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Struggling with balance? If so, a good cane can make all the difference, transforming shaky steps into confident strides. Whether you’re recuperating from an injury, fresh out of surgery or just need a little more support, a cane can help you move confidently through your day. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, canes are the go-to walking aid for managing mild balance and stability issues for short- or long-term use. Canes can help boost your confidence and independence and keep you moving.
«Canes are generally used by people with balance problems and mobility issues and have become essential medical equipment around the world, especially in hospitals and clinics where patients need them after surgeries or accidents,» explains Calum Fraser, CEO and owner of Advantage Physiotherapy. He highlights that canes are particularly useful following leg injuries that impact movement patterns or gait or for people with chronic diseases affecting their lower limbs, like arthritis.
However, selecting the perfect option from the vast array of canes available can be challenging, especially when the best choice for one person may not be ideal for another.
So, to help you make an informed decision, we spoke with experts, including nurses, senior aid consultants and physiotherapists. We also evaluated product reviews and ratings to determine the top cane options across various categories, including the best walking cane for balance, the best walking stick, the best collapsible cane and the best cane with a seat.
Continue reading to find our top recommendations and expert tips for selecting the perfect cane.
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Best overall cane
Honeybull
Cost: $30 | Height: 37 in | Type: Foldable quad tip | Handle material: Rubber | Shaft material: Aluminum | Weight: 1.33 pounds | Base type: 4
When it comes to finding the perfect cane, the Honeybull Foldable Walking Cane stands out as the best overall option. It’s sturdy and foldable and features a heavy-duty, quad-tipped base with pivot action, allowing you to position it exactly as needed for optimal balance. Whether moving from a seated position or leaning to reach a shelf, this cane offers superb support. The ergonomic handle guarantees a strong grip, ensuring you maintain your stability.
The Honeybull cane is an all-terrain walking aid, making it suitable for various surfaces, including snow, grass and gravel. The pivoting head is another handy feature, making navigating stairs a breeze.
This cane has nearly 26,000 reviews, and nearly 90% are four or five stars. One Amazon reviewer shared, «This cane is sturdy, stable, lightweight, easily adjusted. As advertised, the foot piece bends and compresses slightly when I walk, making the stride more natural and giving me confidence.» However, if you opt for the black version, be warned that it can be tricky to find in low light!
- Collapsible
- Can hold up to 250 pounds
- Pivoting tip for extra balance
- Some reviews suggest the base squeaks
- Reviewers say that it does not always stay standing when not in use
More canes we like
KingGear
Cost: $19 | Height: 37 inches | Type: Offset handle | Handle material: Rubber | Shaft material: Aluminum | Weight: 1 pound | Base type: 4
If you’re looking for a sturdy, well-balanced cane, this KingGear walking cane is an excellent choice. The offset handle provides solid wrist support, while the pivoting quad base offers superior traction. At just $19, it’s a cost-effective product that makes moving around more accessible following surgeries or during injury recovery.
«This was great for recovering from surgery — the flower-foot moves as you walk and is more stable than a single post, plus it stands up so you have less likelihood of dropping it and having to pick it up!» says one satisfied Amazon reviewer.
- Lightweight
- Shock absorbing tip
- Ergonomic handle
- Some reviewers say the base is too thick
- May not be suitable for people over 6 feet tall
Carex
Cost: $20 | Height: 38 inches | Type: Derby | Handle material: Rubber | Shaft material: Aluminum | Weight: 11.84 ounces | Base type: 1
This derby-style walking cane is a top pick for tall individuals, adjusting to heights up to 38 inches with the push of a button.
One Amazon reviewer said, «I am happy with the cane, it is solid, lightweight and well made. Telescoping height adjustment with twist tightening systems means that it is tall enough for me (6’5) and it doesn’t wiggle or click between the two telescoping pieces.»
Boasting over 3,500 reviews and an impressive 4.7-star rating, this cane is praised for its sturdiness and quality construction. The latex-free, ergonomic handle is designed for both left- and right-handers, and the cushioned grip helps absorb shock and reduce wrist fatigue.
The reviews are mixed on the anti-slip tip, though, with some users finding that it wears out quickly.
