The walking stick is used as an aid in walking. It has assisted people ranging from the fittest of hikers and walkers, to the physically disabled and balance impaired, and to the occasional walker and collector of sticks. It is a tool to help those who are balance impaired or disabled for support or mobility. A walking stick or cane can ease muscle strain by distributing your weight more evenly . It is almost like a third leg easing the pressure on a bad knee or a weak muscle.
The first walking sticks were probably cut from tree branches. Even today some of the custom canes use the same methods for originality and uniqueness. Now canes come in a seemingly endless assortment of colors, shapes, sizes, and materials. There are myriad types of handles, grips, 
lengths, and accessories, even walking sticks with seats. They are made from wood, aluminum, steel tubing, graphite and composite materials. Besides the common drug store variety of canes with the crook handle, there are canes with handles made from cast sculptures, exotic woods such as ironwood, cocobolo, ebony or rosewood. There are handles that are decorated with precious metals such as gold or silver.
Walking sticks are used by hikers and mountain climbers to help maintain balance and test footing. There are also collectors with large collections of different canes and walking sticks.
If you are a hiker, why do you need a walking stick?
- - A walking stick or cane makes a weapon if you are confronted by a vicious dog or strange person.
- - If you do any wading you need to probe the ground ahead and determine the depth.
- - When hiking in poisonous snake country you can probe before stepping over a log or other obstacle where a snake might be hiding.
- - On steep grades a walking stick will help you to maintain balance and keep you from sliding.
- - A walking stick will help you over a fallen tree on the trail.
- - If your trail follows a cliff edge or ravine, it will help prevent a fall.
- - It will help keep you from falling on narrow foot bridges or slippery planking.
For centuries the blind have been using canes and walking sticks for mobility purposes. The traditional white cane is the symbol of blindness. A blind person can use his cane in any public place and he has the right-of-way in crossing any street or road. It is illegal in most cases for a person who is not blind to carry a white cane. Another option for the blind is the guide dog which affords greater safety and security for the user because the dog can warn him or unforeseen danger.Modern technology has developed electronic laser canes or travelling aids which use laser beams or ultrasound for use by the blind.
There are canes for women, canes for men, custom walking canes, folding canes, medical support canes, adjustable length canes, palm-grip canes, hiking and walking sticks and staffs. Also there are canes for special occasions. Don’t forget the quad cane which puts four feet on the ground.