Caring for and storing Nordic walking poles: the complete guide
The grip is the part of the pole that comes into the most contact with your body during a Nordic walking session. It transmits the pushing force from the pole to your hand and is exposed to sweat, the elements and repeated friction. Yet it is often the least well-maintained part of the pole. Here’s how to look after it properly.
Understanding the role of the wrist strap
Contrary to what one might think, a Nordic walker does not hold their pole in the same way a hiker holds a walking stick. In Nordic walking, you regularly release the grip to allow the rear arm to swing. It is the wrist strap — the strap that wraps around the wrist and the back of the hand — that takes over the pole and enables the push. Without a well-fitting wrist strap, the technique becomes impossible and the strain is transferred to the wrist.
Wrist straps can be fixed (integrated into the handle) or removable (detachable in a few seconds to access supplies or take a photo). Removable models are now highly popular for their practicality, particularly over long distances.
Clean your gauntlets after every ride
Sweat, mud, trail dust and skin oils accumulate in the fibres of the gauntlet with every use. Without regular cleaning, the materials deteriorate, odours set in and the fastening systems become clogged.
For routine cleaning:
- Detach the gloves from the handle if your model allows it
- Rinse them in clean, slightly soapy water (mild soap, no harsh chemicals)
- Gently rub the areas that come into contact with the skin
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue
- Leave to air dry, away from direct sunlight and any heat sources (radiators, tumble dryers)
Neoprene or technical foam gloves are not suitable for machine washing. Textile models can be machine-washed at 30°C, but check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Maintaining fastening systems
Fastening systems — buckles, Velcro, clip fasteners — require special attention. Over time, Velcro fastenings become clogged with hair, grass and various debris. Cleaning them with a dry toothbrush is an effective way to remove this build-up. Clip fastenings must be checked regularly: a clip that no longer ‘clicks’ properly can cause the pole to come loose unexpectedly during a push.
Adjusting your wrist strap: a fundamental step
An incorrectly adjusted wrist strap is a source of injury. If it is too tight, it restricts blood flow in the wrist and causes tingling. If it is too loose, it allows the pole to dangle and forces the hand to compensate by gripping the handle too tightly, causing tension and tendonitis.
The correct fit: the hand must be able to open fully during the full backward stroke, with the pole held solely by the wrist guard, without the fingers tensing. Check this fit every time you change gloves (winter gloves in winter, bare hands in summer).
Storage: extending the life of your pole gloves
Storage is often overlooked. However, a few simple rules can double the life of your pole gloves:
- Never store damp gloves in a cover or closed bag — mould will quickly set in
- Store your poles in the open air, either suspended or laid flat, never bent forcefully
- Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun : UV rays degrade elastomers and technical foams
- In winter, if you have been walking in damp weather, unfold the gauntlets completely before drying
When should you replace your gauntlets?
Wrist straps are consumables. Depending on how often you use them, they should be replaced every 12 to 36 months. Signs that it is time to replace them: the foam no longer regains its shape after compression, the Velcro fastenings no longer hold, the seams are fraying, or the wrist strap is causing you pain despite being properly adjusted.
MØNARC® Walking Poles come with Gabel (a leading Italian manufacturer) wrist straps, available in sizes S, M and L. Replacement wrist straps are available directly from our shop.