Ponder,

These look like a very nice design. I may look into one, I love a good staff. I try to avoid walking fast :-), but the shorter staff sure makes that easier. I grip the staff high enough to make the swing suit my pace.

I like a long staff, it allows you to change the length (switchback where pole goes from high side to low, etc.) with the relaxation of the hand. I have several wood ones (which I love) but the one I use most is a Crawford Survival Staff that was custom made in 3 pcs. Breaks down to 22 inches for air travel and is a 6' pole when I get there. (airlines are a pain).

The best,

Jerry