, as it provides better support and balance.

What is walking with 2 sticks called? Walking with two sticks is commonly referred to as “using trekking poles.”

How tall should a cane be for a 5’7″ woman? For a 5’7″ woman, the cane’s height should be adjusted so the top of the cane reaches the crease of her wrist when standing.

How tall should a cane be for a 5-foot woman? A cane for a 5-foot woman should be sized to have the top of the cane align with the crease of her wrist when standing.

Should a cane be at waist level? A cane should generally be at wrist level, not waist level, when you’re standing with your arm down by your side.

What is the most stable walking stick? Walking sticks with a broader base, such as quad canes or tripod-based canes, tend to offer more stability.

Does a cane go on the weaker or stronger side? A cane should be used on the side opposite your weaker leg to provide better support and balance.

What is the easiest cane to use? Offset canes are often considered easier to use for many individuals due to their ergonomic design.

Which foot goes first when using a cane? When using a cane, the cane and your weaker leg should move together, followed by your stronger leg.

Will walking with a cane help with lower back pain? Walking with a cane can provide support and better posture, which might alleviate some lower back pain.

Why do you use a cane on the opposite side of the injury? Using a cane on the opposite side of an injury provides better stability and balance, reducing the load on the injured side.

Do walking sticks help arthritis? Yes, walking sticks can help reduce the strain on joints and provide support, making them useful for individuals with arthritis.

Why do old people need walking sticks? Older people may use walking sticks to improve stability, maintain balance, and reduce the risk of falls.

Is it OK to walk with one walking pole? Yes, it’s okay to walk with one walking pole if it provides the support and balance you need.

Why do hikers carry walking sticks? Hikers carry walking sticks (trekking poles) to provide stability, reduce strain on joints, and improve balance while hiking.

How far should a senior walk? The distance a senior can walk depends on individual fitness levels, health conditions, and comfort. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.

What is the difference between a walking pole and a walking stick? The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but “walking pole” often refers to adjustable trekking poles used in hiking.

What is the most stable walking cane for seniors? Canes with wider bases, such as quad canes or offset canes, are often considered more stable for seniors.

When should I stop using a walking stick? You can stop using a walking stick when you feel confident in your stability and balance without it. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.

What is the name of the walking stick for the elderly? Walking sticks for the elderly are commonly referred to as canes or walking canes.

What is the safest cane for elderly? Canes with a broad base, such as quad canes, provide more stability and are often considered safer for the elderly.

What size walking stick should I get? The size of a walking stick should allow a slight bend in your elbow when holding it by your side.

What is the best size walking stick? The best size for a walking stick is one that provides proper support, stability, and comfort for your individual needs.

How many inches should a walking stick be? The length of a walking stick should generally be around waist height or allow a slight bend in your elbow when holding it by your side.