What are the best trekking poles for Nordic walking in the UK?

Nordic walking is a specific fitness activity that uses specially designed poles to engage the upper body, increase calorie burn, and reduce joint impact. Unlike regular trekking poles, Nordic walking poles have angled grips, fixed lengths (or limited adjustment), and quick‑release straps. In the UK, where the activity is popular in parks, green spaces, and gentle trails, choosing the right poles is essential for proper technique and injury prevention. This article reviews the best Nordic walking poles available in the UK, explains what features to look for, and why you should avoid using standard trekking poles for this activity.

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What makes Nordic walking poles different?

• Angled grips (typically 5‑15°) – Allow a natural wrist position and a powerful backward push.
• Fixed length (or a narrow adjustment range) – Correct length is critical for technique; telescoping poles are not ideal.
• Quick‑release, non‑slip straps – Usually a cork or neoprene loop that attaches to a special glove or hand strap. You release the pole at the end of the push without letting go of the strap.
• Carbide or ceramic tip with removable rubber “paws” – For grip on pavement or dirt.
• Lightweight but stiff shafts – Often carbon or aluminium/carbon composite.

Regular trekking poles have straight grips, are adjustable, and use standard padded straps – they are not suitable for true Nordic walking technique.

Top picks for the UK

1. Exel Nordic Walker – the gold standard

Exel is a Finnish brand that pioneered Nordic walking poles. The Exel Nordic Walker (various models, e.g., Classic, Pro) is widely recommended by instructors.

• Shaft: Carbon or aluminium/carbon composite – lightweight (approx. 160‑200g per pole).
• Grip: Angled cork or bi‑material – comfortable, absorbs sweat.
• Strap: Quick‑release glove system or neoprene loop.
• Tip: Carbide with removable rubber paws.
• Length: Fixed – choose based on your height: height (cm) × 0.68 (e.g., 170 cm → 115 cm). Some models have a small adjustment range (e.g., Exel Adjustable), but fixed is preferred for technique.
• Price: £50‑100 depending on model and materials.

Why it’s best for the UK: Widely available online (Amazon UK, Nordic Walking UK, Sportsshoes.com). Durable for mixed terrain (parks, gravel paths, light trails). The cork grip performs well in UK’s damp weather.

2. Leki Nordix – premium comfort

Leki, known for trekking poles, also makes dedicated Nordic walking poles under the Nordix series (e.g., Nordix Speed, Nordix Power).

• Shaft: Aluminium or carbon – Leki’s SpeedLock technology (but fixed length versions exist).
• Grip: Angled cork or foam (Aergon Air). Leki’s Trigger Shark quick‑release system is excellent – the glove attaches magnetically and releases with a squeeze.
• Tip: Carbide, replaceable, with rubber paws.
• Price: £60‑120.

Why it’s great: The Trigger Shark system is unmatched for convenience. The cork grip is superb in wet conditions. Leki’s build quality ensures longevity.

3. Pacerpole – ergonomic innovation

Pacerpole (UK‑based company) makes a unique design with angled, hand‑shaped grips that promote a natural, relaxed wrist position. They are popular with people recovering from shoulder or wrist injuries.

• Shaft: Carbon or aluminium.
• Grip: Angled, non‑adjustable, very ergonomic.
• Strap: Simple loop – works with any glove.
• Price: £80‑120.

Why choose Pacerpole: If you have joint issues or want the most anatomically correct design, Pacerpoles are excellent. They are designed in the UK and well‑supported.

4. Decathlon Nordik Walk – budget option

Decathlon’s Nordik Walk poles (e.g., Nordik Walk 100 or 500) are affordable and decent for beginners.

• Shaft: Aluminium or fibreglass composite.
• Grip: Angled foam – comfortable enough for short walks.
• Strap: Basic quick‑release loop.
• Price: £25‑40 per pair.

Trade‑off: Heavier and less durable than Exel or Leki, but fine for occasional use on flat, smooth surfaces. Avoid for rugged terrain.

How to choose the correct length

Nordic walking poles should be longer than trekking poles. The standard formula: Your height (cm) × 0.68 gives the pole length in cm. For example:

• 150 cm tall → 102 cm
• 160 cm → 109 cm
• 170 cm → 115 cm
• 180 cm → 122 cm
• 190 cm → 129 cm

Most brands offer poles in 5 cm increments. If you are between sizes, choose the longer option. Never use adjustable trekking poles for Nordic walking – you will be tempted to adjust them incorrectly, ruining your technique.

Where to Nordic walk in the UK

Nordic walking is popular in:

• Royal Parks (Hyde Park, Richmond Park)
• National Trust properties (with gentle trails)
• Canal towpaths (e.g., Grand Union Canal)
• Seafront promenades (Brighton, Bournemouth)
• Forestry Commission trails (e.g., Forest of Dean, Sherwood Pines)

Many local councils and walking groups offer Nordic walking classes – a great way to learn correct technique.

Final verdict

For Nordic walking in the UK, the best poles are the Exel Nordic Walker (value/performance) and the Leki Nordix (with Trigger Shark for convenience). Pacerpole suits those with specific ergonomic needs. Avoid using standard trekking poles; their straight grips and adjustable lengths will hinder proper form. Invest in a dedicated pair, get the length right, and enjoy a full‑body workout on Britain’s paths and parks.