Where can I buy nordic walking poles and which ones should I buy, are questions I'm often asked.  So here are some tips based on personal experience.

Which brand?

Exel, Leki, Kompardell and Gabel are the brands I use or have had recommended to me - you'll find links to their sites on my nordic walking links page.  They're all companies with an excellent reputation for poles for nordic walking, trekking and ski-ing.  

In my classes and personally, I use Exel fixed length poles which are light, well designed and durable - they come with a lifetime guarantee on the pole shaft.   Whilst I initially chose Exel because I could buy a good value, business set, I'm still very happy with this purchase.

I also use Leki Aluminium Traveller poles.  These are 3 piece poles that adjust from 80-130 cm so they fit into a suitcase or backpack for travelling.  Like any adjustabe pole, providing you screw them tightly in place, they don't slide down but you may notice a little vibration.  Some of my clients have Leki 2 piece poles that adjust from 100-130 cm and are very satisfied with them.

The bargain basement poles that you can sometimes find for £10-20.00 are best avoided.  I've tried them; they don't enhance your walking experience, they feel tinny and uncomfortable.  The poor strap design usually makes it difficult to push back and exercise your triceps effectively. 

Kompardell and Gabel I haven't used but they have an excellent pedigree and have been recommended by other instructors.

Which model?

Model names change but the Exel Trainer and Leki Nordic Supreme, Leki Nordic Traveller are the most commonly found poles at present  These are what I or my clients use.  Leki poles feature a quick release strap which is useful once you get used to it.

Nordic walking or trekking poles?

If you're buying online, make sure that you're buying nordic walking poles not trekking poles.  Leki in particular sells a range of walking poles in the UK, most of which are the trekking pole type.   This means that the grip and strap are designed differently, and they tend to be slightly heavier.

Where to buy?

Have a look at the list of suppliers on my nordic walking links page, they all currently offer nordic walking poles.  Some have retail outlets but I recommend you call them before visiting to check that they have what you want in stock.

How much will they cost?

Prices on the web change all the time both on poles and delivery charges.  As of the date of this posting I found Exel Trainer poles from £66.50 at Apex Sports to £78.47 at Newitts, both including free delivery.  If you don't mind buying from a continental retailer, German Sports Thieme has a range of Exel and Leki poles, including the Nordic Walker Active at £32.00 and Exel Stride Comfit at £40.99 + £9.99 post and packing. 

CNDo Scotland are offering the Leki Nordic Supreme at £55.00 including free delivery whilst Penrose Outdoor is charging £52.99 plus post and packing.  The Leki Aluminium Traveller poles are available from the Leki shop for £65.00 plus post and packing.  It's the old story, spend a little time shopping round and you'll save money.

If you think poles are expensive, just remember that you'll get years of happy walking out of them and they're cheap compared to the cost of most gym memberships.