Nordic walking poles can be purchased with two rubber paws.

The not fixed shock absorbing rubber paws fit over the metal tips, for use on hard surfaces like tarmac and sidewalks. The paws efficiently absorbs the poles force when walking on hard surfaces. It is suggested that you use the rubber paws on the end of the poles, so there is no danger of harm to the grass and pathways. A hard bodied paw is not very good for Nordic walking, where more elastic paws are preferred . But you have to know that the paws regulary wear out, and have to be replaced when there is little surface material is left. Substitution paws can be found as spare parts at your neighboring sport shop. I found replacement paws over the internet direct from different stores or makers.

I purchased them a few times on ebay. As I am mostly walking on asphalts and sidewalks (about 5 times a week 5 kilometers each time ). I can tell you from my own knowledge that the elastic paws have a very short life of about a month, and then they must be replaced. Recently I acquired rubber paws made by an American producer who too is making Nordic walking poles without gloves . Those Paws are a little more stiff but are holding on already 3 months.

Now I am coming to the title of different colors Walking Poles I use :

I found out that naturally I am walking with poles when they are not parallel to my body. The lower part with the rubber paws attached are more away from my legs than the grips (this helps with the pushing ). This is causing the rubber paws to be worn out unevenly : more in the part close to the legs than the part pointing away from my body .

This will cause the paws to be worn out much earlier on one side , compare to the other side .

Now, if I will swap between the left hand pole and the right hand pole, the paws will each day be worn on a different side . This will make equal the wear and lengthen the life to your Walking Poles-Paws . How will I know which pole was yesterday in my left hand, and in the right hand ? Of course, by the different colors of the poles. Another good reason not use Nordic walking poles with special (left and right) gloves !