Walking Sticks

On Sticks, Our Trusty Sidekicks 

The simple walking stick is more than just an aid , it is a symbol , as far as walking is concerned a pair of hiking sticks is more balanced and useful , but are seen as sporting equipment , few people give way to someone with a pair of trekky sticks , you are just considered a rather odd hiker in the middle of a town , so when travelling I have to fall back on the single walking stick as a symbol of recognition , people see a stick and it registers as someone with difficulties and so behavior changes as a consequence, often they are a pain in the butt for getting in the way , or falling to the ground as one tries to manage things that require 2 hands , but there is now an infinite variety of choices available with useful gadgets integrated , but never quite everything you need , for example ... integrated torch with wind up recharge , magnet , foldable ,alarm, flip down extra handle for getting up , rechargeable functions with USB , fold down seat ,fairy lights, aesthetically pleasing , and so on , I would like a James Bond walking stick that does everything , all with the press of a button , fold ,unfold ,lights , siren , smokescreen , self defence, built in computer, umbrella , seat , self righting mechanism and so on ,someone on youtube has even started self defence lessons with a walking stick .




I have accumulated quite a collection of sticks (see photo) each with their own functions ,the one that converts to a seat is a great idea , but it's too short ,despite the fact that I ordered the longest size possible I still have to walk lopsided, chinese sizes .
My favorite is the golden coloured one , it's foldable , has alarm lights , a sonic alarm , an integrated torch that is rechargeable either by usb or wind up handle , and you can change the rechargeable batteries .Sadly it is falling apart now and they don't make them anymore , there are similar types around but they are not up to scratch and lack one or two of the components .
The ones that stand up alone are a great idea , but the ground has to be perfectly level or they too come crashing to the ground as you sort out your passport and tickets , much to the disdain of whoever is behind the counter .Sometimes someone will help you pick it up , sometimes not .
If there are any multifunctional walking stick designers out there I will be quite happy to be a tester and give a review.