Types of Cane Handles

The handle decides how comfortable a cane feels and how it looks. Here is how each style we sell compares, what it is best for, and where to shop it.

Quick comparison

Handle	Best for	Shop
Derby	Everyday use, secure grip, classic style	Derby handle canes
Fritz	Arthritis, weak grip, spreading pressure	Fritz handle canes
Crook	Occasional use, hooking over an arm	Crook handle canes
Offset	Stability, weight straight over the shaft	Offset handle canes
Palm grip	Sore hands, all-day comfort	Palm grip canes
Ergonomic / overmold	Cushioned grip, tired hands	Ergonomic canes
Knob and animal heads	Dress canes and making a statement	Animal handle canes

Derby handle

A derby handle curves forward over the shaft and ends in a small hook. Your palm rests on top while your fingers wrap the front, which makes it secure and comfortable for everyday walking. The hook lets you hang the cane on your arm or a table edge. It is our most popular handle and comes on wood, carbon fiber and designer canes.

Fritz handle

A Fritz handle is shorter and rounder than a derby, with a gentle curve that rests in your palm. Because it spreads pressure across more of your hand, it is a popular choice for people with arthritis or a weak grip. It is also easy to hook over a forearm.

Crook handle

The crook, sometimes called a tourist or hook handle, is the classic rounded J shape. It is easy to hang over your arm or the back of a chair, and natural wood crooks have a traditional look. Your weight sits slightly behind the shaft rather than directly over it, so many people prefer a derby or offset handle for heavier daily use.

Offset handle

An offset handle bends forward so the grip sits directly over the shaft. Your weight goes straight down through the cane, which many people find more stable and easier on the wrist. Offset handles are common on adjustable aluminum canes and on quad and tripod canes.

Palm grip handle

A palm grip, also called an anatomical or orthopedic grip, is molded to the shape of your palm so pressure spreads across the whole hand. Palm grips are made for either the right or the left hand. Order the version for the hand you will hold the cane in, which is usually the hand opposite your weaker or injured leg.

Ergonomic and overmold grips

Ergonomic grips are shaped to fit the hand, and overmold grips add a soft, cushioned layer over the handle. Both reduce pressure points and are a good choice if your hands get sore or tired.

Knob and animal head handles

Round knob handles and cast animal heads are mostly about style. They are popular for dress canes, collectors and conversation pieces, but they give less palm support than a derby or Fritz handle, so they suit lighter use.

Still deciding?

Read Best Walking Cane Handles for Arthritis, check our sizing guide, see our walking cane FAQs, or call us at (888) 311-9255 and we will help you choose.