Think in terms of the right tool for the job. Effective Nordic walking doesn’t happen without the right kind of poles.
Some points for difference to ponder:
| Hiking/trekking poles | Nordic walking poles |
| Use for balance and load distribution | Use for propulsion as well as balance and load distribution |
| Contoured handle for gripping | Slim handle more for control than grip |
| Loop strap to secure pole | Glove to facilitate pushing |
| Metal tip like Nordic walking poles for soft ground but round rubber tip for balance | Metal tip like hiking/trekking poles but with angled rubber boot for pushing off |
| Plant poles perpendicular to ground for balance and load distribution | Plan poles at reverse angle for propulsion |
| More easily fatigued if trying to Nordic walk | Able to use when hiking/trekking |
