What really makes Nordic walking poles different?

The Nordic walking glove and handle make Nordic walking poles distinct and give Nordic walking its ability to multiply the benefits of regular walking. Most straps are just for looping around one's wrist, but the Nordic walking glove has an purpose. You use it to help you push off with the poles rather than just keep from losing them.

A testimonial about Nordic walking

I had never heard of bilateral perilymph fistulas (PLFs) and endolymphatic hydrops until I read this piece. That person walked a marathon at 13 minutes, 22 seconds per mile. Nordic walking gives us permission to be ambitious!

Why can’t I use hiking/trekking poles for Nordic walking?

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