Today, people who have mobility issues can turn to a quad cane for assistance. In the past, such devices were not available or considered necessary. Walking sticks have been used for centuries as assistive devices. They were designed, often with a V-shaped head to act as a crutch. Although those used by the lower classes in times past consisted of a forked tree branch, this did not hold true for those who were wealthy. They could hire someone to create a walking stick with flare and style. Some often turned to the sometimes strikingly elegant model of the Irish walking stick to aid them in walking with greater ease, although it also did add a certain flair an ordinary device did or could not.
The Elaborate Irish Walking Stick
An Irish walking stick played many roles for the wealthy. It helped them walk the streets or stroll through the parks with swagger and style. A heavy knobbed walking stick could also act as protection against attacks by thugs and other rogues. In the late 18th and early 20th centuries, many gentlemen also carried sword canes. These were hollowed out wood or metal walking sticks in which a spring mechanism ensured the hidden sword did not appear until required.
Aluminum Quad Canes
Today, sword canes are banned but metal canes do exist. Although not a defensive weapon, the aluminum quad cane does provide adequate protection for you against spills and falls. These quad base canes also give you a sense of stability that an ordinary Irish walking cane cannot.
The ability of the quad cane to perform so well is the result of several changes to the original cane or walking stick. A quad cane is:
* Constructed of the lightest, durable material possible – aluminum
* With four feet, this cane is designed for greater stability – a great help if you are not as sure on your feet as you once were
* Rubber caps placed on the four feet make an aluminum quad cane more secure and, by extension, you more sure footed
The quad base canes come in two different types: small (narrow) base design lets you to go faster; a large (wide) base side means a slower pace but you gain increased stability. Either way, you are ready to make your move in any direction. All it takes is purchasing the right type of modern walking stick – the aluminum quad cane available from cane suppliers such as Irish Walking Sticks.
