There is a whole host of equipment you can buy to support you on your Nordic Walk, but what should you buy? Gary takes a look at Nordic Walking essentials and provides his recommendations.
Nordic Walking poles
I personally use the Decathlon Newfeel P500 and P700 poles and recommend them to all my clients. Both models offer excellent quality at a fraction of the cost of other carbon Nordic walking pole brands – and I've tested a lot of them.
P500 Nordic Walking Poles – £34.99
- Composition : 50% carbon / 50% resin
- Handle : Rubber (easy to disinfect)
- Straps : A little too loose for my liking
- Fix : Order a set of Decathlon straps (£9.99) for a better fit
- Total Cost for a perfect setup : £44.98 - https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/carbon-nw-p500-nordic-walking-poles-blue/_/R-p-168950
P700 Nordic Walking Poles – £59.99
- Composition: 70% carbon / 30% resin
- Handle: Cork (more comfortable, but wears over time)
- Total cost for a perfect setup: £59.99 - https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/nw-p700-carbon-nordic-walking-poles-turquoise/_/R-p-168953
Gaz Tip: While cork handles offer more comfort, rubber is easier to disinfect – useful if you're leading group walks.
These poles are great value, durable, and perform just as well as more expensive brands. If you're looking to upgrade or kit out your clients affordably, the P500 or P700 with a few smart accessories are the way to go.
Accessories I Love
Newfeel Paws (Feet)
- Wider than other brands
- Great grip and durability
- Just £3.99 a pair - https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/rubber-tips-for-nordicwalking-poles-black/_/R-p-184552
Carry Bag:
- Folds down small
- Perfect for stashing poles in your daypack when you stop at a café
- Only £8.99 at Decathalon: https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/bag-to-store-nordic-walking-poles-blue/_/R-p-304978
Instructor Essentials
Always carry:
- Spare poles in your vehicle
- Large & medium strap sets
- Extra paws
- Outdoor first aid kit
- Emergency shelter
- Survival bags
- Bottles of water
- Waterproof jacket
- Sunscreen
- Mobile phone
- What2Words app
- OS Maps app
- Route risk assessment
- 20L day sack
This keeps you and your clients walking safely.