Nordic Walking Paws , Or  Why I use 2 colors Poles

The Nordic Walking Poles are sold with a pair of rubber Paws

The removable shock absorbing rubber paws fit over the metal tips, for use on hard surfaces such as asphalt and pavements. The paws effectively

 absorbs the poles impact when walking on hard surfaces. It is also recommended that you use the rubber paws on the end of the poles, so there is no danger of damage to the lawn and pathways. A hard bodied paw is not very good for Nordic walking, in which more elastic paws are preferred. You have to keep in mind that the paws gradually wear out, and should be replaced when there is very little surface material left. Replacement paws can be found as spare parts at your local sport shop. I found replacement paws over the internet direct from different stores or makers.

I purchase them several times on the ebay. As I am mainly walking on asphalts and pavement (about 5 times a week 5 kilometers each time). I can tell you from experience that the elastic paws have a very short life of about a month, and then have to be replaced. Lately I purchased rubber paws made by an American maker who also is making  Nordic walking poles without gloves  . Those Paws are a little more stiff but holding on already 3 months.

Now I am coming to the point of different colors Walking Poles use :

I found out that naturally I am walking with poles when they are not parallel to my body. The lower part with the rubber paws attached are more away from my legs than the handles (this helps with the pushing ). This is causing the rubber paws to be worn out unevenly: more in the part close to the legs than the parts pointing away from my body .

This will cause the paws to be worn out much faster on one side  .

Now, if I will replace between the left hand pole and the right hand pole, the paws will each day be worn on a different side . This will equalize the wear and give a longer life to your Walking Poles Paws . How will I know which pole was yesterday in my left hand, and in the right hand ? Of course, by the different colors of the poles.

Another good reason not use  Nordic walking poles with special ( Left and Right ) Gloves !

Two different Colors poles             Worn out Nordic Walking Paw