A walking stick or walking cane is a device used primarily to aid walking, provide body posture or support, or aid in maintaining good posture; however, some walking cane designs are used for fashion or self-defense.
The phrase “walking cane” did not exist until the sixteenth century. Walking sticks had been used for centuries, initially as a means of navigating uneven ground and as a defensive weapon, and gradually as a symbol of power, authority, and, finally, social status.
During the transition of the device for fashion purposes, manufacturers began making it with tropical grasses such as bamboo, cane and rattan. This led to the rise of walking cane otherwise, previously known as walking sticks. The names have been used interchangeably since then.
The cane or walking stick, originally a weapon, has become a symbol of masculine strength and power, authority, and social status. The first President of the United States, George Washington (1732-1799), had one, as did Ulysses S. Grant (1822-1885) and Warren G. Harding (1919-1923). (1865–1923).
However, early in the 20th century, walking sticks became more widely available and affordable because to mass manufacture. The modern wooden cane with a bent handle became the norm for most people.
A quality wooden cane was a necessary accessory for the stylish man from the late 17th century to the early 20th century. When people could afford the sleek, firm wood quality and silver or gold handle, it spoke of their riches and status. Animal spinal columns, dried animal skin, and even glass were used to create unique canes in this era.
The sword was the first thing that changed the way walking sticks were used. As a sign of gentility, walking sticks and/or canes slowly took the place of swords, which were often carried by gentlemen.
In fact, every gentleman in London needed a license as early as 1702 in order to be allowed to carry a walking stick. If he didn’t follow certain rules (like how to hold the walking stick, when to lift it, etc.), he would, in a sense, have to give in to the etiquette police! Carrying a cane (a walking stick) under one’s arm, for example, was seen as a very bad example of genteel manners because it went against the social rules for carrying these very popular and trendy accessories.
Types of Walking Sticks
The ‘Fixed Walking Stick’ style is the traditional type of walking stick made from one fixed piece of wood or metal. This type of stick can still come in a height adjustable form when made from metal however wooden fixed sticks or canes are not height adjustable.
Wooden walking sticks can be cut to suit the users height and our Height Assessment Guide below explains how to get the right height stick for you.
‘Folding Walking Sticks’ are exactly as they sound, walking sticks which can be folded. The ability to fold the stick makes these perfect for infrequent users who may need extra support when out and about as they can be stored easily in a bag or car.
Due to the foldability of these sticks they are usually made from lightweight aluminium with elasticated cord connecting the sections together. They tend to be height adjustable as well and are available in a wide range of patterns and designs.
Medical Walking Sticks’ tend to refer to the handle rather than the stick itself. These handles are generally moulded to offer better pressure distribution for long term users. They can come in both folding and non-folding varieties and are usually manufactured from lightweight aluminium for ease of use.
In today’s era, walking canes or sticks have evolved from accessories that show power, wealth, virility and fashion to mere aids for walking or hiking.
Credit: Art Walking Sticks, Classy Walking Canes, Clearwell Mobility
By: King Mawuli
