Canes

Durable Walking Canes That Last: What to Look For

The features that separate a cane that lasts for years from one that wears out fast.

Short answer: a durable cane has a weight rating comfortably above your body weight, a solid hardwood or carbon fiber shaft, a well-attached handle, and a replaceable rubber tip. Take care of it and it can last for years.

1. Check the weight capacity

Every cane has a maximum weight rating, listed on each of our product pages. Many standard canes are rated around 220 to 250 lbs. A cane used near its limit every day wears out faster, so choose one rated well above your weight. Our Heavy-Duty Canes are all rated 250 lbs and up, and the Hercules Derby Handle Cane is rated to 500 lbs.

2. Choose a strong shaft material

• Solid hardwood: classic and very strong when thick enough. The Hercules canes use a 1 1/8 inch hardwood shaft imported from Germany.
• Carbon fiber: light and strong. The Carbon Fiber Triple Wound Cane weighs about a pound and supports up to 300 lbs.
• Aluminum: light and adjustable. Look for a solid locking mechanism and check it regularly.

Compare materials in Wood vs. Aluminum vs. Carbon Fiber Canes.

3. Look at the handle and hardware

The joint between the handle and shaft takes the most stress. Solid wood, brass and well-fitted handles hold up better over time than thin plastic. On adjustable and folding canes, the locks and joints should click firmly into place with no wobble.

4. Plan on replacing the tip

The rubber tip is a wear part. Replace it when the tread is worn smooth or the rubber cracks, and the rest of the cane will last much longer. We stock replacement tips for most cane sizes, and it takes about two minutes: How to Replace a Cane Tip.

5. Take care of it

• Wipe it down with a damp cloth and dry it, especially after rain or snow.
• Store it upright or hanging, away from heat.
• Check for cracks, loose handles and wobbly locks every few months.

More in How to Care for Your Cane So It Lasts for Years and Signs It's Time to Replace Your Walking Cane.

Our most durable canes

• Hercules Derby Handle Cane, Black, Scorched and Walnut: rated 400 to 500 lbs, 44 inches long
• Carbon Fiber Triple Wound Cane: rated to 300 lbs, about 1 lb
• TriggerTech Easy Adjust Cane: adjustable, rated to 300 lbs
• Extra Long Crook Handle Cane: 40 inches, rated to 250 lbs

All items are covered for 6 months from delivery against manufacturer defects.