Choosing Shoes

With so many special purpose shoes around, it comes as no surprise that there are shoes for Nordic walking. ASICS offers waterproof Nordic walking shoes for men and women. Several manufacturers make multipurpose trail shoes promoted for Nordic walking as well as trail walking and general outdoor fitness activities. If you expect to do a lot of Nordic walking on trails, consider these special shoes for stability and comfort. If you are going to do your Nordic walking on streets or urban paths, you can use the same shsoes you use for fitness walking. If you don't have walking shoes you like, consider buying running shoes. They are better ventilated than most walking shoes so your feet won't get too warm when you are Nordic walking.

Choosing Gear

For Nordic walking, wear comfortable shoes and comfortable clothing, appropriate for the weather. (See tip on choosing shoes.) Remember you will warm up after you get started, so dress in layers in cold weather so you can take off your jacket or sweat shirt if necessary. If you are going to travel with your Nordic walking poles, you will want an adjustable model. Decide if you want adjustable poles or solid poles. Non-adjustable poles, or the adjustable pole when adjusted, should be of a length that your arm will be bent 90 degrees when the tip is planted next to your heel. Read the manufacturer's description and see what pole seems right for you. Solid poles are sold according to your height. You should get a guarantee. Don't choose just on price. Poles are inexpensive and durable, and will give you great rewards in fitness, well being, and fun.

Nordic Walking Poles

You can use your cross-country skiing poles for Nordic walking, but you're much better off with specialized Nordic walking poles. After all, the poles are the only equipment you need for this activity, so you might as well have the right ones. Cross-country ski poles are designed for snow, with baskets and hand straps to aid control. If, by chance, you decide to go Nordic walking on a snowy trail, they could work, but they're not much good on asphalt. Nordic walking poles usually have a rubber tip for walking on streets, tracks, or dirt trails. Some may have metal tips for use on hilly hikes, or you can use trekking poles for that. Don't use poles without the rubber tip unless they have the special metal tip. Check with the manufacturer to be sure. You can choose adjustable or non-adjustable poles for Nordic walking. These poles are more springy and less stiff than skiing or trekking poles. One of their advantages is you can go right out your door and use them for Nordic walking, without traveling to the mountains.