Most walking and trekking poles I've seen have straps. Why don't the Exerstrider poles have straps?

Most walking and trekking pole grips were originally designed for use as ski pole grips. While many of these grip/strapping system designs work great for skiing, they are not well suited to year round walking with poles. It seems all the makers of these complicated grip designs call them "ergonomic". In doing so, they've made ergonomic a rather worthless term. The definition of ergonomics is "the science of designing things for efficient use by people; design aimed at reducing user fatigue, discomfort and unjury."

My strapless grips are truly ergonomic and allow the user to comfortably apply force to the poles without the need to maintain a tight, fatiguing hold on the grip. The large flared surfaces on the top and bottom of the ERGO/SC (ergonomic strapless comfort) grip allow a lightly clasped hand to both maintain control of the grip at all times and apply maximum force without the need for an uncomfortable, inconvenient, complicated strapping system. The "orthotic" arch on the back of my grip effortlessly keeps the wrist in a safe, comfortable "neutral position" no matter how much force you apply.

Straps (especially those perplexing strapping systems with Velcro fasteners) can be hot and uncomfortable in warm weather, and clumsy to get in and out of while wearing gloves or mittens in winter. They can also restrict circulation and can cause chafing. Also, in the (unlikely) event of a fall, it is also much more likely that one might sustain a hand, wrist or arm injury if strapped into a pair of poles. While most walking pole grips are actually just recycled ski pole grips, the ERGO/SC grip was designed specifically with the aim of making the grip feel comfortable, natural and supportive as you apply a strong downward force to the poles. Our grip design will make you feel like the Exerstrider poles are a part of you.

Whle Nordic walking is a very safe activity, in the event of a fall the most frequent injuries associated with Nordic walking are to the wrist and thumb as a result of being attached by straps.  For this reason it is highly recommended that persons with balance issues and senior exercisers avoid poles with straps.  

back to FAQ