- Soft, ergonomic grip
- Anti-slip tip
- Adaptable for right- and left-hand users
- May be too big for more petite people
- Cannot be returned via Amazon
HealthSmart
Cost: $35 | Height: 38 inches | Type: Offset quad | Handle material: Rubber | Shaft material: Aluminum | Weight: 1.8 pounds | Base type: 4
When you need extra stability, a quad-tipped cane is a reliable choice. And this one from HealthSmart is as durable as they come. Made from high-quality material and able to support up to 250 pounds, this solid cane also stands up on its own and doesn’t tip over.
If you need an extra boost, the offset handle supports moving from sitting to standing. One Amazon reviewer said, «My wife needed radiation treatment following chemotherapy, which left her weak and unsteady on her feet. I bought her this cane and it worked well for her. She used it to stand up from sitting and to walk without falling or stumbling, which had happened before she got this cane. It is light to use and provides excellent stability. I highly recommend it.»
- Supports up to 250 pounds
- Quad tip provides greater stability
- Offset handle helps transition from sitting to standing positions
- Some users may find it heavy
- May not be suitable for people over 6 feet tall
Drive Medical
Cost: $36 | Height: 34 inches | Type: Cane with seat | Handle material: aluminum and foam | Shaft material: Aluminum | Weight: 2.5 lbs. | Base type: 4
If you have limited mobility, a cane with a built-in seat, like this one from Drive Medical, is a great choice for when you’re out and about .You can use it as a quad-tipped cane when folded or as a convenient seating option when opened. This is particularly handy when running errands or attending events where seating may not be readily available — a built-in seat enables you to sit down and rest as needed, rather than trying to remain standing if you’re tired or feeling wobbly. The quad-tipped design and sturdy aluminum tubing also help increase stability, while the vinyl-tipped feet offer traction.
One thing to keep in mind is the seat is intended to be straddled, which some users say isn’t very comfortable for extended periods. That said, it still gets good marks from its users for offering a flexible seating option when on-the-go. «I needed something portable to take to the casino in Atlantic City when I take my wheelchair-bound mother-in-law to play the slots. She’s there for a few hours and I can’t stand that long and can’t take up a slot seat (I don’t play). So with this I can sit Mom at the end of a row and then sit next to her on this cane/chair and help her,» shares one Amazon reviewer.
Also, note that the cane isn’t height-adjustable, so make sure you know what height cane you need before purchasing this option.
- Reasonably priced
- Folds and opens easily
- Comfortable seating
- Heavy
- Not height-adjustable
HurryCane
Cost: $33 | Height: 37.5 inches | Type: Folding | Handle material: Rubber | Shaft material: Aluminum | Weight: 1 pound | Base type: 3
When you need a high-quality cane with all the bells and whistles, but that also folds down easily for travel and storage, this HurryCane fits the bill. The patented «WhisperFlex» base features a sturdy, three-pronged tip with a flexible «joint» at the connection point with the shaft. This joint moves almost like your ankle would, allowing for a more natural range of motion as you walk or move. The underside of the base also features cross-hatched gripping tips for added traction whether you’re on concrete, gravel or grass.
With more than 23,000 Amazon reviews and a solid, 4.5-star rating, it’s a popular pick with shoppers. A happy Amazon reviewer wrote, «Great cane, I’ve been using it daily for nearly a year. It’s convenient to keep in a bag or the car, folds and unfolds easily, and can stand on its own so it’s easy to stow next to you when sitting at a restaurant or browsing in a shop. It’s always within easy reach. The triangle base is very stable and makes the gait very comfortable.»
However, some people report that the cane doesn’t stand easily on its own as advertised.
- Large, grooved handle gives secure grip
- Wide base
- Holds up to 350 pounds
- Flexes at the base to make walking more natural
- Some reviews say the cane starts to creak as it ages
- Hard to replace rubber stoppers if they come off
- Doesn’t stand up on its own as well as advertised
rehand
Cost: $29 | Height: 37.5 | Type: All terrain, collapsable | Handle material: Nylon and rubber | Shaft material: Aluminum | Weight: 1.1 lbs | Base type: 1
If you happen to be a little wobbly on your feet, but you don’t want your balance challenges to slow you down, the Rehand Walking Cane can help you stick with your favorite outdoor activities, even if your mobility isn’t quite what it used to be. This reliable option features heavy-duty construction with an ergonomic, soft grip handle and an all-terrain shock-absorbing tip. If you’ll be walking on uneven terrain, this can help lessen the impact on your muscles and joints.
