Walking staffs

[Reynolds, Laurie]

I know there is a wide range of opinion on walking sticks.  My own 50+ year
old knees greatly appreciated the use of two collapsible walking sticks,
particularly on muddy descents.  I particularly like the fact that the
handles are "ergonomically placed" so that my hand/wrist/arm did not get
messed up.  The sticks tucked easily into bungee cord attachments on the
side of my pack and were generally not a pain at all when walking on level
ground(we also used them frequently as clothes line substitutes when draped
between two chairs or some other creative placement).

As far as transporting the sticks, I have twice followed this procedure -- I
check them in the airport in a large sturdy mailing tube. (It is correct
that post 9-11, they cannot be brought on board).  This web site has general
information on outdoor equipment and airplane security.
http://www.abovethetreeswilderness.com/geartran.htm ) Upon arrival in
Madrid, I take out the sticks and place in the tube a few things that I want
for post-camino time in Santiago and beyond (basically one nice set of
clothes).  They are rolled up and actually come out of the tube a month
later looking pretty good.  I send the tube to the hostal in Santiago where
I have a reservation and the proprietors hold on to the package till I
arrive.  Then I don't have to worry about finding another tube for checking
my walking sticks on the return trip.
Regards, Laurie

-----Original Message-----
From: Lindsay & David [mailto:lobstertrapaMIDMAINE.COM]
Sent: Monday, June 09, 2003 8:06 AM
To: GOCAMINOaPETE.URI.EDU
Subject: Walking staffs


Dear all,

We (four of us from Maine) are walking the Camino in October, Burgos to
Santiago. We are now gathering our gear.

It has been mentioned that the walking staff is an essential component. Is
it ceremonial and emblematic or, in fact, useful? I have done a fair amount
of walking in my day, and never seemed to need a staff.

IF a staff is a must, what would you recommend? How tall, of what wood,
decorated or plain? One of my companions will celebrate a birthday in July,
and I would like to make/find him a staff.

Thanks for your help.

David Loxterkamp