Chapter 5: Classic Models

When we think of a walking stick or cane, most of us instantly envision the crook-neck or tourist’s model also called a shepherd’s staff or a pilgrim’s staff. This model has a simple, curved neck and is carried with a hand wrapped around the highest point of the curve. It is the shape from which the popular peppermint “candy cane” inherited its form. The shepherd’s staff is a convenient model not only during use, but it is also one of the more easily stored models. When not in use, this model can be hung from a hook, coat rack or chair simply by draping it from the hooked neck.

However, the crook-neck cane or walking stick is neither the only option, nor necessarily the best, depending on the user. For use as a walking aid among those who are physically limited, many prefer a Derby or Fritz model instead. These popular models are similar to the crook-neck models except that the handle is flatter and is held more parallel to the floor, perpendicular to the length of the stick itself. For those who have difficulty holding the curvature of a crook-neck model, these styles offer an alternative that may provide more stability when walking. Both the Derby and Fritz models feature a gentle curve for placement of the palm, and another curve that projects upward from the closed thumb and forefinger. This feature can prevent slipping of the hand when the stick is in use. While the two types are very similar to each other, the Derby models offer slightly more downward curvature at the opposite end.

Still other classic models of walking stick feature ball-handles of varying sizes. Often less top-heavy than counterparts with larger handles, the ball-handle varieties are gripped as one would grip any other small ball, by wrapping all five fingers and the thumb around the ball itself. These models are often adorned with decorative features on the very top of the ball.

The handle of the walking stick is not the only feature that can vary considerably. The shaft itself can be straight, crooked or “spiral carved.” Spiral carved models are elegantly carved in a spiral pattern that can stop before the handle or extend all the way through the length of the handle itself. These are frequently made of wood and the carving permits color variations in the wood to show through as different layers are exposed.

Another interesting classic form of walking stick is the so-called “tobacco stick”. These models descend from long, straight sticks traditionally used in the southern states to hang tobacco for drying and curing. Tobacco canes today can be purchased in the many types of wood indigenous to these regions.

As with many wardrobe accessories, walking sticks are available in both male and female models. While generally similar in design, the female models are frequently shorter; they can also be thinner and more lightweight. Additionally, differences in colors and styles may be offered in which female models bear more traditionally feminine features.