The collapsible design also makes it ultra-portable, so it’s ready whenever you are — you can store it in your purse, wheelchair bag or glove compartment. Not to mention, it’s a favorite with Amazon customers, maintaining a 4.7-star rating with almost 10,000 reviews.
«We walk on horse trails that are up and down with lots of rocks, tree roots and uneven ground.. I need stability in some areas and at 83 I don’t want to fall. The walking stick helps in the areas that I’m not comfortable with,» shares one reviewer.
- Shock absorbing tip
- Steady and stable on a variety of surfaces
- Lightweight and collapsible
- Reviews suggest rubber handle may start to wear over time
- Not safe for those with latex allergies
Brazos
Cost: $37 | Height: 41 to 58 inches | Type: Walking stick | Handle material: Wood | Shaft material: Wood | Weight: 1 pound | Base type: 1
If you want a cane that doesn’t scream, «cane!» a walking stick may be your best choice, particularly if you’re reasonably mobile and just need a little added support. This Brazos Rustic Wood Walking Stick is made by skilled American woodworkers who individually cut the wood and kiln-dry, sand and varnish each walking stick into beautiful works of art.
Of course, walking sticks aren’t quite the same as canes that are intended to be used as medical devices — they lack the ergonomic handles and rubber safety tips that can help improve day-to-day mobility. Consider this option only if you’re looking for a little added stability when you’re out taking a hike.
For instance, one Amazon reviewer found they can now go on longer walks thanks to this stick, saying «It has also recently saved me from a couple of slip and falls as in our neighborhood we’ve had some recent heavy rains. Most of the sidewalks are covered in mud and I caught myself twice doing a slip instead of a step. Very grateful that both times, didn’t come close to going down and didn’t slip enough to hurt my back either. Certainly a win-win for me.»
- Nine wood finish options and four height options
- Built-in compass
- Solid wood, crafted in the U.S.
- Non-adjustable
- May be too heavy for some users
StrongArm
Cost: $80 | Height: 40 inches | Type: Offset cane | Handle material: Foam rubber | Shaft material: Aluminum | Weight: 1.8 lbs | Base type: 4
What distinguishes this StrongArm cane is its innovative patented design, which shifts the pressure from the wrist to the forearm, reducing strain when rising from a seated position. This feature makes it perfect for those with weak or painful wrists, who may find using a traditional cane more difficult.
The price is higher than most other canes, so that may give you pause if you’re watching your budget. That said, reviewers on Amazon are generally pleased with the purchase, with one saying, «It’s perfect!!! You get the support from the strongest part of the arm: the forearm. And, the flexible base is genius because you never know where you’re going to put it down with each step or at what angle. I never have to worry about being off balance because of it, or not getting the support I need because I’m not placing the cane in the right angle or position on the floor every time.» They added, «Even my PT and OT have been impressed with it. Only downside is the price, but if you can afford it, it’s worth every penny and then some!»
- Extends longer than most canes at 40 inches
- Self-standing base
- Ergonomic design shifts weight from wrist to forearm
- Several color options
- Costly
- May not be ideal for shorter individuals
Types of walking canes
When purchasing a cane, it’s essential to know what options are available and how they may benefit your specific needs. Consider the following types:
Single point canes
Single point canes are perfect for providing basic support and maintaining balance. Their lightweight design makes them easy to maneuver and is ideal for mild stability issues and everyday use. They work well on most flat surfaces but lack the sturdiness of tri- or quad-tipped canes and can’t stand upright on their own.
Quad canes
Quad canes are helpful for providing greater stability thanks to their broader base. They offer extra support and are especially useful on uneven surfaces or for those with significant balance concerns.
Tripod canes
Tripod canes have a slightly more compact base than quad canes, but offer a similar level of added stability when compared to single point canes. They are effective for balance and stability issues and are suitable for people recovering from injuries or surgeries.
