To select the proper length of cane, seek the advice of a healthcare professional and take your measurements according to following method.

Before getting started make sure you have the assistance of a second person to take the measurements.

Step 1:
Stand up straight with your regular walking shoes on (the kind you will wear when using your cane) and your arms loosely at your sides.

Step 2:
Have the second person measure the length from the floor to the first crease of your wrist. The length you determined this way tells you the ideal length of your cane from the bottom to the top of its handle.

If your cane is an ideal fit your elbow should be bent at an angle of about 30° when you hold it in your hand while standing.

Should you intend to wear different styles of shoes (different heights of heels) while using your cane, please consider buying a cane that is adjustable in height.

Note: This is only a rough guide to determine the ideal length of walking sticks. A healthcare professional can offer more individualized advice.

Always remember, if in doubt order the cane a little bit longer, try it out, and if necessary trim it a little bit shorter. You can always shorten your cane but it cannot be made longer.

Canes that are ordered cut to size are considered personalized and cannot be returned. If you would like us to cut your cane to size please take your time determining the proper length or trim it yourself. The process of trimming can be done with a wood saw or a hack saw depending on the material of your cane.

If you are unable to take measurements before ordering the cane (ordering as a gift) do not order a cane cut to size. Order the cane, take the measurements, and then trim it yourself. Please refer to our section about Shortening a Cane.

Return to Top

Shortening a cane is actually quite easy. You may order your cane cut to size from us, you can trim it yourself with a wood saw or a hacks saw (depending on material), or you can take it to your local home ware store and ask them to trim it for you. Almost all home ware stores will do this for you for a small fee or even for free.

When shortening your cane please keep the following in mind:

1. A cane can always be shortened but it cannot be made longer once it is cut to size. If in doubt leave the cane a bit longer and try it out before cutting it too short.
2. Remove the rubber tip by twisting it off the cane. The tip sits tight on the shaft but by applying a few drops of a lubricant (e.g. WD-40) it can be easily removed.
3. Shorten the cane with a wood saw or a hacks saw (depending on material of the cane) with a flat cut.
4. Reattach the rubber tip to the shaft.

Note:
Some styles of walking canes cannot be shortened. If this is the case, you will be mentioned in the product description of that particular product.

Return to Top