Offset canes
Featuring an angled shaft, offset canes help distribute weight more effectively and improve wrist alignment. This makes them a comfortable choice for extended use, especially for those with weak wrists, arthritis or joint pain in the hands or arms.
Folding/travel canes
These canes are ideal for anyone on-the-go. They can be folded up or broken down, allowing them to be stored in a bag when not in use. They offer the same support as a standard cane while being far more portable.
Seated canes
Seated canes come equipped with a built-in seat, allowing you to rest whenever needed. They’re particularly useful for those who tire easily or need frequent breaks, offering increased independence and confidence when away from home.
Benefits of using a cane
«Canes help people with balance while standing or walking. They’re often helpful for people with arthritis of the hips or knees, balance issues or new injuries,» says Christopher Norman, a nurse practitioner with the National Council on Aging (NCOA).
Canes offer numerous advantages to users, including:
Enhanced balance and stability
Reduced pain and joint pressure
Support for walking post-injury, surgery or stroke
Boosted confidence and independence
Prevention of falls
Relief for arthritis
Support during hiking and outdoor activities
«Canes can be used to improve balance, reduce fall risk, enhance confidence and help folks maintain their independence longer,» says Milicia McDowell, DPT, a physical therapist, certified exercise physiologist and vice president of operations at Gait Happens. «They are used for all types of ailments such as balance problems, a weak lower body, difficulties with [maintaining an] upright posture or for use after a stroke, surgery or other degenerative conditions like Parkinson’s, dementia or Alzheimer’s.»
Factors to consider when making a walking cane purchase
Selecting a cane involves multiple considerations.
«While choosing a cane, it is important to find one that provides proper support and stability. This means checking the weight capacity, ensuring it’s suitable for the user,» says Fraser, who adds that the length of the cane should also be adjustable. When standing straight with your arm extended toward the floor, you should be able to comfortably grip the cane in your hand with the tip of the cane in contact with the ground — your elbow should be bent no more than 20 degrees, and you shouldn’t have to lean over to grip the handle.
He also suggests that users consider comfort as well as durability. “There should be a comfortable grip; handles can be made of different materials including ergonomic shapes, which reduce hand strain for users,» adds Fraser.
Finally, think about your budget. «Basic canes typically cost $10 to $20, while specialty canes can range from $30 to $100 or more,» notes Norman.
How we chose the best cane
To curate this top selection of canes, we first sought insights from physiotherapists, occupational therapists and doctors on what makes a superior cane. We then evaluated more than 40 popular options, delving into customer reviews and ratings to reflect users’ firsthand experiences.
I also have some cane experience myself. My mother just had her second knee replacement this year, and I helped her research canes for her recovery. Many of the canes on this list were products that we researched and considered together.
FAQs
What size and height walking cane do I need?
The Arthritis Foundation advises that the top of a cane should align with the crease in your wrist. If the cane is too short, it can cause you to slouch or slump forward. Conversely, if it is too tall, it won’t provide adequate support. A correctly fitted cane helps alleviate pressure on the lower joints and body, enhancing stability and comfort.
How do you use a walking cane properly?
Once you’ve chosen a cane, learning how to use it properly is crucial. According to the Cleveland Clinic, start by holding your cane on your stronger side. For example, if your left knee is injured, hold the cane in your right hand. If both sides are weak, try using your nondominant hand.
Keep your cane at your side, not in front of you, for optimal support and balance. «Move the [cane] forward simultaneously with your affected (weaker) leg for balanced support while sharing your weight evenly between the cane and your other leg,” instructs David Chandler, a registered nurse and vice president of clinical services at Senior Helpers. He suggests practicing with a friend or family member at home to assist if you encounter any difficulties.
«Be careful on uneven ground and stairs, and use handrails,» Chandler advises. «Regularly inspect the cane for damage, especially the tips on the base.»
How much weight can a walking cane hold?
Although most canes can support up to 250 pounds, the weight limit varies by brand and model. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications and product descriptions before making a purchase.
What is the most stable type of cane?
Quad canes are the most stable type of cane, thanks to their broad bases that evenly distribute weight over a larger area. This design increases stability and makes them highly maneuverable while also allowing them to support more weight.
